Welcome Back to the Grand Foundation Newsletter!
Every other month, we’ll share Grand Foundation announcements, upcoming events, grant deadlines, and stories from our local grantees. Stay tuned and stay connected as we continue strengthening Grand County, one grant at a time.
Thank You for the Years of Service
Retiring Board Members
This year, three long-standing Board Members—Jim Kennedy, Trinna Tressler, and Mike Ritschard—retired from the Grand Foundation Board. We would like to take this opportunity to recognize their immense contributions over the past decade.
Thank you to Jim, a pillar of the Grand County community, served as Secretary of the Board from 2019–2023 and as Vice Chair from 2023 until his retirement in June 2025. He contributed to many committees and was instrumental in the creation of the HOPE Fund, focused on mental and behavioral health.After 11 years on the Board, Jim (Doc) Kennedy reflects: “I have always believed that ‘charity begins at home,’ not in faraway places. A caring community knows where the needs are. For more than a decade, I had the privilege to serve an organization that lives this ideal. The Board and the Staff, led by Megan Ledin, serve with a full commitment to this ideal. No one serves on the Board for self, only for purpose. The list of accomplishments goes on and on. If not for a life decision to leave the county, I would commit to serve on one of the finest boards ever. It has been an honor.”Thank you to Trinna Tressler, who retired after more than 10 years of service.
Since joining the Board in 2014, Trinna shared, “The Grand Foundation provided an avenue to give back to a community which provided many outdoor and social opportunities to us.” She contributed her time and insight to the Donor Development, Annual Grants, Strategic Planning, and Marketing committees, and co-founded the Treckles Family Fund. We are grateful for her leadership, generosity, and lasting impact on the Foundation and the wider community.
Lastly, thank you to Mike Ritschard as he retires from the Board after more than 10 years of service. Since joining in 2014, Mike has contributed his insight to several key committees, including the Blue Valley Ranch Youth Fund and the Grand County Commissioners Donor-Advised Fund. He also served as Chair of the Board from 2019 through 2021, helping guide the Foundation through important years of growth and community impact.Mike played an instrumental role in the Citizens for a Safe Highway 9 Project Donor-Advised Fund and the 100-Year Anniversary of the Middle Park Fair & Rodeo. His influence strengthened the Foundation’s connection to the west end of the county and supported meaningful progress.
Thank you, Jim, Trinna, and Mike, for your service. Your contributions will continue to make a difference for years to come.
Upcoming Grant Deadlines
Town of Granby Fund
December 1, 2025
Blue Valley Ranch Youth Fund
December 31, 2025
Grand County Housing Assistance Fund
December 31, 2025
Colorado Gives Day is on December 9th, 2025! Consider donating to the Grand Foundation on
http://grandcountygives.org/
Donations received between now and December 9th will be boosted by their Incentive Fund, so donate today!
Immediate Impact
Furloughed Workers:
The Grand Foundation and County Commissioners are offering mortgage and rental assistance to support local residents who may be affected by the federal government shutdown. With many federal employees facing furloughs or delayed paychecks, this assistance can help ease immediate financial strain. Contact info@grandfoundation.com for more information.
Gift Cards for SNAP Users:
The Grand Foundation has donated $10,000 in grocery store gift cards to Mountain Family Center to support SNAP recipients. The gift cards were distributed to over 35 unique households in Granby and Kremmling. During the federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits may be limited or disrupted, putting additional strain on families who rely on them for essential food access.
Recent Events
This fall we’ve hosted two successful fundraising events—Bags for Brammer and Casino Night. Bags for Brammer is an annual cornhole tournament raising funds for the Brammer Family Fund, funding cancer treatment related expenses. Casino Night benefits our Opportunity for Youth Fund which supports youth participation in extracurricular activities.
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Fund Updates
New Fund- Community Priority Fund
The Grand County Community Priorities Fund (CPF), the Grand Foundation’s newest grant opportunity, will support projects focused on local childcare, workforce housing, and programs that enhance or improve the Grand County visitor experience.
The fund was established by the Grand County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) following the passage of the 1A ballot measure in November 2024, which allowed for the expanded use of lodging tax revenue under Colorado HB 22-1117.
Grand Passes
All passes are for the 2025-26 year are sold out, bringing in over $600,000 in revenue. This incredible local business support allows us to fund our Annual Grants Program which goes to a variety of local non-profit organizations.
Winter Park and Grand County Housing Assistance Fund
A total of $75,000 has been raised for our housing assistance funds. These contributions will directly support our local workforce in affording rising housing costs throughout the county.
Mental Health
An additional $30,000 has been contributed by various donors to support mental health programs. These funds will help expand access, awareness, prevention, and stigma reduction throughout the county.