DONATE
Terry devoted his life to helping others in all parts of the world. If you’d like to contribute to his legacy, please consider making a gift to one of the organizations he most cherished in his honor. Below is a list of suggested organizations, but it’s by no means an exhaustive list of the work he did, the issues he cared about or the people he touched.
Terry and longtime friend Paul Charlton in Washington DC this year, advocating for climate and health policy.
University of Colorado Living Well Foundation Climate Gift Fund: Terry spearheaded the University of Colorado Climate & Health Program’s innovative Diploma in Climate Medicine. This intensive 250-hour program trains clinicians to lead and advocate on issues at the nexus of climate change and health. His visionary leadership will continue to guide the Diploma moving forward. Donations will help offset costs for clinical providers who face financial barriers to participation.
Donate by Check:
University of Colorado Foundation
13001 E. 17th Place, Suite WG112
Mail Stop A065
Aurora, CO 80045
In the memo line please note: "Fund D-0033887" and "In memory of Dr. Terry O’Connor"
Gifts can also be made in Terry’s memory online at https://giving.cu.edu/fund/write-fund. In the comment section, please specify that your gift is intended for designation number D-0033887, along with any notes you wish to share with the family.
Terry training at the KCC in Phortse, he is in the second row, far right.
Khumbu Climbing Center (KCC): The Khumbu Climbing Center (KCC) was launched in 2003 and has become a successful vocational program for high altitude guides. Each winter for two weeks, technical climbing skills are taught along with English language, mountain safety, rescue, and wilderness first aid. Dr. Luanne Freer, who oversees the Everest base camp ER, attests that KCC skills and knowledge are saving lives at the roof of the world. Nearly one thousand Nepali men and women have now attended KCC since its inception.
Terry was involved with the KCC for years, volunteering his time and expertise to train high mountain guides in advanced rescue techniques. The Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation (ALCF) funds the KCC in Phortse, Nepal. You can make a donation online or mail a check to ALCF, PO Box 6666, Bozeman, MT 59771. To specify your donation is in memory of Terry, include a note with your check.
Terry pictured at work in the St. Luke’s Emergency Room, where he was a Physician for 13 years.
St. Luke's Wood River Foundation Terry O'Connor MD Endowment: Your gift to the Terry O’Connor, MD Endowment Fund will carry forward Dr. O’Connor’s legacy by funding health initiatives in the Wood River Valley. These health initiatives will align with Dr. O’Connor’s array of interests and compassionate work in our community.
Select the Designation in the drop-down menu: Terry O’Connor MD Endowment
Click the “in memory” box: Terry O’Connor
Performing high altitude rescue while climbing Everest.
Responder Alliance: The Responder Alliance works with individuals and teams to train resilience in the face of long-term and traumatic stress. Their curriculum covers proactive tools and best practices to manage risk of stress injury and burnout.
As Blaine County EMS Director, Terry worked to develop mental health programs aimed at addressing the trauma first responders regularly face.
The Juniper Fund: The Juniper Fund supports and empowers families and communities impacted by the loss of Himalayan high-altitude workers. The Juniper Fund provides cost-of living grants, vocational training, and business grants to help empower families to create sustainable businesses to replace the lost income of their loved one and continue to serve as essential supports within the fabric of their community.
Terry believed deeply in the mission of the Juniper Fund. In 2016 ran the TransRockies ultramarathon to raise money for the Fund.
Helping rebuild after 2015 Nepal Earthquake
Sawtooth Avalanche Center: Friends of the Sawtooth Avalanche Center is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides direct support to our local avalanche forecasting center. Their mission is to support the Sawtooth Avalanche Center and promote life-saving avalanche safety information, education, and outreach throughout southern and central Idaho.
Terry partnered closely with the Sawtooth Avalanche Center for years. He submitted frequent professional snow observations, accompanied Forecasters on field days, and engaged in lengthy conversations about snow. Terry also spoke at multiple regional Snow and Avalanche Workshops.
Out on a field day with a local avalanche forecaster.
Health in Harmony: Our mission is to reverse tropical rainforest deforestation to halt the climate and nature crises.