At a time when federal budget cuts threaten programs and initiatives that support our socially and economically disadvantaged neighbors – and that jeopardize health and human services, education, scientific research, the environment, the arts and more – it’s especially important for Boulder County residents to come together, to prevent any potential negative impacts right here at home.
Note from the Chair: Carmen Ramirez
For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of being involved with numerous initiatives and committees that aim to promote diversity, inclusivity, and equity throughout Boulder County. In particular – through the Latino Task Force of Boulder County – I’ve worked to change the view of our Latino community to that of a community asset, and to work toward creating greater economic, educational, political, and cultural opportunities for everyone who calls Boulder County home.
Today, I’m honored to serve as the new Chair of the Community Foundation’s Board of Trustees, bringing to bear my own knowledge and experience to propel the important work of our Community Foundation across a range of issue areas.
At a time when federal budget cuts threaten programs and initiatives that support our socially and economically disadvantaged neighbors – and that jeopardize health and human services, education, scientific research, the environment, the arts and more – it’s especially important for Boulder County residents to come together, to prevent any potential negative impacts right here at home.
By participating in purposeful philanthropy, each one of us can make a difference to advance the common good on our block, in our neighborhoods, and in our communities. Purposeful philanthropy means going beyond a charitable hand-out: it means giving a hand up, investing in our future, and investing in the future of generations after us. And it means addressing the root causes of community issues that necessitate charitable support.
Of course, federal cutbacks in domestic programs that, for example, benefit women’s health, the poor, and the working poor, would require a responsive grantmaking approach to offset those losses. But your Community Foundation remains equally committed to improving circumstances and conditions over time, and I’m continually encouraged to discover the impact of the transformative work of our grantees in tackling local issues – from the environment, and health and human services to the concerns of our LGBTQ community, as well as education, the arts, and a vigorous focus on advancing inclusivity and equity among immigrants and people of color.
While the tenet of “change, not charity” isn’t new, it bears new relevance today: regardless of your chosen issue area, the important thing is that we come together – when each one of us does our part, we accomplish more together than any of us can achieve alone. Whether you choose to make a donation, or offer your time and talent in ways that most resonate with you, I challenge us all to get involved, engage and participate in co-creating a welcoming, caring community in which all residents have the opportunity to contribute to our full collective potential.
