Whether its gathering coats for the annual LiftUp Coat Drive, or funding programs for youth, The GroupGives is committed to the mantra that sets Steamboat Springs apart from most towns. Residents say that sense of community is the number one reason that they come to the Yampa Valley.

“A lot of times it’s beyond just helping financially,” said Jessica Whalen, an agent and The GroupGives board member. “Sometimes organizations just need an extra set of hands and between our staff and agents, we can usually rally when needed.”

Supporting Those in Need

The GroupGives focuses heavily on supporting people in need, especially children and education-based initiatives. “If we can make a difference in five young lives we will, but if an extra $100 could help 10 kids, we will always go with helping more,” Jessica said.

To date, over $550K has been donated to local causes ranging from mental help initiatives to educational support.

“We’ve been able to buy a computer for the first time and add two more white boards to our recently expanded teaching space,” said Kim Schultz, Co-founder of Steamboat Reading. The organization, which provides tutoring, assessments, advocacy, and support, has 10 part time tutors and recently hired a Program Director. “We want to make sure we can offer services to all families regardless of their financial situation,” Schultz said. “It can be the difference between a child learning to read or continuing to struggle.”

Helping Out a Variety of Non Profits

Earlier in the year, 12 agents switched street shoes for bowling shoes and took part in the Junior Achievement Bowl-A-Thon. For the first time since COVID-19, the event was back and bigger than ever with two shifts to accommodate entrants. “It was great to have a night together to benefit something so worthwhile,” Jessica continued. Junior Achievement gives students an opportunity to learn from members of the business community and get a head start on areas of financial literacy and career readiness.

Steamboat Dance Theater, a non-profit which is nearing its half century mark of existence in the valley, was another recipient of funds. The GroupGives donated money towards costumes for the annual dance showcase and scholarships for young dancers to fulfil dreams.

Enriching the lives of locals is paramount to the board’s mission. Many events have become yearly recipients for support including Ski for Parkinson’s, which raises funds for awareness, support groups and free exercise classes for those living with Parkinson’s and their care partners.

Coming Up Next

This month, The GroupGives will once again sponsor the Festival of Trees, an annual fundraising event for the Tread of Pioneer’s Museum, the epicenter of Routt County history.

November is a time to give thanks for all we have, and no place can feel the power of giving more than this little corner of the Colorado Rockies.