Telluride Foundation Turns 25! |
Twenty-five years ago, Ron Allred and Joe Morita established the Telluride Foundation with 13 founding friends, including General Norman Schwarzkopf who joined Allred as co-chair of the Board. Within the first year, the Foundation gave $700,000 to 50 nonprofits and soon thereafter established its first initiative in early childhood education, Bright Futures, now an independent nonprofit. Additionally, the Good Neighbor Fund, a safety net program for the workforce was launched, as well as the "Volunteer of the Year", an annual award to recognize outstanding community leaders. Our original mission and fundamental values of inclusiveness, innovation, resilience, and collaboration haven’t changed.
Today, we are doing more than ever to meet our communities’ most critical needs, and thanks to our generous donors, we have been able to deploy $120 million into the region. We’re starting the year with a new logo, an anniversary campaign to highlight our work through the years, and plans to introduce a new website. Additionally, we are gathering donor input and engaging the board in a strategic visioning process to help shape the Foundation’s future. Although we may change our look, website, and funding priorities, some things will stay the same – our strong commitment to community and Making More Possible!
Why is the Telluride Foundation so passionate about the work we do? Helping others is firmly rooted in our DNA. Our founder expressed it best: |
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"When people ask me about my involvement in the region and what I’m most proud of, they might assume it’s building a world-class ski area. But in actuality, it’s knowing that because of the Telluride Foundation, there’s a safety-net for people in need; there are scholarships for kids going to college and participating in after-school programs; and there are efforts to help develop the economy and increase jobs and opportunities in our neighboring communities. Everything I did was a work of love."
Ron Allred |
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Telluride Foundation Awards $1.2M in Community Grants |
The Telluride Foundation awarded $1.2M in community grants to regional nonprofits. These grants were distributed to organizations working every day to improve the quality of life in the communities of Nucla/Naturita, Norwood, Telluride, Rico, Ridgway, Ouray and everywhere in between. In addition to these awards, the Foundation deployed an additional $5.5M through its initiatives, scholarships, donor advised fund grants, and other programs , making our total impact $6.7M for 2024!
The Foundation received a record 93 applications seeking almost $1.8M. Of the $1.2M awarded, $125K will support three capital projects, including the Cimmaron Athletic Field in Ridgway, Ouray Housing Trust’s rental project, and the Telluride Aids Benefit’s headquarters. Grant awards ranged from $1,400 to $157,500, with 42% funding health and human services; 24% to early childhood development and education; 12% to arts and culture; 12% to athletic groups; and 10% percent to the environment/animals. This distribution, with an emphasis on health and human service, has remained relatively consistent over the Foundation’s grant making history.
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Workforce Housing: Down Payment Assistance Program Gets A Huge Boost
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Since 2019, the Foundation’s Housing Opportunity Fund has provided over $260K in small grants and forgivable down payment assistance loans, empowering 100 families to purchase a home or secure a new rental. Recognizing the ongoing need for affordable housing solutions, we are thrilled to introduce an innovative new program aimed at offering even greater support to our dedicated local workforce on their journey to homeownership.
Starting this March, the Foundation will offer low-cost down payment assistance loans of up to $50K to eligible members of the regional workforce. This initiative, 18 months in the making, is designed to provide support across the Foundation’s entire service area, which includes San Miguel and Ouray counties, west Montrose County (Nucla and Naturita), and the Town of Rico in Dolores County. Thanks to the generosity of community members and support from regional governments and taxing districts, some applicants may qualify for additional funding, with a maximum of $100K available. Eligibility will be determined based on income limits, home purchase price criteria, and other factors. Funded through a revolving loan fund, this program ensures that as loans are repaid, the funds will be reinvested to support other regional workforce members.
We are proud to offer this opportunity to families and individuals who make invaluable contributions to our region. For more information or to support this vital program, please visit our website or contact Elaine Demas at elaine@telluridefoundation.org.
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SMRC Advocates and Educates |
The San Miguel Resource Center provides advocacy, support, and education on domestic and sexual violence, providing the only 24-hour crisis helpline in the area. Their services include emergency safehousing, financial assistance, and resource referrals. As part of it's mission to educate the community, SMRC was thrilled to recently bring athlete, actor, and activist Kali Reis to Telluride for a free community event. Kali’s story is one of resilience in the face of violence and hardship.
Looking ahead, SMRC is excited to introduce Safe Bars, a collaboration with the hospitality industry. Safe Bars certification has been proven to reduce the incidence of unwanted alcohol-related sexual aggression, and it benefits the hospitality industry by ensuring that patrons have a safe night out. SMRC will train hospitality staff on bystander intervention and will provide ongoing training and education to reduce the incidence of sexual violence in our restaurants and bars. With the uncertainty in government funding, SMRC is doubling its efforts to secure private donations with the creation of multi-year giving plans and an endowment program to ensure that these critical services continue. Every dollar pledged helps provide safety, support, and healing for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. |
Experience Telluride Nordic Bliss |
The Telluride Nordic Association (TNA) is having a banner season, with one of the earliest starts to grooming in recent memory. Even with intermittent snowfall, Trout Lake has offered incredible skiing for months, with Priest Lake swiftly following suit. One of the most anticipated winter events is the annual Butch Cassidy Ski Chase & Nordic Fun Day. This year's outing takes place on February 8th at Priest Lake Matterhorn campground, and has divisions for the whole family. Bust out your classic or skate skis for this fun family-friendly event. Register today.
