Summit County, Colorado is a vacation paradise for millions of visitors each year, but to more than 28,000 people it is also their home – a special community enriched by the work of The Summit Foundation.

Established in 1984 by the Breckenridge Ski Area, The Summit Foundation is a public community foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents and guests of Summit County and neighboring communities. 

The Summit Foundation is a leader in building a legacy of generosity, supporting nonprofit organizations in our community that foster art & culture, health & human services, education, environment, scholarships, sports & recreation.  The Summit Foundation awards funds to nonprofit organizations twice per year from submitted applications.  Since 1986, The Foundation has awarded more than $8.6 million in grants which have been distributed to 265 nonprofit organizations.  Additionally, more than $1 million has been distributed in scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education.

A partnership established with Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Beaver Creek Resort, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Copper Mountain Resort, Keystone Resort, Vail Resort, and Winter Park gives the Foundation the opportunity to generate significant revenues to return to community organizations.  As a result of the generosity of the local ski areas, sponsors, donors and volunteers, The Summit Foundation raises more than $1.3 million annually to support the Foundation and our grant making programs.  Our goal is to assist those in need with a “hand up” rather than a “hand out”.  

The Summit Foundation raises revenue through individual and business donations, fundraising events, the patron pass program, and charitable gifts to our endowment, donor advised, scholarship and memorial funds.