It looks like Mother Nature believes in supporting good causes. A snowstorm is predicted to hit Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort on Saturday, just in time for the ski area’s first Benefit Day of the season Sunday.

A portion of lift ticket sales will benefit local nonprofit organizations.

The four organizations chosen to be the beneficiaries this year are:

Second Wind, which provides therapy for youth struggling with suicidal thoughts;

Adult day care at Our Place, which provides a respite for caregivers dealing with family members who have dementia;

Durango Early Learning Center, which provides early childhood development for 70 children;

The Durango Education Center, which provides GED diploma training, English as a second language class and programs for adults, children and youths.

The four organizations will split the money raised Sunday and on the other three Benefit Days planned for this season – Jan. 11, Feb. 8 and March 1. In the 2013-14 ski season, the four selected nonprofits split more than $16,700, Oyler said.

Discounted tickets are $45 for adults, $32 for teenagers 13-17, $25 for kids 6-12 and $35 for seniors 65 and older. Avid skiers can buy a four-Benefit Day punch pass for $125 at the ticket office on the mountain and DMR’s Bodo Park office, 327 South Camino del Rio in Centennial Plaza.

DMR also is collecting gently used winter apparel and gear to be donated to those in need. Donations can be dropped off at the ticket office Saturday and Sunday. Skiers showing their tickets also can take advantage of discounts on child care with a reservation, as well as on items at Purgatory Sports and Alpine Clinic. A coupon, available on DMR’s website, must be presented to take advantage of the discounted lift tickets.

Meteorologist Chris Cuoco with the Grand Junction office of the National Weather Service said Purgatory probably will get at least 3 to 5 inches, with accumulation piling up Saturday afternoon and evening.

abutler@durangoherald.com