For Maureen and Jorge Espinoza, giving back to our community is second nature.
“We both grew up in families who were involved with nonprofit organizations,” says Maureen, an attorney and trustee at the Friends School who has called Boulder home for more than 22 years, and who earned a law degree and a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and geography at CU Boulder. “Philanthropy is a deeply ingrained value for us, and – a few years ago – we felt inspired and compelled to get serious about making a difference in our community.”
Out of their shared commitment, Maureen and Jorge – Principal/Broker Associate with the Colorado Group, a Front Range commercial real estate company – established the Espinoza Family Foundation at Community Foundation Boulder County.
“The foundation makes it easy to give,” continues Maureen, who speaks Spanish and who’s been a passionate advocate for Latinas. “It’s such a great setup, and it’s very straightforward.
“Perhaps most important, the foundation is very connected to the different sectors of our community, and its impact is far-reaching. The foundation is a versatile vehicle for charitable giving, and it presents a great opportunity to make a bigger splash and have a larger impact than we could do on our own.”
Indeed, Maureen has volunteered her time to serve on grant committees of your Community Foundation, and knows from first-hand experience the breadth of our funding areas. “We first came to the Community Foundation through friends who worked there. Hearing how committed they were, and being invited to various foundation events, really energized us. And, at one point, our financial advisor partnered with the foundation.”
Reflecting on her family’s giving goals, Maureen adds, “Jorge is really active with organizations like the Boulder Mountainbike Alliance, and he supports efforts to build new trails, and to appreciate and celebrate trail access. [Indeed, Jorge – who grew up in Paraguay – raced for the U.S. national team between 1994-96!]
“Our kids are really into animals, too. One of my daughters has done a number of fundraisers, including bake sales to benefit the Humane Society of Boulder Valley [a foundation grantee].”
Along with their two daughters – Sylvia and Carmen – the couple also enjoy skiing, camping, and backpacking as a family and with friends, additionally prioritizing the arts.
“For me, the hardest part is narrowing down my interests,” concludes Maureen. “There are so many issues I care deeply about. I support independent schools, and initiatives for empowering woman on all levels – from victims of domestic violence to reproductive rights to immigrant advocacy resources. Often, those issues cross over.
“A classic example is a Latina who’s a victim of domestic violence and also a non-legal permanent resident. There are so many ways – and so many organizations – that can support her and elevate her, including resolving her immigration status.
“I’m big on recognizing the whole picture, and the Community Foundation helps us get the most ‘bang for our buck’ when it comes to contributing across the board to strengthen various and often interconnected sectors of our community.”
