BGV Gives information.

In 2023, BGV Gives impacted 192 non-profits supporting health, human services, education, arts, environment, and sports and recreation in Summit and Park Counties. Additionally, BGV’s Volunteer Time Off (VTO) program paid employees for 6,565 hours working at non-profits.

BGV’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year, Jacob Budnick, said, “for me, BGV’s VTO program is an opportunity to do our part in maintaining and continuously improving this incredible place that we’re so lucky to call home.”

Particularly impactful was BGV Gives’ support of the Summit Community Care Clinic’s hypertension program. The Care Clinic distributes home blood pressure monitors and provides enhanced patient support to decrease cardiovascular risks and mortality for local residents.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kathleen Cowie says about the program, “Much of blood pressure management depends on patients understanding their condition and working with a trusted provider. Hypertension is known as the ‘silent killer,’ as most people feel fine with elevated blood pressure. We found that positive results increased significantly through this program.”

In Park County, BGV Gives provided both funding and volunteer assistance to create an educational, high-alpine community garden at the Sacramento Creek Ranch near Alma through a partnership with Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT).

According to Lynn Caligiuri, Executive Director of MALT, “The Trust is fortunate and grateful to have found such a turnkey partnership with BGV Gives. Upon completion in summer of 2024, the community garden will host a population of 15-20 native plants, along with educational interpretive signage to support students, educators, and community members seeking to learn about biodiversity, botany, and high alpine plant environments. Without BGV Gives, this educational hub would not be a reality!”

Tara Dew, BGV Gives Program Manager, said “Philanthropy is a top priority for Breckenridge Grand Vacations. From the company’s executive leadership to our newest hires, BGV employees give back to those around them.”

BGV was recognized at local and national levels this year and we could not be more grateful to our employees for embracing the culture of giving back.   

Outstanding Business Philanthropy Award from The Summit Foundation

Each year, The Summit Foundation recognizes outstanding community members through its Annual Philanthropy Awards. These awards celebrate and recognize outstanding individuals, businesses, and nonprofits who embrace a culture of giving back and devote their time, talents, and resources to elevate our Summit County community.  

BGV was awarded the 2023 Outstanding Business Philanthropy Award.  This achievement is a true testament to all the work BGV has done for our community for decades and highlights our late owner, Rob Millisor’s philanthropic, community-first legacy. Recent initiatives to strengthen BGV’s company commitment resulted in the establishment of the Community Impact department, a team who is fully devoted to “Doing Well by Doing Good” and creating an impact on local environmental, social, and philanthropic causes.  

This culture of compassion is a direct result of BGV employees championing community service and engagement. From building trails with Friend of the Dillon Ranger District, packaging and/or delivering Smart Bellies meals to local families, donating blood, participating in the annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk, and so much more! This strong commitment to our community is the reason why BGV will continue to positively impact the community for years to come. Congratulations to the entire team at BGV who made this GRAND moment possible! 

Friends of the Dillion Ranger District Partner of the Year

BGV proudly accepted the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) Partner of the Year for 2023. This esteemed recognition acknowledges the outstanding collaboration between BGV Gives and FDRD, particularly in their joint efforts each summer to enhance trail systems through multiple forest stewardship projects.  

BGV’s commitment to community engagement shines brightly through initiatives like this, fostering a culture of volunteerism and environmental stewardship among our employees. As a company, BGV provides “Volunteer Time Off,” through which it pays each full-time and part-time employee to contribute at least 24 hours each year to meaningful local causes, with the forest stewardship projects organized by FDRD being a favorite. 

Each year, several departments and individuals within BGV sign up for trail work, taking a break from the resort or office to dedicate a day to trail maintenance. These projects not only contribute to the well-being of the local trail systems but also enhance the outdoor activities that many employees enjoy, including trail running, hiking, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, and walking their dogs. In 2023 alone, over 50 BGV employees worked at one of 4 trail days with FDRD, contributing over 200 hours to the maintenance and preservation of trails at Spruce Creek, just south of Breckenridge.  

This award stands as a testament to BGV’s unwavering commitment to community partnership, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of its employees. 

