October is bringing awareness to two devastating events that occur in our community: wildfires and cancer. From a natural disaster to a life-altering disease, Grand County is proud to support the fight against both of these deserving of attention in the month of October & beyond.
Help Protect Our Land from Wildfires
We are lucky to have experienced an above-average snow year, but even an average wildfire season in Colorado means that more than 6,000 fires will likely burn more than 100,000 acres, not including fires on federal lands. The Grand Foundation believes in supporting community awareness, preparedness, and communication to mitigate some of the devastation. Wildfires are often preventable, because many originate from human error. Here are some ways you can help protect our beloved land from ravaging wildfires:
- First and foremost, contact 911, your local fire department, or the park service if you notice an unattended or out-of-control fire.
- Always check your local fire regulations.
- Never leave a fire unattended. When camping, completely extinguish the fire before sleeping or leaving the campsite.
- Do not discard cigarettes, matches, and smoking materials from moving vehicles. Dispose of smoking materials properly. Use an ashtray or a can of sand. Be certain to completely extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them.
- Take the time to clean up dead debris like leaves and tree branches around your house to avoid them catching on fire from stray embers. Repair loose or missing roof shingles to reduce the risk of fire damage from ember penetration.
- Sparks from lawnmowers and power equipment DO start wildfires. Be careful on hot, dry days, and be sure to get your equipment checked regularly.
- Be sure chains and other metal parts aren’t dragging from your vehicle–they throw sparks and be careful driving through or parking on dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes can catch the grass on fire.
Be Wildfire Ready with GCWC
The Grand Foundation is proud to support Grand County Wildfire Council! GCWC is a non-profit, community-based educational outreach program for the residents and visitors of Grand County, Colorado. Their group consists of members from local, state, and federal government agencies, all of Grand County’s local fire departments, homeowner groups, local businesses, and concerned citizens.
Their mission: “Through education and action, promote wildland fire prevention, preparedness, mitigation, and survival.”
Their vision: GCWC will provide a countywide platform that connects practitioners to develop a collective voice to better advocate for wildfire resiliency.
Learn more about this awesome nonprofit helping to prevent wildfires in Grand County!
Our Outstanding Fire Departments
Grand County is supported by 5 amazing fire departments. We appreciate all of the work they do in protecting our county from disastrous wildfires! We want to say thank you to the following Fire Departments:
East Grand Fire Protection District
Grand Fire Protection District
Grand Lake Fire Protection District
Hot Sulphur Springs Fire Protection District
Kremmling Fire Protection District
Supporting Those Impacted by Cancer
The Grand Foundation is dedicated to contributing to the fight against cancer and taking care of those in our community impacted by this disease. Here’s a recap of some events we participated in last month as well as some amazing nonprofit organizations we support that are doing their part to help cancer patients receive the care they need and deserve.
7th Annual Kickin' it to Cancer
The Grand Foundation raised over $35,000 last month at our annual Kickin’ it to Cancer kick ball tournament at the Fraser Sports Complex! Thank you to everyone who sponsored a team, spectated and participated in our silent auction. We enjoyed some fierce competition and a full crowd for the kids’ kickball game. Not to mention great food, refreshments, a bake sale, prizes, a silent auction, music, kids' games, and face painting! All proceeds benefit the Brammer Family Fund, a Grand Foundation fund assisting Grand County Families affected by Cancer.
Taking Steps to End all Cancer 5k Race
The Mountain Family Center worked up a sweat for a great cause on September 24th. Many participants were accessorized in pink and ready to race! The race was a day to come together and remember all of our loved ones who did not make it, who have survived, and who are still fighting this disease. All proceeds went to the Mountain Family Center Cancer Fund where Grand County patients with any type of cancer are provided with cancer-related services.
Mountain Family Center Cancer Fund
The Mountain Family Center Cancer Fund exists to ease the financial burden of treatment for Grand County residents battling cancer. Because no cancer treatment is available in the county, patients often must travel long distances, up to several times per week, to receive medical care. Gas, lodging, meals and other expenses can add up, and the Cancer Fund is available to help cover these expenses. Assistance is available regardless of income or insurance status.
Rural Health Network Patient Navigator Program
Grand County Rural Health Network believes everyone has the right to healthcare and to understand how to access that care. That’s why they offer a Patient Navigator Program for cancer patients. They coordinate care and work with you or your loved ones battling cancer to guide you through the healthcare system and to community resources to help you get the care you need, when you need it.