How We Started

In 1997 Mark Smith (founding partner of Slifer, Smith & Frampton and East-West Partners) saw an emerging concern. In the shadow of the dazzling growth of the Vail and Beaver Creek resorts, a new community of service workers had been growing in the area. These hard working families, living paycheck to paycheck, were finding employment in lower paying jobs - the kind of jobs that resort guests and vacationers never saw, but were critical to keeping the local economy moving. It was clear that there was a growing "opportunity gap" between our community's families. The one common area that Smith saw for equal opportunity for all families was education. However, even there, gaps existed. And that's why The Youth Foundation was created- to help extend educational opportunities to lower income youth.

Smith was joined by other business leaders including, Chupa Nelson, Gerald Gallegos, Rich Rogel, Ron Rozga, Jay Regan, George Shaeffer, Scott Somes, EB Chester, Gerry Engle, Steve Fossett, Ellie Seevak, Bob Hernreich, Pat Terwilliger and Rod Slifer. As successful business people, these founding members knew that just throwing money at a problem would not be an effective solution. Their original design and mission for The Youth Foundation continues today through a combination of custom programs and services, funding support for related youth programs, and direct scholarships. In 2007 The Youth Foundation celebrated its 10th Anniversary by honoring each of the committed founders at the Star Gazing Gala. The Founders have dedicated themselves to aiding disadvantaged youth throughout Eagle County and their commitment has led others to do the same in hopes of bettering the lives of at-risk youth.

Kathy Brendza was a key creator of The Youth Foundation as its founding Executive Director from 1997 to 2005. She was responsible for developing quality programs to engage children. Kathy is now the Principal at the New America Schools, and continues to consult on program development with The Youth Foundation. Today, Susie Davis serves as the Executive Director of the Youth Foundation. Her commitment to growth, innovation and creativity drives the Youth Foundation's mission to serve children in this valley. Under Susie's leadership, results have been outstanding, programs have grown dramatically, and the Youth Foundation is an indispensable asset in Eagle County.