The next chapter is underway

$1,850,000 
Funding In Progress

More than 2,700 kids arrive at Camp Chief Ouray each summer — and right now, the staff who welcome and support them work out of a basement in an old building not designed for the job. A new, centrally located Administration Building will provide professional workspaces, efficient guest support, and a welcoming reception area for families at check-in. 

Mission connection:  When administrative infrastructure is modern and well-resourced, the entire camp experience improves. This investment says: we take the work of serving young people seriously, down to the building where it's coordinated. Modern admin infrastructure reduces operational friction, improves family arrival experience, and creates better working conditions for the staff who deliver the mission. 

$700,000 
Funding In Progress

 The Wilderness Village is where Camp Chief Ouray's oldest campers live outdoors together, away from the main campus — discovering what they're made of. An expanded village will grow capacity from 40 to 130 beds, increase programming from three to six sessions each summer, and add a new pavilion, updated facilities, and bear-resistant storage. 

Mission connection:  Expanding Wilderness Village means more teens can have the formative outdoor leadership experience at exactly the age when it matters most. Teen programming creates the strongest long-term alumni connection — the campers who come back as adults and, often, as donors. 

 "58% of youth reported that their time at summer camp helped them appreciate the importance of being present in the moment — taking time away from technology, developing in-person relationships, and reducing distractions." 

— American Camp Association, 2023

$475,000
Funding In Progress

A new Alpine Tower will expand challenge and leadership programming at Camp Chief Ouray — giving campers a high-impact physical and emotional experience that builds confidence, teamwork, and earned pride. 

Mission connection:  The climb, the fear, the decision to take the next step, the view from the top. Camp Chief Ouray's mission is to build independence and resilience in youth — and the Alpine Tower delivers that in the most direct possible way. 

$11,000,000
Funding In Progress

The current Nordic Center is a repurposed 1985 summer camp dining hall — used far beyond its life expectancy. A new 13,336 sq. ft. facility will finally match the level of the world-class trails it serves: café, lockers, retail, ski rental, sun deck, geothermal heating, solar power, and full adaptive accessibility. More than 30,000 guests annually, served at a fraction of alpine skiing costs. 

Mission connection:  The Nordic Center is the campaign's largest single investment in access. It brings thousands of people who have never experienced Rocky Mountain winter recreation into contact with something that changes them — at mission-level pricing, by design. A facility serving 30,000+ guests annually generates both community impact and sustainable revenue, expanding Snow Mountain Ranch's audience well beyond overnight guests. YMCA of the Rockies' 50%+ greenhouse gas reduction goal by 2050 is directly supported by the center's sustainability features. 

 "Snow Mountain Ranch is one of the best places for dryland training. A dedicated Nordic facility could make this place a multi-season destination for Nordic skiing and training camps." 

— Dan Jamison, Snow Mountain Ranch Nordic Skier 

$4,100,000
Funding In Progress

The current craft shop at Snow Mountain Ranch has outgrown its space and sits too far from where guests spend their time. A new, centrally located Arts and Crafts Center will offer a greater variety of creative offerings — from tie-dye to leatherwork — in a larger, ADA-compliant facility near the pool, mini-golf, and program building, with a new playground and dedicated craft leadership. 

Mission connection:  Creativity is a dimension of well-being that modern life crowds out. The Arts and Crafts Center gives guests permission to slow down, make something with their hands, and find the particular satisfaction of a tangible creation. 

 "I have two kids and they loved the craft center, especially painting! There are not many places we can go where there is something for everyone. Thank you to the donors who make all of this possible!" 

— Michelle B., Guest 

$9,200,000 
Funding In Progress

Built in 1910, the Administration Building is the first thing every guest sees at Estes Park Center. Its last major renovation was in the early 1990s. The reimagining includes a new casual café, full-service coffee bar, counter-service dining with Continental Divide views, updated accessible staff offices, a staff break room, a conference room, and sustainability upgrades including a solar energy system and Level 3 EV chargers. 

Mission connection:  When we restore the Administration Building, we're not just updating a building — we're renewing the promise made to every person who walks through the door: that this place is cared for, that you are expected, and that what you'll find here is worthy of the journey. Energy efficiency upgrades reduce long-term operating costs. New café and dining options generate revenue serving guests and the surrounding Estes Park community. A renewed arrival experience increases return visit likelihood and the probability that a guest becomes a donor. 

 "Entering the Administration Building after a long travel day is an instant feeling of relaxation. Our family has countless memories of grabbing a cup of coffee and enjoying a crisp morning taking in the views from the front porch. The Administration Building IS YMCA of the Rockies!" 

— Erin C., YMCA of the Rockies Guest 

You can support the YMCA of the Rockies mission through immediate, endowed, or planned gifts in these additional areas:  

• Donor-Sponsored Getaways / Annual Fund 
• Cabin Adoptions 
• Camper Scholarships 
• Chaplaincy Endowment 
• Hiking Program 
• Mental Health Support 
• Nature Appreciation / Stewardship Programming 
• Outdoor Education Access and Expansion 
• Renewable Energy Projects 
• Staff Scholarships and Experience