A Drone Takes Search and Rescue to New Heights in Cortez | LOR Foundation
In-Progress Health

A Drone Takes Search and Rescue to New Heights in Cortez

Cortez
  • Local Champion: United Search and Rescue of Montezuma County
  • Date Funded: September 2, 2025
  • Grant Amount: $19,882

Cortez residents and visitors rely on Montezuma County Search and Rescue when they find themselves in trouble, but the team currently lacks the technology for efficient overhead searches. The group’s volunteers recognized this gap and knew they needed new equipment to help them locate missing people more quickly, so they reached out to LOR with an idea. LOR’s funding will help Montezuma County Search and Rescue purchase a thermal imaging drone that meets federal aviation requirements. The advanced drone will enable the group to conduct more efficient searches and and reduce rescue times, while also delivering emergency supplies to stranded individuals.

Contact our community officer in Cortez. Meet Nicci Crowley
More Health Solutions
Health / Taos Winter Gear and Hot Meals Support Taos’ Most Vulnerable Residents
Local Champion:
Iglesia Casa De Oracion
Date funded:
August 28, 2025
Grant Amount:
$8,962
Health / Taos Service Dog Supports Healing for Taos Community Members
Local Champion:
Community against Violence (CAV)
Date funded:
August 18, 2025
Grant Amount:
$6,496
Health / Libby Comedy Workshops Help Libby Residents Share Their Stories and Find Support
Local Champion:
Lincoln County Health Department
Date funded:
August 12, 2025
Grant Amount:
$15,000
Health / Libby “Paint it Pink” Fun Run Promotes Breast Cancer Screenings in Libby
Local Champion:
Cabinet Peaks Medical Center
Date funded:
August 12, 2025
Grant Amount:
$5,000
Health / Cortez A Mobile Food Truck Brings Meals and Mentorship to Cortez Youth
Local Champion:
God's DOGS
Date funded:
August 12, 2025
Grant Amount:
$28,200
Health / Taos Wind Phone Establishes Sacred Space for Grief and Healing in Taos
Local Champion:
A Taos Local
Date funded:
August 7, 2025
Grant Amount:
$7,476
See All solutions

Share an Idea

If you have an idea for improving quality of life in Cortez or Monte Vista, Colorado; Lander, Wyoming; Libby, Montana; Questa or Taos, New Mexico; or Weiser, Idaho, use this form to start a conversation with us.

"*" indicates required fields