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.

Stewarding Promise: Investing in the Future of Colorado

5 business events that made the Springs

A historical review of five business events that shaped the city of Colorado Springs, one of which highlights our founder, Spencer Penrose.

Women's History Month - Celebrating Julie Penrose

Empowering Nonprofits

Dan Cardinali, president and CEO of Independent Sector, elaborates on how big bets can help redistribute wealth and rebalance the power dynamic between donors and nonprofits. Mr. Cardinali discusses El Pomar's Regional Partnership program and celebrates the power of listening to local communities.

Work That Hits Close to Home

Doug Palmer, Fellowship Class of 2018, reflects on growing up in the North Region and his work with our Regional Partnerships Program.

Regional Partnerships - A Letter from the Director

Livable communities to work, play, and stay. A Letter from the Director 2018 marked the 15th year for Regional Partnerships, the perfect opportunity to step back, reflect on accomplishments, and think strategically about how the program can be most impactful moving forward.

Voices of the Internship - Hitting the Right Note at Penrose House