We recently welcomed Holly Coleman to the ACF team as our Chief Philanthropy Officer. Holly is a 21/64 certified philanthropic advisor with a passion for guiding foundations, corporations, families, and individuals toward avenues for values-based giving. She graduated from James Madison University and then earned an MSW in International Social Work from the University of Denver. Learn more about her below!
- What about ACF’s mission and work resonates most with you?
The collaborative and community-driven approach that ACF embodies is what most resonates when I reflect on ACF’s tremendous role and impact in our beloved community. I am so thrilled to be a part of an organization that places authentic partnership with the community at the center of its various initiatives, grantmaking and philanthropic service offerings. I look forward to being out in the community in this new role so that I can listen, learn and connect more with all the amazing individuals and organizations who dedicate so much of their lives and resources to making our region a place where everyone can thrive.
- What excites you about joining the ACF team?
The ACF staff and board is comprised of some of the most caring, sincere and brilliant folks I have ever had the honor of working alongside. I am energized by the impactful work the organization supports and I look forward to learning how we can continue to expand our impact and influence. I plan to lean into the deep wisdom of community members across the region and the team/board here at ACF.
- What does it mean to have an organization like ACF supporting the Roaring Fork Valley?
Having an organization like ACF that serves as a bridge builder, connector and convener through strong relationships with donors, community members, and nonprofits creates so many opportunities for deep and lasting impact and collaboration on the social and environmental issues that directly impact the lives of community members in our region. Most importantly, having an entity that encourages dialogue, generosity and collaboration among and between people and sectors creates hope. Hope that together as a community we can make real change that moves the needle on critical issues facing our region and the world today.
- What are you most excited about in your new role?
I am beyond excited that this opportunity will allow me to pour my time, energy and passion into my own community in a greater way. In previous roles, my focus and impact have been spread out geographically so getting to work in a role that supports and builds close relationships and partnerships in a place that I hold so dear to my heart is a dream come true. Building genuine and deep relationships that lead to meaningful impact and change is what brings me the most joy in my life, both personally and professionally. I see many opportunities to do this in my position as Chief Philanthropy Officer at ACF.
- What drives your passion for philanthropy?
At its core, I believe that philanthropy comes down to kindness and generosity, something that we can all engage in daily regardless of who we are, what we have and where we live. I love supporting the meaningful movement of funds and resources in ways that result in a deep impact on the intended legacy/values of the giver and the work of the recipient and community. Additionally, philanthropy as a way to connect generations is inspiring to me. I have been privileged to witness the joy and connection that can happen when families work together to identify and support the shared causes they are passionate about. In short, I have devoted my career to philanthropy because it gives me hope and grounds me in the reality that we all have a role to play in the solutions to the biggest issues facing our world today and that no one person or sector can do it all!
You can say hi to Holly at holly@aspencommunityfoundation.org. She is looking forward to working with you!
