PARK CITY, Utah (Sept. 20, 2007) – It’s no fun sleeping out in the cold. Without the right gear, that is. That’s why, when Backcountry.com learned that the National Ability Center needed equipment for its 12 annual recreation programs that include camping, the Park City-based online outdoor retailer stepped up.

On Sept. 20, John Bresee, president of Backcountry.com, and a posse of his employees delivered a truckload of ALPS Mountaineering gear (eight tents, 25 sleeping bags and 25 sleeping pads) to the center. The gift, valued at $5,000, will provide the National Ability Center with its own camping equipment, freeing program organizers from the need to rent gear each time they plan a camping trip or an on-site program that includes sleeping under the stars.

“Up until now, we’ve had to rent the necessary equipment from the University of Utah Outdoor Recreation program each time we’ve planned a camping trip or on-site camp out,” said Meeche White, executive director of the National Ability Center. “With this gift, we will have everything we need at our fingertips. This donation will save us about $500 per season, plus the time it takes to drive to Salt Lake and back to pick up the rentals.”

“At Backcountry, we’re all about gearing up and getting out,” said Bresee. “The National Ability Center is an amazing organization that empowers people with disabilities to get out there. We are happy to help by providing them the gear to do it.”

The donation came just in time for the NAC’s last camping trip of the season. Ten adult campers will break in the camping equipment this weekend (Sept. 20-22) during a camping and rafting excursion in Moab, Utah.

About the National Ability Center
Founded in 1985, The National Ability Center is a non-profit organization that provides affordable sports and recreational experiences in a nurturing environment for people of all ages and abilities. These experiences build self-esteem, confidence and physical development, thereby enhancing active participation in all aspects of community life. As a national role model, the Center promotes the concept of ability through integration, public awareness and education. For more information on the National Ability Center call (435) 649-3991 or visit www.DiscoverNAC.org.

About Backcountry.com
Park City-based Backcountry.com is an online retailer of performance outdoor adventure gear and apparel for men, women, and children. The e-commerce site carries more than 400 brands in various categories, including backpacking, camping, hiking, climbing, trail running, paddling, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and adventure travel.

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