Snowmelt Efficiency Project at GL7 Recognized by the EPA

In September, BGV was awarded the Region 8 Pollution Prevention Award by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its snowmelt efficiency project at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7. This recognition honors companies who have made significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. BGV is the only hospitality group to achieve this federal and nationally recognized award in 2023!  

Since this project was implemented in November of 2022: 

  • The Grand Lodge on Peak 7 has saved 500-1,000 metric million BTUs of natural gas per month or 2.6-5.3 metric tons of CO2 per month. 
  • This is the same as planting 3.2 acres of forests in one year. 
  • Natural gas usage dropped by 14%. 
  • These savings were seen during a winter with record low temperatures. 

Jeff Edwards (Energy Programs Coordinator) and Ellen Reid (Director of Community Impact) were interviewed by 9News to talk more about BGV, the company’s mission, and the great work happening at the Grand Lodge on Peak In addition, members from the EPA came to tour the project and property in early November to present the award to the team.  

BGV would not have received this prestigious award without all the hard work from the Sustainability team, the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 Engineering team and other property leaders. Thank you all and a big congratulations to everyone that made this amazing achievement possible! 

Check out the EPA’s Facebook and Twitter posts about the announcement. 

It’s with great pleasure that BGV Gives welcomes a new staff member to the team – Callison Strey, Community Impact Programs Coordinator.

What motivated you to join the BGV Gives team, and how does the mission of the organization align with your personal values? 

The strong sense of community in Breckenridge and Summit County aligns with BGV Gives mission to honor Rob Millisor’s Legacy through local philanthropy. Living in Breckenridge for almost 12 years, I believe that strong community connections fuel both personal and professional growth and it’s an honor to be a part of the Community Impact and BGV Gives team that invests in its people just as much as it invests in its community. 

As a new team member, what aspects of BGV Gives’ initiatives or programs have stood out to you the most, and why? 

BGV Gives’ diverse initiatives are impressive, but the ones focused on environmental stewardship and employee volunteerism resonate most with me. Seeing our colleagues dedicate their time and skills to local nonprofits, like the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District, is so inspiring. Coming from a sustainability background and being an avid trail user, I am impressed by our initiatives to care for our trails and empower employees to make a positive impact.  

How do you envision contributing to the ongoing success of BGV Gives? Are there specific projects or areas you are particularly excited to work on? 

I look forward to our new grant platform launching in the Fall of 2024. It will streamline and enhance our partnerships with existing nonprofits, while opening doors to new collaborations. I can’t wait to apply my skills to optimize outreach and build relationships that amplify BGV Gives’ impact. Learning from Tara’s local philanthropy expertise will be invaluable in this process, and together, we’ll ensure Rob Millisor’s legacy thrives through strategic growth and sustained impact. 

In your experience so far, how have you seen the impact of BGV Gives on the community, and what role do you believe the organization plays in making a positive difference?  

Being part of the fall grant cycle gave me a deeper understanding of BGV Gives’ transformative impact. Witnessing the diverse needs and inspiring projects presented by grant applicants opened my eyes to the breadth of challenges and aspirations within our community. BGV Gives plays a crucial role in bridging these gaps, fostering growth, and empowering local organizations to make a genuine difference in the lives of countless individuals.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make the world a better place?  

If I were to have a superpower, I’d opt for something like Cupid, but instead of love arrows, I’d shoot arrows at those in need of a boost of happiness or positivity, aiming to make the world a brighter place. 

Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV show that you find yourself recommending to others often?  

My favorite movie is The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. It’s not just a movie; it reflects my own aspirations to break free from routine and embrace the unknown in physical, personal, and professional journeys. And it has an astounding soundtrack! 

A book I often recommended to my colleagues is “Let My People Go Surfing” by Yvon Chouinard, environmentalist and owner of Patagonia Outdoor Clothing & Gear. It’s a captivating story of his unique leadership style and how Patagonia has thrived by prioritizing employee well-being and environmental responsibility, proving that “business unusual” can be the key to long-term growth.  

 

 

Last month, BGV Gives celebrated the 10th anniversary of the BGV Adopt a Family program. BGV partnered with Summit County’s Youth and Family Services to provide gifts to families in need of extra support during the holiday season. Across the company, BGV employees stepped up to bring smiles to 107 individuals from 28 families this holiday season.  

