For 15 years, the Colorado Group Realty Charitable Foundation has supported several Yampa Valley nonprofits. In 2017, the Foundation decided to change its approach to giving; the result was the most active year in its history. Joee Rain Pavlica, a Foundation board member, describes the recent shift in philanthropy: “Instead of just writing checks, we’re now more active in the community; we want to make as big of an impact as possible and join in on the action with ideas and manpower.

In 2017, the Colorado Group Realty Charitable Foundation donated $35,000 to 28 local nonprofits, by far the Foundation’s biggest year of giving. Steve Goldman, Foundation chairman and CGR’s CEO, touts the generosity of the company’s real estate agents. “It’s in the company DNA to give back; our agents graciously donated more than ever this year.” One of the Foundation’s signature events is the Parade of Homes, a summer fundraiser that takes participants on tours of illustrious properties. The parade this year raised $11,000 for Steamboat Adaptive Recreational Sports (STARS). “It’s amazing to have an event that showcases our mission.” STARS’ Executive Director Julie Taulman said.

Another major event for the Foundation is the Annual Coat Drive for LiftUp of Routt County which brought in over 500 coats this fall, serving approximately 125 families. The Foundation also supported LiftUp’s inaugural greenhouse project by granting funds for a climate battery. Jeff Modesitto from LiftUp said what makes Colorado Group Realty good at giving is how willing the company is to get to work and stay connected. “They’re always out and involved in the community.” Kate Nowak, Executive Director of Routt County United Way, praises Colorado Group for continually making significant hands-on contributions to United Way’s Holiday Exchange Market and Day of Caring. “Colorado Group is a critical partner in helping us accomplish all the good work that we do here.”

Foundation Board Member Matt Eidt added, “Partnering with so many wonderful organizations like the Humane Society, Junior Achievement, The Steamboat Arts Council, and the Optimist Club (to name just a few) is why we do what we do. We are proud that we made such an impact this year.”