Left to right, Eva Egbert, Matthew Stanek, Chris Haggerty, Wendy McDermott, Bryce Howe, Chesney Thompson, Aidan Warner, Jess Downing, Cara Freeman and Carol Novak
(CHAFFEE COUNTY, CO) — The Chaffee County Community Foundation (CCCF) and Monarch Mountain Community Outreach are proud to announce the 2025 Monarch Mountain Community Outreach Impact Grant recipients: the Central Colorado Conservancy and the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA). Each organization will receive $5,000 in support of projects that strengthen environmental stewardship, community well-being, and equitable access to outdoor spaces.
The Central Colorado Conservancy will use its grant to complete a 37-acre perpetual conservation easement on the Williams Ranch, one of the last undeveloped, agriculturally productive parcels within the City of Salida. The funds will support transaction and due diligence costs needed to finalize the deed of conservation easement.
“This property represents one of the last opportunities to preserve working agricultural land and open space within Salida’s city limits,” said Wendy McDermott, Executive Director, Central Colorado Conservancy. “With Monarch’s support, we can ensure this land remains protected for future generations—both as habitat and as a living connection to the area’s agricultural heritage.”
The Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA) will apply its Impact Grant funding to expand equitable access to nature-based recreation and youth development opportunities in Chaffee County. Despite the county’s vast public lands, many local youth lack the resources and opportunities to connect meaningfully with the outdoors.
“Our programs give local young people the tools and confidence to build a lifelong connection to the outdoors,” said GARNA Executive Director Jessica Downing. “With this support, we can reach more youth and address critical mental health and wellness needs through positive, nature-based experiences.”
The Monarch Mountain Community Outreach Impact Grant program reflects Monarch’s core values of environmental sustainability, recreation, humanitarianism, and community support. These larger, high-impact grants complement Monarch’s ongoing community giving efforts, which include annual Community Grants and matching programs for both season pass holders and employees.
“Monarch Mountain is deeply committed to giving back to the community that supports us,” said Chris Haggerty, GM, Monarch Mountain. “Through these Impact Grants, we’re investing in projects that make Chaffee County stronger, more sustainable, and more connected.”
Administered by CCCF, the Monarch Mountain Community Outreach Impact Grants are designed to support high-impact projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes, meet clear community needs, and align with Monarch’s values. This year’s recipients were selected following a competitive application process, staff and advisory review, and final funding recommendations from Monarch Mountain’s Community Outreach advisors.
“We are honored to partner with Monarch Mountain to channel local business generosity into lasting community benefit,” said Betsy Dittenber, CCCF Executive Director. “These grants represent the best of what community partnership can achieve—local organizations working together for the greater good.”
Funds will be distributed this month, and all projects are expected to be completed by July 31, 2026.