Staff members from the Community Impact department packed up their office brimming with over 50 boxes and bags of gifts and brought them in several carloads to Summit County’s Youth and Family Services, where their staff shared their immense gratitude on behalf of the families they serve.  

Echoing the results of the University of Chicago’s study that shows that found that giving (rather than receiving) leads to long-lasting happiness, team member Carrie Scheick expressed her deep appreciation for the program. “This yearly initiative is one of my favorites. The generosity of BGV employees shines brightly within this program – everyone cares about bringing joy to local families during the holiday season and it just warms my heart! I always love being part of the team that delivers the gifts, as we transform our own office from being inundated with bags of presents to overwhelming (in a good way!) the YFS office.    

BGV Gives extends its thanks to the employees of BGV, who participated in this remarkable act of generosity and of Summit Youth and Family Services, who identified families and coordinated delivery.

The transformation of a former Pizza Hut into a food rescue packaging and storage facility will make a significant impact on the food insecurity in Summit County. CAFE Food Rescue, a grantee of BGV Gives, is breathing new life into the space and repurposing it to serve a vital purpose. This building is being provided by the Town of Silverthorne to support food access programs in Summit County.

CAFE Food Rescue is a Summit nonprofit that increases access to fresh nutritious food for food insecure residents while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions caused by food production and food waste. Diane Calvin, CAFE Food Rescue’s Executive Director, shares that the organization “partners with food donors such as event centers, caterers, restaurants, and grocery stores to collect unused, nutritious food and distribute that food to members of our community facing difficult decisions on how to pay for rent, health care, food, and other necessities. Food is collected and packaged with the help of volunteers and is distributed through community dinners, food pantries, and social service organizations.”

CAFE Food Rescue provides food to 4 community dinners, 5 food pantries and 2 home delivery organizations that collectively serve more than 2000 people every week, making a tangible impact on alleviating food insecurity in the area. Partners include Rotary Dinner at the Elks Club, Father Dyer Church Community Dinner and Food Pantry, St. John’s Church Community Dinner, Lord of the Mountain Day Services, FIRC Food Markets in Dillon and Breckenridge, CAFÉ Food Rescue Pantry at the Summit Community Care Clinic, Dillon Community Church Food Pantry, Smart Bellies and Meals on Wheels.

The necessity of food assistance programs has become increasingly evident due to the challenges posed by the high cost of living in the mountains. With rent soaring, many families find it difficult to make ends meet.

According to the Colorado Center for Law and Policy, a staggering 19% of families in the community are struggling to meet their basic needs. This striking statistic underscores the urgent need for initiatives like CAFE Food Rescue in Summit County. The provision of food assistance not only fills plates but also makes it possible for individuals and families to focus on other critical needs without the constant worry of where their next meal will come from.

This transformation exemplifies the power of collective action in creating lasting positive change for those in need. BGV Gives is immensely proud to stand behind and support such an important and impactful cause within our community.

 

 

Back for the 8th year, the Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk is quickly approaching on June 10th! Help us kick off the summer with this fun and family friendly event at Carter Park.

The 8th Annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk promises a lineup of activities that will put a smile on your face! Lace up your shoes and choose your path: a 5k trail run, a 5k trail walk, or a leisurely 1-mile town walk. Every participant and volunteer will be treated to morning snacks, a heart-healthy lunch, an event t-shirt, and a commemorative gift. But wait, there’s more! There will be live entertainment and prize giveaways, including a chance to win a 7-night vacation with Interval International.

Since 2016, the Heart Health Walk has been an incredible force for good in the Summit County Community, raising an astounding $1,185,000 to date! From after-school programs to CPR/AED training, and backcountry rescue, this event supports initiatives that truly change lives. Because Breckenridge Grand Vacations covers all costs associated with the event, 100% of your ticket or donation will go straight to local Summit County nonprofits.

Three Ways You Can Help:

  1. Register or donate today.
  2. Sign up to volunteer.
  3. Spread the word! Share the Heart Health Walk Facebook event with your audiences.

