Community Call Center
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1885 Durango, CO 81302
Community Call Center
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1885 Durango, CO 81302
Southwest Search and Rescue Foundation (SWSARF) is a non-profit organization that assists the Search and Rescue teams and other agencies around the region through a collaborative approach that leverages economy of scale, best practices and strategic partnerships.
By leading an association of SAR teams, SWSARF helps the volunteers obtain access to state-of-the-art mission-critical equipment, training and support infrastructure, and facilitates community programs to increase public awareness of backcountry safety.
Southwest Colorado is home to some of Colorado’s most challenging backcountry. Across 11 contiguous counties that span 16,000 square miles there are (20) Fourteeners, which comprise more than 35% of the entire State’s highest peaks. Long-term residents, tourists and 2nd home owners all enjoy the unforgiving mountains, backcountry trails, treacherous snowscapes and rushing white water rivers.
Backcountry adventurers are on their own, except for the dedicated members of the Search and Rescue teams across the State. These all-volunteer dedicated professionals assist each County’s Sheriff’s Department in search and rescue operations and public safety in high-altitude backcountry and challenging technical settings.
Every SAR team shares the same need – to have the necessary equipment, training and support infrastructure to be able to quickly locate and save the life of an individual in peril. SWSARF works to improve collaboration in advanced training and sharing of skills and resources so we can ensure the safety and well-being of every resident and visitor who seeks to enjoy our magnificent mountains.
Southwest Search and Rescue Foundation relies on private donations to fund the Foundation, which goes to support the dedicated SAR volunteers with meals, advanced training, safety equipment, and mental/physical wellness. Please visit https://www.swsarfoundation.com/ for more information on the Foundation. Thank you!