The original idea of Moms on the Mountain, about 20 years ago, was to build a sisterhood for mothers to spend time together through a fun activity. And it still is that, according to spokeswoman Laura Van den Berg. But she says it soon evolved into also being a fundraiser for the Nevada City Schools Foundation. Funding comes in part from the $75 registration fee, along with community donations. And this year, van den Berg says they’ll be hiking at the Sugar Bowl ski resort on Saturday, with two trails available…

click to listen to Laura van den Berg

The Foundation is a nonprofit made up of volunteers who work closely with the district. Van den Berg says Moms on the Mountain has raised more than half-a-million dollars, since its inception, to help local schools with student programs…

click to listen to Laura van den Berg

School technology also benefits. Van den Berg says the focus this year is on a national program called “Girls Who Code”, at Seven Hills School, to get girls more interested in computer programming and sales. She says right now about 80% of employees in the field are male. Registration at Sugar Bowl begins at 8:30am on Saturday with non-moms also welcome. The fee can also be raised through sponsorships. A turnout of around 100 is anticipated, with ages ranging from 18 to 80.