Every gift moves the mission forward

Ongoing
In 2025, YMCA of the Rockies provided 4,846 donor-sponsored getaways to 20,000 people through programs including Teacher Recess, Mission 623, Foster the Future, G.R.A.C.E., Connect 50, and 202 Days — giving families, teachers, military personnel, foster families, and faith leaders access to experiences they could not otherwise afford. 

Mission connection:  This is the most direct access program the YMCA of the Rockies operates. A teacher who hasn't had a real vacation. A military family carrying invisible wounds. A foster child who has never been outdoors. Donor-sponsored getaways give these guests not just a place to stay — but a place to belong. 

 "Coming out of a season of deployment, the time together to simply play and enjoy all the opportunities was a tremendous blessing. We are so thankful to everyone who sponsors and supports this program." 

— Wilder Family, Mission 623 Guest 

Ongoing
In 2025, YMCA of the Rockies awarded 383 donor-funded scholarships totaling more than $345,000, making it possible for young people to attend camp who otherwise could not have participated. These scholarships supported campers across CCO Overnight Camp, CCO Day Camp, EPC Day Camp, and Estes Park Preschool.

Mission connection:  Scholarships are how the YMCA of the Rockies refuses the economic stratification of outdoor recreation. If you belong here, the cost will not keep you away. 

Campaign benefit:  Scholarship recipients are among the most loyal alumni CCO produces — often becoming the adults who fund the next generation of scholarships. 

 "Being awarded a scholarship is the only way we can make summer camp happen for our two girls. Camp is a huge benefit to our family." 

— Jessica, Camper Parent 

Ongoing
YMCA of the Rockies currently serves 6,400 outdoor education students every year across Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch. The goal is 11,000 students annually. Scholarships for transportation, food, and lodging are available for Title 1 schools facing economic barriers. 

Mission connection:  For many students, this trip is their first time experiencing the natural wonder of Colorado — a direct result of a donor's belief that the outdoors should be accessible to everyone, not just those whose families can afford the trip. 

Campaign benefit:  Expanding from 6,400 to 11,000 students represents a significant increase in program reach — while simultaneously advancing the mission of access and environmental stewardship. 

"What makes the trip so special for these kids is that this area is in their backyard, but they don't get the chance to get out there. They're city kids who don't get a shot to get up here and see what all of this is, and it's breathtaking." 

— Mr. V, Orchard Park Elementary School Teacher 

Ongoing
The Guided Hiking Program has taken more than 18,500 guests into Rocky Mountain National Park over the past five years — with hikemasters who combine deep trail knowledge with genuine warmth for every skill level. The program is provided free to guests and members. Investment supports expanded staffing, year-round hike offerings, and dedicated transportation. 

Mission connection:  Before Rocky Mountain National Park was established in 1915, YMCA of the Rockies had already published a hiking map and guide. The program is a core expression of what this organization has always been: a place that helps people experience the mountains more fully than they could on their own. 

 "On a YMCA guided hike, I have been able to experience parts of Rocky Mountain National Park that I would have never been able to see just on my own. The accomplishment I get reaching each destination is one of the greatest feelings!" 

— Bonnie R., YMCA Guest 

Ongoing
Climbing Higher includes investment in mental health programming for both guests and staff — recognizing that the epidemic of loneliness, anxiety, and burnout that drives so many people to YMCA of the Rockies requires intentional, structured response. For staff: expanded Employee Assistance Program, Mental Health First Aid training, and dedicated program coordination roles. 

Mission connection:  YMCA of the Rockies builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all — and that middle word, mind, is more urgent now than at any point in the organization's history. 

Ongoing
Cabin adoptions allow donors to fund the renovation, naming, or ongoing maintenance of individual guest cabins — creating a personal, lasting connection between a donor's generosity and the specific spaces where guests sleep, rest, and make memories. 

Mission connection:  Cabins are where the YMCA of the Rockies experience becomes intimate — the same cabin, year after year, for a family that keeps returning. 

Campaign benefit:  Accessible at multiple investment levels. One of the most relationship-building giving mechanisms in the campaign.

Ongoing
Sustained investment in chaplaincy, ministry programming, and faith-based hospitality across both campuses ensures the Christian identity of YMCA of the Rockies continues to be expressed — not in doctrine, but in the culture of genuine welcome and care that defines this place. 

Mission connection:  Faith programming sustains the organizational values across staff generations and guest demographics — protecting the culture that makes YMCA of the Rockies distinctive.