NEWRY – Actor and comedian Lenny Clarke will return to Sunday River Jan. 25-27 to host his annual Ski Classic benefiting The Genesis Fund. Participants will enjoy three days of skiing, two nights of lodging at Sunday River’s Grand Summit Hotel, receptions, a banquet, fireworks and a comedy show.

This will be the third year that Sunday River has hosted the Lenny Clarke Ski Classic. More than 350 guests attended the first ski classic in 2006, raising $70,000 for the Genesis Fund; last year’s event raised more than $100,000 for the charity. This season, guests will enjoy superb conditions, courtesy of 100 inches of natural snow to date and Sunday River’s snowmaking system.

“The combination of terrific skiing, a warm and welcoming resort, hysterical comedians and a compelling charity makes this an extraordinary weekend, said Kathleen Marchi, director of special events for the Genesis Fund.

“What makes it truly special, however, is Lenny Clarke’s dedication to The Genesis Fund. You feel it whether he’s chatting with the patient family representing The National Birth Defects Center; mingling with guests, including local celebrities and former pro athletes; or performing his comedy show exclusively for us.”

Founded in 1982 by Murray Feingold, The Genesis Fund has raised more than $20 million for New England area children born with birth defects, mental retardation and genetic diseases. More information is available at www.thegenesisfund.org.

Clarke was born, raised and educated in Massachusetts and began his comedy career on the stand-up circuit in Boston. He has since acted in many television series and most recently appears in the recurring role of Uncle Teddy on the FX drama “Rescue Me.” Clarke has also acted in films and believes in using his talents to benefit others.

For more information on participating in the Lenny Clarke Ski Classic, call Kathleen Marchi at 781-890-4282, or visit www.thegenesisfund.org.