VOLUNTEER

JOIN THE TEAM! VOLUNTEER FOR THE STIFEL BIRDS OF PREY WHEN THE ATHLETES RETURN TO BEAVER CREEK IN DECEMBER 2026!

Join us December 3-13, 2026, for both men’s and women’s races across two action-packed weekends. With seven World Cup races scheduled on the legendary Birds of Prey course, the 2026 event will be the largest Birds of Prey World Cup festival in history! 

Interested in volunteering? Volunteer registration for the December 2026 event is now open. We have two dedicated Volunteer Crews offering a wide range of volunteer opportunities and a truly unique event experience!

Learn more about the available volunteering opportunities by clicking on the boxes below and sign up to be part of this unforgettable adventure:

RAPTOR CREW — Off-Course Positions

TALON CREW — On-Course Positions

For students ages 14–18, our NextGen Raptor Volunteer Program offers a dedicated opportunity to get involved. Registration opens September 15, 2026.

Already signed up?

SEE YOUR VOLUNTEER PORTAL

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CONTACT US

By volunteering for the Stifel Birds of Prey, you are volunteering for the Vail Valley Foundation (VVF). The VVF is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide leadership in arts, athletics and education, and address community needs to enhance our valley as a place to live, work and visit. Our volunteers play a critical role in our ability to achieve our mission. To date, we have over 1,600 active volunteers and each year, as we continue to grow and expand, so does our need for additional support.

 

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE STIFEL BIRDS OF PREY VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

All Volunteers are required to sign up for a minimum of 4 shifts to be eligible for this year’s Volunteer Benefit Package, estimated at $450.

In addition, Volunteers may sign up for more shifts to qualify for this year’s Volunteer Appreciation Program.

The 2026 Volunteer Benefit Package includes:

  • 2026 Stifel Birds of Prey branded insulated RAB Ski Jacket exclusive to Volunteers
  • Winter beanie with the Stifel Birds of Prey logo
  • High performance Socks
  • Invitation to the Volunteer Parties and social events
  • Breakfast and/or lunch on days you volunteer, if your shift starts before 8:15 AM and/or falls during Lunch hours
  • Free Parking on days you volunteer
  • Discount codes on lodging and transportation for the duration of the event
  • Lift pass for volunteers needing lift access for their daily assignment
  • Surprises from our Sponsors
  • And more!

Volunteers are welcome to sign up for additional shifts to qualify for this year’s Volunteer Appreciation Program:

You’ll receive appreciation gifts as you reach the following milestones:

  • 6-Day Volunteer Appreciation Gift – after completing the equivalent of 6 full days.
  • 9-Day Volunteer Appreciation Gift – after completing the equivalent of 9 full days.
  • 12-Day Volunteer Appreciation Gift – after completing the equivalent of 12 full days.
  • 15-Day Volunteer Appreciation Gift – after completing the equivalent of 15 full days.

This program is our way of recognizing and thanking you for your outstanding time and commitment. Please note:

  • Appreciation Gifts are awarded based on the total number of full-day equivalents you complete during the event.
    • Shifts of over 4 hours count as one (1) full day toward your total.
    • Shifts 4 hours or under count as one-half (½) day toward your total.
  • This is a cumulative program. For example, once you complete 12 qualifying full-day equivalents, you’ll receive the 6-Day, 9-Day, and 12-Day Volunteer Appreciation Gifts.
  • Once you reach a milestone, you’ll receive an email confirming your eligibility, along with instructions on when and where to pick up your Volunteer Appreciation Gift.

Don’t forget to take care of yourself throughout the event. While we appreciate your willingness to take on additional shifts, remember to schedule rest days to recharge so you can stay energized and enjoy your volunteer experience.

It takes hundreds of volunteers to make this world-class event happen, and there are so many ways to get involved! Whether you’re helping behind the scenes, assisting with event operations, shoveling snow, or slipping the racecourse, every role plays an important part in creating an unforgettable race experience.

With so many volunteer opportunities available, it can feel a little overwhelming at first—but don’t worry! We’re here to help you find the right fit.

Learn more about our Raptor Crew (off-course) and Talon Crew (on-course) volunteer roles, registration process, scheduling requirements, and everything you need to know to get started.

Calling all high school students ages 14-18! Join our NextGen Raptor Volunteer Program and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Stifel Birds of Prey event. Explore exciting volunteer roles, build real-world skills, give back to your community, and be part of the crew that makes this incredible event happen. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that will have a lasting impact, on both the event and your future!

Learn more about the program and application process here.

 

Volunteers are responsible for arranging their own lodging and transportation to Beaver Creek.

LODGING

Many returning volunteers make their experience even more memorable by sharing a condo or staying with friends in the valley. If you are looking for group lodging options, or would like to offer a room to another volunteer seeking accommodations, please reach out to us, we’d be happy to help connect volunteers: housing@taloncrew.com.

There are a variety of lodging options available for Stifel Birds of Prey volunteers in Beaver Creek, Avon, Eagle, and Vail, including special rates generously offered by our local lodging partners. Check out transportation.

TRANSPORTATION

Beaver Creek is accessible by both car and air. Many volunteers drive, which offers flexibility once onsite, but we also have tips for those flying in:

  • Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE): Located about 30 minutes from Beaver Creek, this airport offers limited service, with United flights connecting through Denver and American flights from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
  • Denver International Airport (DIA): About a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from Beaver Creek, DIA is a major hub airport with direct flights from many cities. Remain informed of road conditions on I-70 over the passes.
  • Epic Mountain Express offers transportation from both airports to Beaver Creek. As a volunteer with the Stifel Birds of Prey, you are eligible for an Epic Mountain Express transportation code. To receive your code, please email vvfvolunteer@vvf.org.