Marco Varela

Elevar Program Manager

marco@eaglevalleycf.org

Marco Varela serves as the Program Manager for Elevar at Eagle Valley Community Foundation, where he leads initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, leadership development, and economic mobility for emerging community leaders across Eagle County. Originally from Mexico City, Marco grew up in a family that deeply valued education and lifelong learning, inspired by his mother, an elementary school teacher.

Marco brings more than 15 years of professional experience in human resources, nonprofit leadership, humanitarian aid, and community development. His career has included leadership roles with organizations and companies such as Toyota, Sodexo, LDS Charities, UNICEF, Save the Children, Catholic Charities, Cáritas, the Mexican Ministry of Health, and UNHCR. Over the past 13 years, he has served as a Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager and Humanitarian Project Manager, helping individuals and families build stability, strengthen self-reliance, and access opportunities for long-term success.

He holds a Master’s degree in Business, two doctorates in Education and Executive Leadership, and an Associate Degree in Applied Business Management from Brigham Young University. Marco also holds certifications in entrepreneurship, commercial leadership, fitness, and nutrition, reflecting his multidisciplinary approach to leadership and community wellbeing.

At Elevar, Marco is passionate about connecting people with the resources, mentorship, education, and funding opportunities they need to create meaningful and lasting change in their lives. His work centers on building culturally responsive programs that foster belonging, empower historically underserved populations, and help local entrepreneurs and changemakers turn their ideas into thriving businesses and community-driven initiatives.

Marco brings a collaborative, equity-driven leadership style grounded in the belief that investing in people and their potential creates stronger, healthier, and more connected communities for everyone.