Eagle Valley Community Foundation was built on the belief that everyone in our valley deserves the opportunity to thrive. What began in 2015 as a response to growing community needs has evolved into a trusted organization advancing equity, connection, and care across Eagle County. Inspired by the concerns of local residents and driven by a desire to create lasting change, a group of community leaders came together to form a foundation grounded in listening and action. Their early efforts laid the groundwork for what would become a decade of impact—improving access to food, healthcare, education, and opportunity for thousands of individuals and families.
We invite you to check out the timeline below to see key moments in our history and how far we’ve come—together.
We honor the vision and generosity of our founding board members, whose commitment to community made the creation of Eagle Valley Community Foundation possible. Their leadership helped shape our mission, guide our early steps, and establish the core values that continue to define our work. This 10-year milestone would not be possible without their belief in a more equitable future for all who call this valley home.
“At Eagle Valley Community Foundation, we stand on the shoulders of those who believed in our mission from the very beginning. Our Founders, Mike and Sue Rushmore alongside local Leaders like Seth Ehrlich, Jason Denhart, Jeremy Rietmann, and Chris Romer have helped shape who we are today — not just through their service, but through their steadfast belief in the power of community. As we celebrate our growth, we also honor the legacy of those who have walked alongside us. Their impact will be felt for generations to come.” -Melina Valsecia- Monreal, Eagle Valley Community Foundation Executive Director
Dan Godec is appointed as its new chairman. Founder Mike Rushmore stepped down as chairman of the board of directors after serving in the role since the organization got its start in 2015. Susie Davis, Ryan Kipp, and Jeff Malehorn are added to the Board of Directors. The rest of the…
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In 2021, MIRA (Mobile Intercultural Resource Alliance) was named Small Nonprofit of the Year by the Vail Valley Partnership. This award recognized MIRA’s innovative, community-led model that brings health resources, education, and support directly to neighborhoods across Eagle County. With a focus on access, equity, and trust, MIRA has become…
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We launched the leadership and social impact fund, Elevar, to provide a continuum of support to emerging Latino leaders who have gone through other community leadership programs to continue their journey and further advance power and voice in leadership roles throughout Eagle County. Elevar, or “elevate” in Spanish, provides community…
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The Vail Valley Partnership, the valley’s chamber of commerce, celebrates the best of the local business community with its success awards. Most of the winners were selected by a committee of former winners, but a couple of winners were honored by the Partnership’s leadership.
By the end of 2023, Eagle Valley Community Foundation experienced significant organizational growth, expanding its staff from 7 to 20 team members to meet the increasing demand for its programs and deepen community impact. This growth reflects strategic investments in leadership, program coordination, bilingual outreach, and evaluation—ensuring EVCF can scale…
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In 2024, Eagle Valley Community Foundation was honored as Nonprofit of the Year by the Vail Valley Partnership. This recognition celebrates our decade of commitment to meeting the needs of our community with compassion, equity, and collaboration. From expanding food access and health services to empowering neighbors through connection and…
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After years of dedicated leadership, Dan Godec transitioned out of his role as chairman of the board of directors. Stepping into the role, Jeff Malehorn, a longtime supporter and advocate for the organization, brings a wealth of experience in leadership and strategic growth.
We’re thrilled to announce the graduation of our very first Elevar cohort. Elevar launched in 2022 as the third signature program of EVCF, focusing on Community Capacity Building. Elevar is an emergent leadership development program and social impact fund that provides community investments through grantmaking and program-related investments to emerging…
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In January 2025, Eagle Valley Community Foundation (EVCF) founders Mike and Sue Rushmore were honored as the Vail Valley Foundation’s 2025 Citizens of the Year. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have provided exceptional support, vision, and leadership to the betterment of the Vail Valley community. Since founding EVCF in…
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In 2025, the Mobile Intercultural Resource Alliance (MIRA) took a major step forward in advancing health equity by launching bilingual, culturally responsive mental health services, made possible through a generous grant from The Colorado Trust.
As we look ahead, we remain grounded in our community and guided by a bold vision: a valley where everyone belongs and thrives. Our current strategic plan focuses on expanding access, deepening impact, and building systems rooted in dignity and inclusion. With continued partnership and support, we are committed to meeting the evolving needs of our neighbors and creating opportunities that will last for generations to come. We invite you to join us—because the next decade of progress starts now.
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