Enter Code BGVGIVES for $5 off your ticket registration

At BGV, we believe that sustainability goes beyond being a mere buzzword; it’s a lifestyle. This is why we were thrilled to host Earth Week for our entire staff this year! From April 21st-28th, employees had the opportunity to attend a series of events focused on sustainability and environmental awareness.

We kicked off the week by teaming up with the High Country Conservation Center for a “Bust the Recycling Myths” event, which helped to dispel common misconceptions about recycling and provided guidance on how to recycle more effectively. This was a fun and interactive event that bounced from property to property and helped increase employees’ awareness about the importance of proper waste diversion. This event put an emphasis on spelling out what happens to recyclables in Summit County once we put them in the blue bin.

One of the highlights of Earth Week was a facilities tour and presentation by Breck Create. This year, we partnered with Precious Plastic, a world-renowned organization that specializes in turning hard to recycle plastic waste into new products. Their demonstration showcased the innovative ways that plastic waste can be upcycled and inspired us all to think more creatively about reducing our plastic usage. BGV employees were lucky enough to see the whole process, from hard to recycle plastic like sleds and patio chairs transformed into carabiners, coasters, earrings, and even a skateboard.

Finally, we hosted a presentation on home energy audits, which provided practical tips for reducing energy use and saving money on utility bills. This was geared towards both homeowners and renters, and it provided a number of resources including rebate opportunities for energy savings upgrades. This presentation was a great reminder of the many ways that we can all make a positive impact on the environment in our daily lives, even through simple and easy changes.

We were thrilled to see such enthusiastic participation from our employees during Earth Week, and we hope that these events will inspire all of us to continue to prioritize sustainability in our personal and professional lives. Together, we can make a difference for our planet and ensure Breckenridge remains unchanged for future generations.

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Join the Family & Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC) for their largest fundraiser of the year! Debuting this year, the FIRC Night Out will take place on June 9th at the Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge.

This year’s event will feature Brad Montgomery, who specializes in using humor, interactivity, sound, music and visuals to ignite audiences so that they can use happiness as a tool to improve their lives and their jobs.

Family and Interculture Resource Center Development Director Sarah Grant shares, “FIRC Night Out is a chance to connect with community, to laugh, and to give back in a meaningful way. FIRC served nearly 10,000 local workers and families in 2022 through FIRC’s four main program areas: Community Food Markets, Financial Empowerment, Community Health, and Behavioral Health and Wellness. Every donation and dollar raised helps FIRC to continue to meet the increased demand for services in Summit County.”

As a Gold Level sponsor for the event, BGV Gives will host the FIRC Night Out Cocktail Hour from 5:30 – 6:30m. Purchase a ticket today! Your support will help FIRC raise critical funding to support local workers and families in accessing resources needed to thrive in our community.

Governor Polis and the  Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) recently announced this year’s recipients of the Govenor’s Creative Leadership Awards, an annual award program which recognizes Coloradans who have demonstrated a significant commitment to the state’s creative landscape through civic leadership and volunteerism.  President of the Park County Creative Alliance (PCCA) and longtime Park County local Ann Lukacs is one of the 2023 recipients!

Ann was recently certified a Colorado Change Leader by Governor Jared Polis for exceptional community development efforts. As part of her certification, Lukacs created the PCCA, a nonprofit arts alliance dedicated to uniting Park County through the arts. Since December 2018, PCCA has united local artists, delivered educational workshops, created the Art Adventuring in Park County map, launched a successful annual Pass Notes event, and more.

Ann is being awarded the Arts and Community Action Award, which is presented to individuals that have demonstrated selfless service and inspired others to take action or catalyze change in their community using the arts. Artist, photographer, cinematographer, small business owner, and nonprofit board member, she continues to be dedicated to preserving and advancing arts and culture in Colorado and in her community.

“The Governor’s Creative Leadership Award recipients embody the remarkable ways in which arts and culture impact Coloradans’ lives and our communities. Each has made a unique contribution to Colorado, and we are thrilled to recognize their achievements,” said Eve Lieberman, OEDIT Executive Director.

The awards will be presented on June 1, 2023 at the Colorado Creative Industries Summit to be held in Crested Butte.

Learn more about Ann’s career and the good work of the PCAA at parkcountycreativealliance.org.

Read the full, original press release that includes the list of all 2023 award recipients here.