Raptor Education Foundation
Bringing knowledge for preservation of ecological diversity by promoting environmental literacy through live, non-releasable raptors and public programs.
About Raptor Education Foundation
The Raptor Education Foundation (REF), established in 1980 and based in Colorado, operates Colorado’s first and oldest raptor sanctuary and education program. REF houses permanently impaired, non-releasable raptors as long-term ambassadors and delivers school, public and professional programs that connect audiences to wildlife and habitat conservation.
REF is organized as a 501(c)(3) scientific and educational nonprofit and partners with community organizations, parks, and conservation groups to deliver hands-on learning, field training, and public events. The Foundation emphasizes environmental literacy rather than wildlife rehabilitation; it provides sanctuary care and education when rehabilitation is not possible.
Notable achievements
Colorado’s first raptor sanctuary
Founded in 1980, REF is recognized as Colorado’s earliest established raptor sanctuary and education organization, with decades of continuous public programming.
Longstanding community partnerships
Sustained collaborations with local governments, park systems and community programs (including Mile High United Way affiliation and local partners) that expanded outreach and education across the region.
Public conservation initiatives
Developed high-visibility conservation and awareness efforts (including specialty motor vehicle license plate programs and public newsletters) that have raised funds and public engagement for raptor conservation.
At a glance
- Total assets
- $11K
- Annual revenue
- $173K
- Tax status
- 501(c)(3)Public charity
- EIN
- 84-0828277
- Location
- Denver, CO
- Website
- www.usaref.org
- On Mahalo since
- November 2025
Financial figures from the IRS Business Master File, the IRS’s registry of tax-exempt organizations.
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