We have been humbled and amazed by the support we’ve received from the community so far. Asking for help, especially financially, is pretty uncomfortable for us.
We all want to go to work and safely provide the world-class ski experience that Telluride exemplifies. The last thing we want is a work stoppage.
This fundraiser isn’t just about supporting patrollers - it’s about protecting the mountain, the town, and the people who love this place.
We recognize how a work stoppage on the resort is affecting our community, and we also know how it is to live paycheck to paycheck.
The goal of this fundraiser is to put us in a position to support those most adversely affected by a work stoppage, both patrollers and other departments. Funds would be used to help cover basic needs — **rent, groceries, fuel, child care, medical costs, and utilities** — while we stand up for fair, safe, and sustainable working conditions. We care about this community because we are a part of it.
Today, we need your help.
Despite months of working without a contract, despite showing up every day to ensure the mountain opens safely and on time, patrollers still do not have a fair and livable agreement. We have been proactive, professional, and ready to negotiate.
Telluride Ski Patrollers have shown up in the worst weather, at the most dangerous moments, and at the most critical points of need to keep our mountain safe. We are avalanche experts, first responders, medical professionals, rescue specialists, and the quiet backbone of every safe day on the mountain.
Patrollers always show up in your time of need. Now, we are asking you to show up in ours.
The reality of living in Telluride:
In Telluride the cost of living is 59% higher than the Colorado average and ~75% above the national average.
According to MIT, a single adult in San Miguel County needs ~$26 an hour just to cover basic living costs. When adjusted for the seasonal nature of work in this community (fewer available hours) that number is higher, $37.67 an hour.
In this environment, missing even one paycheck is destabilizing - missing multiple is catastrophic.
Here's where you come in! Consider donating to our fundraiser today
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What Your Donation Supports
100% of contributions will go toward directly supporting the basic needs of those most adversely impacted by a potential work stoppage including:
- Rent & housing support
- Groceries & household essentials
- Utilities
- Transportation & fuel
- Childcare
- Emergency medical costs
- Other essential living expenses
In the event the Telluride Ski Patrol ratifies a contract, any remaining funds will go to supporting causes that aid livability for our region’s workforce.
How You Can Help
✔️ Donate what you can.
Every dollar matters — truly.
✔️ Share this fundraiser.
Tell friends, locals, visitors, and business owners why our Telluride Ski Patrol matters.
✔️ Support Patrollers with your voice.
Your solidarity strengthens our ability to secure a fair contract.
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Together, We Can Support the People Who Keep Us Safe
Please donate today to help ensure that we can stand up for fairness without putting our lives or financial stability at risk.
Thank you for standing with the Telluride Ski Patrol.
Thank you for standing up for the community, for fairness, and for continued safety.
For updates and more information, follow us on Instagram @tellurideprofessionalskipatrol or on our website www.tpspa.org
Fundraising team: Co-organizers3
Telluride Ski Patrol
Beneficiary






