How did you first learn about the Community Foundation Boulder County?
When I moved here in May 1994 from Manhattan, I attended a community foundation event. If you all remember Josie Heath as I do, you remember how inspirational she was in speaking about the value of a community foundation. I was inspired and motivated to both give and help the non-profit organization in any way I could.
What’s the most significant memory you have involving the foundation?
I was astounded by the rains of the Boulder flood of 2013. It affected my north Broadway neighborhood and inundated Linden, scene of the only fatalities. I’ll never forget how quickly the community foundation responded with every type of help… especially raising large amounts of money… just as they did for the Marshall Fire.
I really appreciate how rapidly the foundation can respond to community crises. They are neither a monolithic nor bureaucratic organization that has to follow traditional “processes” before they can respond to people’s immediate needs.
Why do you support the Foundation?
For me, the foundation helps me become aware of the many organizations and communities that need help. They not only support diversity, they model it in every aspect of their leadership and group structures. They solicit opinions and recommendations from all our communities… young and older citizens, civic leaders, activists, diverse ethnic groups, business people from corporate types to entrepreneurs… to those who feel unheard.
Were there surprises about Boulder County that you learned about through the community foundation?
Yes! I was astounded that Boulder County had such a low level of giving. When I moved here I was delighted that Boulder did not seem driven by status consciousness as was the case in major cities I have known. The irony may have been that while New York was very ego-driven, it demonstrated wealth by a high level of giving. Maybe the lack of ego-centricity in Boulder diminished giving as a strong motivation.
The Trends report was a big surprise. Among other revelations, it helped create that awareness about giving levels. It also helped me, as a re-inventing entrepreneur, to have great data to understand the markets and needs of Boulder County. Great source of data for everyone.
I love Pledge 1% Colorado. The community foundation has brought the culture of giving to the young companies, its leaders and employees. I think this is instrumental in raising the level of giving and social consciousness to Boulder County.
What is your vision for the future of Boulder County?
As I witness the incredible growth of Boulder County, I envision the community foundation as a catalyst for continuing the sense of community I felt when I first moved here. I remember saying then this was the most “user friendly” city I ever experienced. I still think that… despite that a 10-minute drive to anywhere is now 20 minutes.
Can we keep that small city feeling as we grow seemingly exponentially? Can we create small and large group events to bring diverse people together to discuss visions and values as we grow? Can we be one of the great social innovators?
If any force can lead this, it will be Community Foundation Boulder County.
