About Friends of CAIC

Our story

The Friends of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center is a 501(c) organization that was created to support the CAIC, while contributing to avalanche awareness and education throughout Colorado. Since 2014 we have invested just over $1.8 million into avalanche safety. This money has funded Know Before You Go, developed avalanche safety videos and signage, created outreach for new and existing users, built new web and mobile applications, and supported the CAIC’s forecast operations.

Our Mission

The mission of Friends of CAIC is to support avalanche forecasting and education throughout the state of Colorado.

Friends of CAIC and the CAIC: Who does what?

Key FY21 Accomplishments

Forecasting and Operations

Gave $200,000 to directly support CAIC's forecasting operations which helps fund the daily forecasts that the backcountry community depends on

Education and Awareness

Launched online KBYG awareness classes in response to the pandemic, committed to funding KBYG 3.0 along with partner avalanche centers, which aims to become the AIARE Awareness Curriculum and launched broadcast and billboard PSA's in response to dangerous periods

Technology

Contributed over $20,00 to a new weather station and an expanded drone program, while continuing to fund improvements to the mobile app and website

Who supports the forecast?

4000+

Active Members

550+

Annual renewing members

75+

Business Partners

Local Government Partners

Staff

The Friends of CAIC team works remotely across the state of Colorado.

Aaron Carlson

Executive Director

Brian Rodine

Marketing and Events Director & Trailhead Program Manager

Katie Thibideau

Development Officer

Kia Soden

Membership and Development Coordinator

Sam Gifford

Education and Outreach Coordinator

Contact Us

Info@FriendsofCAIC.org

Board of Directors

The all-volunteer Board of Directors provides insight and guidance on our mission and organizational direction.

Markian Feduschak

Board Chair

Brent Brown

Board Vice Chair

Bill Mueller

Board Treasurer

Jonathan Lantz

Board Member

Rusty Perry

Board Member

David W Clark

Board Member

Samantha Killgore

Board Member

Heidi Ruckriegle

Board Secretary

Ethan Greene

Non Voting CAIC Liason

Circle of Friends

This team of supporters lends their voice and reach to drive avalanche safety efforts, build membership, and expand the presence of the CAIC and Friends of CAIC across the backcountry community.