Community Champion Spotlight: Rick on the Power of Elevar

Strong communities are built by people who believe in the potential of their neighbors. Rick is one of those people.

A friend of Eagle Valley Community Foundation board members Jeff and Laura Malehorn, Rick was introduced to Elevar through relationships rooted in shared leadership and community values. After participating in an L3 Leadership class alongside EVCF leaders Melina Valsecia and Sofia Fecchino, Rick saw firsthand how intentional leadership development can ripple outward, strengthening individuals, organizations, and the community as a whole.

For Rick, Elevar represents more than an entrepreneurship program. It reflects a deeper commitment to equity, opportunity, and long-term community wellbeing.

“For me, the Elevar program embodies the spirit of empowerment and community uplift in Eagle County,” Rick shared. “By focusing on leadership development for BIPOC entrepreneurs and emerging leaders from low-income backgrounds, Elevar invests in people and their potential to drive lasting change.”

Elevar’s model is intentionally small and deeply personalized. Each year, a limited cohort of entrepreneurs is selected to ensure participants receive tailored mentorship, targeted grant support, and access to a thoughtfully designed curriculum. This approach allows entrepreneurs not only to sustain and grow their businesses, but to step confidently into leadership roles within the valley.

“Through personalized mentorship, targeted grantmaking, and a thoughtfully designed curriculum, the program equips participants—not only to sustain and scale their businesses—but to emerge as leaders who strengthen our valley’s fabric,” Rick explained.

Rick also emphasizes that Elevar’s impact extends beyond individual success stories. It contributes to a broader economic ecosystem that benefits everyone.

“The economic impact of programs like Elevar is profound,” he noted. “Across Colorado, more than 43,000 immigrant entrepreneurs employ over 83,000 people, and immigrants make up nearly 11% of all state entrepreneurs—generating $566 million in business income annually.”

By investing in emerging local leaders, Elevar helps ensure that this economic vitality is rooted right here in Eagle County—fueling job creation, innovation, and inclusive growth.

“Elevar’s first cohort graduates now contribute directly to a more inclusive, innovative, and equitable future for the valley,” Rick said.

Rick’s support of Elevar reflects what’s possible when community members lean into shared responsibility and collective vision. Together, with partners, mentors, and champions like Rick, we are building pathways for leadership, opportunity, and lasting change.