The Summit Foundation has awarded $499,972 to 45 nonprofit agencies providing services in Summit, Park & Lake counties, a 4 percent increase over last December's grant cycle that comes at a time when many organizations are struggling for financing.

"The Summit Foundation is pleased to partner with 45 nonprofit organizations that provide vital services & improve the quality of life in Summit County & our neighboring communities," said Jan Coles, chairwoman of the foundation's grants committee.

Recognizing the struggles many families are facing in this difficult economy, the committee emphasized funding to agencies that provide for the basic needs of individuals & families.

The Summit Foundation awards grants semi-annually, in June & December. During 2008, a total of $796,840 was awarded by the foundation to 78 nonprofit agencies.

In addition, $149,000 was awarded in college scholarships this year to graduating high-school seniors & college freshman.

"The Summit Foundation is proud to have been able to increase its funding in this challenging economic environment," said Cary Cooper, the foundation board president. "And we could not have increased our awards without the generous support we receive from our donors. The Summit County nonprofit agencies also need to be recognized for their tremendous efforts in providing programs & services to all sectors of our community."

The funding was allocated in six major categories. A total of 15 health & human service agencies received $252,220, with an additional $28,000 allocated to meet additional basic needs throughout the winter. These distributions comprise 56 percent of the funds awarded.

Another nine organizations offering educational programs & services received $110,130 & eight art & culture organizations received a total of $48,500. Three environmental organizations received $20,000. A total of $27,000 was awarded to five nonprofit sports & recreation organizations.

In addition, the foundation presented $14,122 to four nonprofit organizations responsible for programs or projects in Park & Lake counties.

Grants were awarded from the foundation & several donor advised funds including The Lanzmeier/Williams Advised Fund, the Vick/Chem Advised Fund, the Summit Association of Realtors Charitable Fund, the Grand Lodge at Peak 7 Advised Fund, the Eileen & Paul Finkel Fund, the Oshlo Family Fund, the Millisor Family Fund & the Breckenridge & Keystone Ski Resort Advised Fund.

Since it began making grants in 1986, the foundation has awarded $10.5 million in grants & scholarships.

It took nine years for the foundation to award its first $1 million, and only four more years to surpass the $2 million mark. Over the past 10 years, another $8.2 million has been awarded. Over the organization's 24-year history, a total of $10,544,836 has been awarded in the form of grants & scholarships.

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

The cornerstone for the foundation's fundraising efforts is a transferable ski pass provided by Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Copper Mountain Resort, Keystone Resort, Winter Park & Vail & Beaver Creek Resorts.

Additional funds are raised from a variety of annual special events, including The Summit Foundation Mountain Art Gathering, The Summit Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament, the Summit County Parade of Homes & the Rubber Duck Race.

In addition, 18 entities participate in the foundation's employee giving program, which raises significant dollars through payroll deductions at businesses throughout the community.

The foundation welcomes contributions from everyone in the community. For additional information about the grant program or about contributing to or volunteering with the foundation at an upcoming event, call (970) 453-5970 or visit the website at www.summitfoundation.org.

Daily News Staff Report