The annual World Cup at Deer Valley Resort is a blast, and it’s no wonder that many volunteers come back year after year. “It feels like a big family reunion,” shares Jeanette Bonnell, who manages volunteers for the 2025 event.
This year, an impressive 75% of previous volunteers returned, a jump from the usual 60%. This marks the 23rd year that Deer Valley has hosted the World Cup, and it’s clear that the sense of community plays a big role in why so many come back.
A total of 158 volunteers are working throughout the resort this year, contributing to course building, security, medical support, hospitality, and press duties. They not only get a cozy fleece and coat as a thank-you, but they also earn perks that can be used for Deer Valley lift tickets after completing at least three shifts. The action starts weeks in advance with the construction of courses.
“I began recruiting volunteers on January 29,” says Bonnell. “That’s when we start building the moguls and aerial courses.” Many returning volunteers have been part of the World Cup for over a decade, drawn back by a love for the skiing community. Some are former competitors, while others enjoy witnessing the excitement of a major skiing event.
Jacque Dillon Gayer, a six-time volunteer, agrees. “The camaraderie is amazing. It’s such a fun atmosphere.” This year, she was joined by her daughter, Lauren, who was volunteering for the first time.
“I’m really enjoying it,” Lauren says. “It’s neat to meet people from all over, and some even come from other states. Hearing their stories adds to the experience.”
Lauren’s first day on the slopes was nerve-wracking. As a volunteer on the aerial setup, she dove right into the action, shovel in hand. “Chopping the hill was a lot of work, and I was a bit intimidated at first. But everyone was super helpful and welcoming,” she recalls.
Bonnell knows the value of community firsthand. She started as a volunteer in 1998 and became the manager five years ago. “I’ve watched many volunteers return year after year, sharing stories about their families as they grow,” she says.
Doug Gilbert makes the trip from New York every year for his 18th World Cup at Deer Valley, bringing years of expertise to the moguls course. “You simply pick up a shovel and keep it in hand all day,” he says, whether it’s for clearing landings or prepping for jumps. He enjoys mentoring new volunteers, especially on safety.
Jackson Libby recently moved to Park City from Maine, eager to engage with the World Cup experience. He found that while the community is tight-knit, newcomers can easily integrate. “Once you show you can keep up with the hard work, everyone is really welcoming,” he explains.
Despite all the fun, Libby emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism. “We know we’re there to work, even when it’s exciting,” he notes, recalling a moment when he had to help an athlete retrieve gear after a jump.
At the end of grueling 14-hour days, volunteers come together to celebrate their hard work. Kathy Durrans has been volunteering since the early 2000s and currently focuses on hospitality. “It’s a family and community thing. Even after 14 hours, we laugh, sing, and eat together,” she says.
Durrans thrives on problem-solving the unique challenges that arise each year. “I enjoy making sure everyone has a good experience,” she says, finding joy in helping others connect through their shared love for skiing and the mountains.
“It’s beautiful how events like this bring diverse groups together,” she adds. “It shows the unity we can have around a common purpose, like our love for the outdoors.”
