I didn’t expect to learn about the return of beavers to Estes Valley watershed during my summer investments Internship at El Pomar, but that’s exactly what happened on my second Monday at the Foundation.
Growing up in Colorado Springs, I was familiar with El Pomar Foundation’s presence as a grant maker in my hometown but traveling to the North Regional Council meeting in Estes Park revealed the true scope of the Foundation’s statewide impact. Through its Regional Partnerships program, El Pomar empowers local leaders to identify and address the unique needs of their communities. Sitting among passionate changemakers in a church basement reshaped my understanding of what philanthropy can look like in action.
The day began with a scenic three-hour drive to Estes Park. Erica Oakley-Courage, who supports the North Regional Council, filled the time with engaging conversations, from college memories to professional hockey, setting the tone for a day of meaningful connection. Before the council meeting, we stopped at the headquarters for Estes Nonprofit Network, an El Pomar grantee, where we were warmly welcomed by Executive Director, Cato Kraft.
Kraft explained that the Estes Nonprofit Network plays a vital role in strengthening the nonprofit ecosystem of the Estes Valley. As a backbone organization, it provides education, resources, and collaborative opportunities to over 100 local nonprofits, amplifying their impact across the community. Their conference room offered a humble yet inspiring setting for what would become a powerful exchange of ideas.
Around twenty local nonprofit leaders gathered under Kraft’s facilitation to share their work. We heard from organizations focused on watershed protection, volunteer fire services, beaver habitat restoration, and youth tutoring programs, all serious and underfunded issues in the Estes community. Each speaker brought a unique perspective but what united them was a deep passion for their community. Their stories reflected the very spirit and intention of Regional Partnerships.
During this meeting, the vision of Spencer and Julie Penrose was brought to life through the remarkable individuals in the room. The investment of time and energy that these volunteers were pouring into their work showed their dedication to the betterment of Colorado and its inhabitants.
To be part of an organization that funds and fosters this kind of grassroots leadership is a privilege.
Although my title this summer is investments Intern, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to engage with the full depth of El Pomar, particularly through the Regional Partnerships program, which has reaffirmed my belief in the power of community and the enduring relevance of El Pomar’s mission.
