Intern Blog Series: Chase McCleary's Meal with the Penroses

The El Pomar Foundation Internship program offers valuable professional experience to continuing undergraduate students interested in the nonprofit sector. However, this summer’s Interns had a somewhat unusual experience. After a work week filled with meetings, projects and professional development trainings, the Interns prepared to leave Penrose House for some well-deserved rest. However, Friday-evening drowsiness set over them, and instead of clocking out, they accidentally pressed the “travel back in time 82 years” button. Suddenly, the Interns found themselves sharing a table with Mr. and Mrs. Spencer and Julie Penrose, who were about to delight in a delicious 1930s Depression-era meal. Naturally, Spencer and Julie asked the Interns to update them on the evolved state of El Pomar Foundation some 80 years in the future. Here is what Chase said:

Grantee Spotlight: Educating Children of Color

In this Grantee Spotlight we are highlighting the Educating Children of Color organization, which operates numerous beneficial programs and an annual Educating Children of Color Summit, all of which work towards encouraging youth to pursue higher education, supporting teachers in their educational efforts and educating parents on maneuvering and maximizing the post-secondary school experience.

Meet the New Faces at the Penrose Heritage Museum

Penrose Heritage Museum Curator Sarah Rodgers and Assistant Curator Samantha Knoll have only been at the museum for little over a year, but their knowledge and passion for the collection has grown immensely. Now, they want to share that knowledge and passion with guests to ensure they fully understand the interesting history and legacy of Spencer and Julie Penrose.

Reassuring Development in the Valley

Kathy Rodgers, the Economic Development Director of the City of Alamosa, reassures the continued growth and development of the San Luis Valley, including new and prospering businesses, lively community events and celebrations, and affordable housing efforts.

Reflecting on Six Years at El Pomar Foundation

After 6 years of working as the Director of the Fellowship at El Pomar Foundation, recently-departed Devanie Helman shared her thoughts and feelings about the Foundation.

Perspectives from Regional NELP 2019

El Pomar Foundation's Regional Nonprofit Executive Leadership Program assists current and future leaders through numerous development activities. Here are two perspectives, one by an involved Fellow and one by a participant, from Regional NELP's activities in Salida last May.

Northwest Regional Council member Tilman "Tillie" Bishop passes away at the age of 86

El Pomar and the Regional Partnerships Program mourn the passing of longtime Northwest Regional Council member Tilman "Tillie" Bishop.

Pikes Peak Regional Council - A Letter from the Trustees

El Pomar Foundation supports many unique community programs by providing necessary grants and seed money, such as the Veterans Climb program at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center (Mt. Carmel) and the Achieving Competitive Excellence Program at SPEED Track and Field. El Pomar Trustees Judy Bell and Lt Gen Mike Gould (USAF, Ret.) detail the efforts and impact of the Pikes Peak Regional Council's support to these organizations.

From the Penrose Collections: Chinese "Zhong" Bell

Among the many artistically and historically significant pieces Spencer and Julie Penrose collected from their world travels is the impressive Chinese "Zhong" Bell. Currently displayed at the Penrose House, the bell reflects the Penroses' deep appreciation for culture and efforts to bring interesting and worldly pieces to Colorado Springs.

Mental Health – A Colorado Conundrum

Despite being one of the best places to live in terms of physical health, Colorado consistently ranks poorly among the 50 states when considering mental and behavioral health prevalence and accessibility of care and resources. Several of El Pomar Foundation’s 11 regional councils have already designated mental and behavioral health as their grant making focus area, and several other Councils are exploring a similar designation. Aligning with National Mental Health Awareness Month, El Pomar hosted one of its largest convening meetings to date on May 23rd with a focus on mental and behavioral health in Colorado, particularly in the rural regions of the state.

Confluence - El Pomar's 2018 Annual Report

El Pomar Foundation reached several significant milestones in 2018, as we surpassed $500 million in approved grants since El Pomar’s inception and celebrated 15 years of the Regional Partnerships program. The Foundation’s annual report, Confluence, highlights these benchmarks and other grant making and programmatic activities from 2018.

Central Peaks Focuses on Affordable Housing

Given the rapid development and the increased cost of living in much of Colorado, many of El Pomar’s regional councils have discussed the issue of affordable housing in their region. However, due to high costs and the frequent involvement of multiple state, federal and private organizations in one project, many councils have found it difficult to determine how to effectively address the issue. After learning from various community members of the need for affordable housing in their region, the Central Peaks Regional Council elected to allocate funds to a unique project in each of the region’s four counties. While the four projects differ, all aim to increase the availability of affordable housing in their respective communities. Read more to learn how the Central Peaks Regional Council is expanding access to affordable housing.

Philanthropy Roundtable: How to Be a Loyal Local Giver

To get a sense of what it takes to be a loyal, local funder, The Philanthropy Roundtable spoke with friends and members, including Cathy Robbins of El Pomar Foundation.

Pikes Peak Heritage Series - Women in the Backcountry and Boardroom

On March 19th, the Pikes Peak Heritage Series hosted Women in the Backcountry and the Boardroom, a discussion about women’s opportunities, contributions and engagement in the outdoors. Seven female industry leaders shared their perspectives shaped by working on public policy, guiding trips, and pursuing their favorite outdoor recreation activities.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo to Host Annual Run to the Shrine Event

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo hosts its 11th annual Run to the Shrine May 18. The annual Run to the Shrine fundraiser is the only day of the year foot traffic is allowed on the road to the Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun.