Honoring a Remarkable Year of Community Generosity

As we reflect on the close of the year, we are deeply grateful for the extraordinary generosity that carried Eagle Valley Community Foundation—and The Community Market—through a season of heightened need. What made this moment especially meaningful was not only the support received, but the care, connection, and dignity with which our community showed up for one another.

During a year marked by rising food costs, reduced SNAP benefits, and economic uncertainty, more than 4,500 neighbors relied on The Community Market each week. Thanks to the compassion of our supporters, partners, volunteers, and donors, families continued to access fresh, nourishing food in a space rooted in respect and belonging.

We were especially honored by the leadership of longtime supporters Cynthia and Dan Helle, whose year-end matching gift inspired a powerful wave of generosity across our valley. Their reflections capture what makes The Community Market—and our broader work at Eagle Valley Community Foundation—so deeply human.

Below, we are honored to share their year-end letter, which helped galvanize support and reflect the spirit of community care that defined this season.

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A Reflection from Cynthia and Dan Helle

Dear Friends,

As the year comes to a close, Dan and I have been thinking a great deal about the moments that stayed with us this year. Many of them happened at The Community Market.

When we spend time there, what we notice first is not just the shelves filled with food, but the people. We have watched parents carefully select ingredients for meals they know their children will love. We have seen seniors linger a little longer, exchanging smiles and conversation with volunteers who know them by name. We have volunteered alongside staff who move with both urgency and care, making sure every neighbor feels welcomed and supported.

One moment that especially stayed with us was watching volunteers unload fresh produce, laughing together while knowing that within hours those fruits and vegetables would be on family tables across the valley. That combination of efficiency and heart is what makes The Community Market so special. It is not transactional. It is deeply human.

Today, more than 4,500 neighbors rely on The Community Market each week. Rising food costs, reduced SNAP benefits, and the lingering impacts of an uncertain economy have made this year especially challenging for many of our neighbors. Yet what we see, again and again, is a community responding with compassion. Staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters working together to ensure everyone has access to nourishing food and is welcomed with dignity.

Because we have seen this work up close and because we believe so deeply in its mission, Dan and I were honored to offer a $50,000 matching gift during the year-end season—an opportunity that was met with incredible generosity from our community.

Your support ensures access to fresh, nutritious food, sustains outreach to seniors and families, and preserves a space where people feel seen, respected, and connected.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us in strengthening this work—not just during the holidays, but all year long.

With gratitude,
Cynthia and Dan Helle

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With Gratitude for a Community That Shows Up

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Cynthia and Dan Helle, and to every donor, volunteer, and partner who made this season of generosity possible. Your support strengthens The Community Market and our broader programs—MIRA and Elevar—and ensures Eagle County continues to be a place of nourishment, dignity, and belonging.

Thank you for being part of this community.