The Summit Foundation proudly announces its commitment to Summit County's thriving community through a remarkable distribution of a total of $1.8 million in 2023 grants to empower local nonprofits. This substantial support is a testament to our dedication to bolstering these organizations as they navigate the challenges of hiring and retaining staff, coping with escalating costs of essential resources, and addressing the evolving needs of our community's workforce.

Building upon our legacy of impact, this fall’s grant cycle is set to infuse $1,144,455 into 58 deserving local nonprofits, ensuring sustained progress across our four focal impact areas: Healthy & Safe Communities, Youth Development and Education, Arts & Culture, and Environmental Stewardship. Additionally, the Summit Foundation grants reach our neighboring Kremmling, Leadville, and Fairplay communities, recognizing that many of our working families live outside the county.

Highlighting this cycle, over half a million dollars will be dedicated to nurturing the aspirations of Summit County's youth, shaping their future. Emphasizing inclusivity and opportunity, this initiative aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, and diversity of educational programs and sports activities for children of all ages. The Foundation proudly champions initiatives like the innovative careers in construction program recognizing diverse pathways to success beyond a traditional four-year degree.

Our resolute backing of early childhood education centers remains unwavering, coupled with a strategic push to enhance access and affordability in afterschool and summer camp programs through expanded services offered by local nonprofits. Additionally, support for youth sports organizations seeks to eliminate barriers to participation, ensuring equitable access for all.

Kelly Renoux, Chair of the Grants Committee, sheds light on the diligent process driving these impactful decisions: "Each year, The Summit Foundation meticulously assesses and engages with every applicant, delving into the intricacies of their requests. Through our Grants Committee's rigorous review, we not only allocate funds but also identify avenues for further support through The Summit Foundation’s Nonprofit Resources for Grantees program."

Undoubtedly, this monumental contribution to our community wouldn't be achievable without the support of over 3,500 businesses and individuals who generously donated to The Summit Foundation this year. Notably, our ski area partners - Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain Resorts - have played a pivotal role in enabling these impactful grants.

Furthermore, the Foundation's donor-advised funds bolster the grants awarded, providing additional financial aid to needy nonprofits. This philanthropic backing has allowed many nonprofits to meet the increased demand for community service.

The Summit Foundation’s fall grant cycle is a testament to our commitment to enriching Summit County. Last year, we returned $4.5 million in grants, scholarships, and special initiatives to the community, with 2024, our 40^th year, projected to surpass this benchmark. In times of adversity, the Summit Foundation and our dedicated donors remain steadfast in our resolve to effect positive change.

Expressing gratitude for this remarkable support, Jeanne Bistranin, Executive Director, Summit Foundation , remarked, “The Summit Foundation is immensely thankful for the generosity that empowers us to inject over a million dollars directly into our community each fall. Grants are integral to our mission, uplifting the invaluable work of our local nonprofit community.