TNA aims to spread the joy of nordic skiing by making the sport accessible to everyone. TNA offers no-cost skiing based entirely on voluntary contributions from users. TNA is also grateful for the support of the Telluride Foundation and other organizations that help cover operating costs.
For skiers looking to advance their skills as the season progresses, Telluride Nordic Center is offering an Intermediate Skate Ski Clinic, starting on February 13th. Also, the Snowcats program, designed for young skiers, starts the first week of February, and is offered to K-2 youth. As always, the Nordic Center offers ski rentals, skate rentals, skate sharpening and more. |
Welcome Judy and Vaughan Hancock |
Home away from Telluride: Flower Mound, TX Favorite Festival: Telluride Blues & Brews (Photo proof!) Favorite Ski Run or Trail: Plunge or Log Pile (Dynamo rarely disappoints) Best Après: Gorrono's (on mountain) and Oak (in town)
The Hancock family began visiting Telluride in 2008 and instantly fell in love with the area’s uncommon beauty and rustic charm. In 2019, they purchased the infamous purple house on Main Street and laid down roots. As part-time residents, the family has taken advantage of the natural playground surrounding Telluride, spending days camping, skiing, hiking, and attending music festivals. Their son even celebrated his wedding reception at the Transfer Warehouse.
When asked what makes Telluride particularly appealing, Judy and Vaughan emphatically said, “The community!”. They find the community welcoming, where people look out for each other and share a strong sense of belonging and common values. These characteristics contribute to why they chose to support the Telluride Foundation. As our newest pledged donors, the Hancocks explained, “The Foundation takes a balanced approach to support nonprofits and its own initiatives. The community impact achieved through initiatives like Tri-County Health Network, Workforce Housing, Education, Environment, and Economy (Telluride Venture Network) makes the region more sustainable and vibrant." Additionally, impressed with the stewardship of donor funds, they shared, “At the Foundation, your donation truly matters”.
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The New Human Genome Code: A Key to Curing Cancer, Alzheimer's and Aging February 20, 2025 |
Telluride Foundation and Telluride Science have joined forces to bring Dr. Vadim Backman, Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Northwestern University to present his latest work. A study he led revealed how the human genome operates like a self-learning computer, forming structures that store cellular memories. The breakthrough could revolutionize treatments for cancer and Alzheimer's. Read an interview with Dr. Vadim in Telluride Inside and Out.
5:00pm Donor Reception | 6:00pm Presentation & Panel Discussion Free & Open to All Telluride Innovation Center |
| Adaptation: Protecting Our Communities From the Threat of Climate Change February 27, 2025 |
As wildfires, hurricanes, and hail storms become more frequent and severe, how can our communities prepare and adapt to this new reality? Exclusive sneak peek of a new documentary film exploring unique experiments and research by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety. Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion with filmmakers and wildfire experts. Check out the film teaser. Panelists include: Matthew Mikkelsen, Co-Director, Adaptation
Steve Hawks, Senior Director for Wildfire (IBHS)
Jamie Gomez, ED, West Region Wildfire Council
Kate Harris, Chief Deputy Commissioner, Colorado Division of Insurance
4:30pm Donor Reception | 5:30pm Sneak Peek & Panel Discussion Free & Open to All Sheridan Opera House |
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Donor First Tracks February 28, 2025 March 14 & 28, 2025 |
Bundle up and get ready to enjoy the mountain an hour before the resort opens to the public. After getting in a bunch of runs, mingle with fellow donors over a delicious breakfast at a slope side home.
7:45am |
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Register for the 5th annual uphill race benefiting the Peter Inglis Avalanche Education Fund (PI Avy Fund). Skin, snowshoe, microspike, or split board from the base of the gondola to San Sophia Station. Prizes will be awarded for top finishers and best costume. All racers receive beanies and the first 25 registrants are entered into a raffle to win a swag bag with Arc'teryx backpack, hat, hoodie and Rumpl blanket. After the race enjoy complimentary sliders and beverages at Oak before a special torch light parade.
5:00pm Base of Gondola |
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Fueling the Future: The Hydrogen Economy
March 19, 2025 |
Another colaboration between Telluride Science and Telluride Foundation features a panel discussion led by Plamen Atanassov, distinguished Professor at UC Irvine. Exploring the transformative potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source, he will delve into the latest advancements in hydrogen production, storage, and fuel cell technologies. Atanassov will share insights into how these innovations are paving the way for a sustainable energy future, addressing global challenges such as climate change and energy security.
5:00pm Donor Reception | 6:00pm Panel Discussion Free and Open to All Telluride Innovation Center |
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We have a new Courtney! Courtney McEleney has joined the team as Donor Engagement Manager replacing outgoing Courtney (Groves), who has returned to her roots in tech sales. Courtney brings with her a wealth of experience in community leadership, special events, and fundraising development. She is excited to meet donors at upcoming events and on chairlift rides during First Tracks. She will also make time for coffee chats around town so don’t hesitate to introduce yourself ! Welcome to the Foundation team Courtney.
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| Help us grow the Telluride Foundation
If you know a community member who may be interested in becoming a donor or a volunteer please make an introduction!
Contact Jason at jason@telluridefoundation.org. With your help, we can make more possible! |
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About The Telluride Foundation is committed to enriching the lives of our community members by investing in initiatives and supporting nonprofits in the region.
telluridefoundation.org |
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