RBC | The America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is excited to announce its aligned giving program, created in partnership with leading statewide foundations. This initiative will allow community organizations to participate in the 2026 commemoration. Through this program, the Commission will act as a clearinghouse, connecting organizations with funding opportunities for programs and projects celebrating Colorado’s deep history and promising future.
With more than $4.5 million already committed from philanthropic partners, this initiative will support commemorative projects such as local events, educational programs, public art installations, historic preservation, and additional community-driven efforts. Organizations across Colorado are encouraged to submit project descriptions for review, with a streamlined process to connect selected proposals with funding partners.
“The America 250 – Colorado 150 dual anniversary is about bringing people together to reflect on our past, celebrate our communities, and look toward our future,” said Commission Co-Chair Nathan Richie, Director of the Golden History Museum & Park. “We proudly support organizations across Colorado in marking this momentous occasion.”
“The Anschutz Foundation is proud to be part of the America 250 – Colorado 150 initiative,” said Christian Anschutz, President of the Anschutz Foundation and a 250-150 Commissioner, who committed $1 million to the effort. “We have always believed that our shared history, as a nation and as a state, should be a source of pride. We look forward to working with nonprofit organizations around the state to mark this momentous occasion.”
Committed Philanthropic Support for Colorado’s Communities
Several of Colorado’s most respected foundations have pledged funding to support this historic milestone:
● Anschutz Foundation $1 million
● Boettcher Foundation $500,000
● Daniels Fund $1 million
● El Pomar Foundation $1 million
● Gates Family Foundation $1 million
Hanna Skandera, President & CEO of the Daniels Fund, emphasized Colorado’s enduring spirit, stating, “For 150 years, Colorado has been a land of opportunity, grit, and resilience. A key part of that 150-year story is the spirit of community, generosity, and giving that continues today. The Daniels Fund is proud to support the work of the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission in honoring the past and shaping a bright future for us all.”
El Pomar Foundation, which has also committed $1 million, echoed this sentiment. “As a foundation with more than 85 years of philanthropic giving to Colorado nonprofits, El Pomar is pleased to partner with the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission to commemorate and celebrate our shared history,” said Kyle H. Hybl, President & CEO of El Pomar Foundation. “We look forward to supporting projects that bring Coloradans together to honor our past and anticipate our future.”
How to Apply for Aligned Giving
Beginning April 1, 2025, organizations seeking funding can submit a project description through the official website. The Commission will review each submission, evaluate its alignment with commemoration objectives, and forward the program narratives to foundation partners for consideration.
The objectives of the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission are described in Colorado Senate Bill 22-011, which established its mission. The legislation charges the Commission with promoting awareness and appreciation of Colorado’s shared history while supporting commemorative and historical events statewide. Through education, engagement, and celebration, the Commission seeks to honor Colorado’s past, highlight its cultural richness, and inspire future generations.
The submission process follows these key steps:
● Organizations complete an online interest form with project details.
● The Commission reviews submissions and assigns an alignment rating.
● Organizations are notified of their project’s rating: Highly Aligned, Aligned, or Forwarded.
● All proposals are submitted to funding partners for consideration.
● Organizations will be informed if an aligned funding partner requests a full proposal.
● Selected organizations submit proposals directly to the requesting foundation.
“Gates Family Foundation is happy to join with our philanthropic colleagues and other partners in celebrating the milestone of 150 years of statehood and supporting the work of the Commission,” said Tom Gougeon, President of Gates Family Foundation. “This year and next, we will be investing in ways to protect and honor the range of people and cultures connected to this place and land and prepare Colorado for the next 150 years.”
Katie Kramer, President & CEO of the Boettcher Foundation, which has committed $500,000, highlighted the lasting impact of this effort. “At Boettcher, we believe in the promise of Colorado and the potential of Coloradans. Supporting the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission is both a testament to our mission and honors our state’s history by elevating leadership and innovation while paving the way for generations of impact.”
To learn more about America 250 – Colorado 150 and how you can get involved, follow along on social media at @Am250CO150 and visit the official website at Am250CO150.org.
Locally, Teresia Reed has been appointed as the Local Advisor for the Great West Region for the 250-150 celebration. She can be reached at 970-388-7164 for information.