Volunteers

Our volunteers drive our programs!

Make an Impact—Volunteer with ASPNM


Volunteering with the Adaptive Sports Program New Mexico is a rewarding way to change lives—including your own. Our volunteers often say there’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing outdoor recreation with individuals of all abilities.


Each year, volunteers donate their time, skills, and passion to help ASPNM deliver thousands of adaptive lessons across New Mexico. Whether you’re experienced in skiing, snowboarding, watersports, or climbing—or prefer to lend a hand behind the scenes with special events and projects—there’s a place for you on our team.


We provide ongoing training and support, so you’ll feel confident and connected every step of the way.

Ready to get started? Follow the steps below to become a volunteer.


Questions? Reach out at info@ASPNM.org or 505.570.5710.

WINTER SKI & SNOWBOARD PROGRAM

Each winter, ASPNM’s Ski and Snowboard Program is powered by 200+ dedicated volunteer instructors. Our programs operate at Ski Santa Fe, Sandia Peak, and Pajarito Mountain, serving participants from across New Mexico.


To become an instructor, you must be 18 or older and at least an intermediate-level skier or snowboarder. No previous teaching experience is required! New volunteers participate in four days of intensive, hands-on training, with annual refresher sessions. Training covers disability-specific topics such as adaptive equipment, teaching strategies, medications, and behavior considerations—ensuring our volunteers are well-prepared to support every participant.


Instructors are asked to commit to a minimum of six teaching days each season, with opportunities to volunteer additional days as available. Non-skiing volunteer roles are also offered for those who want to help off the slopes.


Instructor incentives and other key program details are shared during our annual Volunteer Orientation, held each November in both Santa Fe and Albuquerque.

Click here to learn more & get registered to VOLUNTEER during the 2025-26 season!

SPRING / SUMMER / FALL PROGRAMS

During the warmer months, ASPNM offers a wide range of adaptive sports programs—including indoor and outdoor rock climbing, archery, sailing, rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and more. These include multi-week sessions, single-day activities, and overnight events.


Training is provided for volunteers who instruct in summer sports. These trainings are typically held in the spring or early summer, with some larger events include training on the first day.


The best way to stay informed is to watch for our emails or check this page for upcoming opportunities. Registration is required for each event.


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FAQs & Additional Information

Eighteen (18) is the minimum age requirement for instructors leading the adaptive sport/and or recreation activities .

Absolutely! We have plenty of meaningful ways to contribute that don’t require sports experience. From helping with fundraising and outreach to assisting with meals, event setup, and cleanup at summer programs — there’s a place for you on our team. Direct questions to info@ASPNM.org

We’ll guide you through required steps, which typically include SafeSport awareness training, a background check (if you’ll have direct athlete contact), and sport-specific training, which varies from event to event!

Teaching volunteers should have intermediate to advanced skills in the sport they want to teach, along with the physical ability to support participants’ needs and assist for the full session.

Snow sport volunteers are asked to commit to 8–10 days between January and March, depending on program needs and personal schedules. Mandatory training sessions are included in this time.

We understand emergencies happen, but we ask volunteers to commit to all scheduled days. If you must miss a lesson, please notify ASPNM staff as early as possible and, if possible, make a good faith effort to find a replacement. All substitutes must be approved by ASPNM staff.

Yes. All staff and volunteers must wear safety gear appropriate for their activity at all times (e.g., helmet, life jacket). ASPNM staff will communicate the specific gear required for each program.

Your performance will be reviewed periodically to help determine when you’re ready for independent teaching, co-teaching, or shadowing roles. Volunteers are always placed in the capacity that best matches their abilities and experience.

Yes. At the discretion of ASPNM staff and/or the Board of Directors, a volunteer may be released for policy violations, inability to teach effectively, or difficulty working with staff and other volunteers.

Steps to become an ASPNM volunteer

Volunteering with ASPNM is a meaningful way to share your skills, connect with our community, and make outdoor recreation more accessible for individuals with disabilities. Our step-by-step process is designed to prepare and support you so you can volunteer with confidence and make a positive impact from day one.

Complete a Background Check

All volunteers must complete a background check every 2 years using ASPNM's designated company. Sorry - no outside background checks are accepted.



Not sure if you have an active check with ASPNM? Contact info@ASPNM.org to check.


Complete Safe Sport Training

All volunteers who work directly with our athletes are required to complete online Safe Sport Training.  Not required for individuals not in direct contact with ASPNM athletes

Review ASPNM's Policies, Procedures, & Guidelines

Before joining us on the slopes or at an event, please take time to read and understand ASPNM’s key policies, procedures, and guidelines. These ensure the safety, inclusion, and well-being of everyone in our programs and help create a respectful, supportive environment for athletes, volunteers, and families.

Complete your Volunteer Application

Start by filling out ASPNM’s general volunteer application — this helps us get to know you, your interests, and your skills so we can match you with the right opportunities. Some programs and events may also require additional, activity-specific applications to ensure the best fit and proper training for each role.

Andrew Casados

We are heartbroken to share the news that our dear friend, Andrew Casados,  passed away after a long battle with liver disease. Andrew volunteered with the ASPNM ski program for 22 years. Throughout those years, Andrew could always be counted on to be one of the first to arrive on the mountain, excited to share his love of skiing with ASPNM athletes and his fellow volunteers. Andrew always had a warm smile for everyone, and often shared how blessed he felt to be on the mountain amongst friends. We hope everyone will take a moment on the slopes to think of Andrew and appreciate his many contributions to ASPNM. He will be dearly missed by the ASPNM family, and we are wishing his family peace and comfort during this difficult time. A celebration of Andrew's life will be held at a later date. To view Andrew's obituary and/or leave condolences for the family, please click here.