CHAFFEE COUNTY, CO — Friday, May 29, 2026 — Students at The Crest Academy recently stepped into the role of philanthropists through a unique partnership with the Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF), gaining firsthand experience in community leadership, nonprofit support, and charitable giving.

As part of the program, 7th and 8th grade students explored the role philanthropy plays in strengthening communities while learning about local nonprofits and the needs they address across Chaffee County. Through a hands-on grantmaking process, students researched local nonprofits, presented their research to their classmates, discussed community priorities, and voted on funding decisions — mirroring the real-world work of community foundations and grant committees.

“Philanthropy is about recognizing that everyone has the ability to make a difference in their community,” said Betsy Dittenber, Executive Director of the Chaffee County Community Foundation. “Watching these students thoughtfully discuss local needs, ask important questions, and ultimately invest in organizations they believe in was incredibly inspiring. They approached the process with compassion, curiosity, and a genuine desire to create a positive impact.”

The program was made possible by generous donations from Monarch Mountain Community Outreach and individual local donors who believe in the importance of fostering a sense of philanthropy in the next generation. Contact Betsy at to make a contribution to continue this program in the next school year. 

At the conclusion of the program, students awarded a total of $2,500 in funding to six local nonprofit organizations:

  • Greater Arkansas River Nature Association
  • Salida Mountain Trails
  • Camp Coletrain
  • Foodshed Alliance
  • The Alliance
  • Ark-Valley Humane Society

The experience was designed not only to introduce students to philanthropy, but also to encourage civic engagement, collaboration, and thoughtful community investment at a young age. Students learned how nonprofits serve the community in different ways — from environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation to food access, youth support, and animal welfare — while also developing skills in teamwork, communication, and decision-making.

The partnership reflects CCCF’s ongoing commitment to building community leadership and creating opportunities for residents of all ages to engage in philanthropy and civic life.

About Chaffee County Community Foundation
Founded in 2018, Chaffee County Community Foundation is a public, nonprofit organization established to promote and facilitate philanthropy in Chaffee County. CCCF acts as a catalyst to inspire positive change through the power of philanthropy to enrich the lives of all people in the county. Its work focuses on building nonprofit capacity, inspiring philanthropy, and connecting communities. To learn more, visit www.chaffeecommunity.org.

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