Letter | Wautier: Celebrate our volunteers
It is National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and at the Vail Valley Foundation, we have so much to celebrate.
As a nonprofit organization, we could not do what we do without the dedication of our volunteers. In 2025, 1,428 volunteers gave a combined 34,714 hours of service across our events and programs. That kind of commitment is extraordinary, and it is what makes this community so special.
As we look ahead to summer, we are actively looking for volunteers to join us for some of the valley’s most beloved events! At the GoPro Mountain Games (June 4–7), opportunities range from course support and sustainability efforts to guest services and beyond. Back for its second year, the NextGen Volunteer program allows teens ages 14–18 to get hands-on experience, develop skills, and build their resumes.
The Vail Dance Festival (July 31 – Aug. 10) welcomes volunteers as venue greeters, ushers, artist transportation support, and more.
For the Youth Power summer camp lunch program (June 15 – July 3), even a single one-hour shift helps us deliver hot, nutritious meals to nearly 800 kids valley-wide.
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We are also always looking for volunteers at the Vilar Performing Arts Center and the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. These world-class venues rely on community support to create unforgettable summer experiences.
Whether you are a longtime local, newer to the valley or just visiting for the summer, there is a place for you on our crew and a role that fits your interests.
Volunteering is fun, rewarding and a great way to connect with others while making a difference in our valley! To learn more and sign up, visit vvf.org/volunteer.
Among our many wonderful volunteers, I also want to give a special thank you to our 2025 Volunteers of the Year, Debby and Harry Jasper. Their tireless dedication to the Vail Valley Foundation and so many other organizations across our community is inspiring.
To every person who has ever raised their hand to help: thank you. You are the reason we are able to empower possibility in our community.
Deb Wautier
Volunteer and operations manager
Vail Valley Foundation
