2024 Winners

2024 is the 15th anniversary of National Philanthropy Day in Estes Park. Over that time, 150 nominees have been celebrated. Thank you to all the nominators, nominees, awards committee members, and—congratulations to the winners. 

Business PHilanthropist of the Year: The Egg of Estes

Business Philanthropist of the Year: Egg of Estes
Ania and Ryan Leahy, owners of the Egg of Estes, exemplify community spirit through their dedication to local causes and unwavering generosity. The Leahys consistently donate large quantities of food to fundraisers and events, often waking at dawn to prepare hundreds of breakfast burritos or whatever is needed to support the community. Ania serves on the EVCA Board, adding her energy and insight to local nonprofit efforts, while Ryan volunteers as a firefighter, contributing his time to keep Estes Park safe. This year, Ania also participated in Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo, raising substantial funds through creative initiatives like specialty cocktails at their restaurant. The Leahy family’s ongoing contributions—both in time and resources—reflect their deep commitment to Estes Valley. Estes Park is truly a better place with Egg of Estes and the Leahy family being part of it.

Nominees include Estes Park News, Quality Inn of Estes Park - Jurgens Family, TDS Telecom, Estes Park Mountain Shop, Richardson Team Realty -  Mindy Stone and Mike Richardson
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Youth Philanthropist of the Year: Dawn Nguyen

Dawn Nguyen is an Estes Valley youth in charge! She’s made a significant impact in the community through her roles as a Youth Engagement Specialist with Larimer County Health and a dedicated member of Youth in Action. She has led mental health and wellness initiatives, organized workshops reaching hundreds of local youth, and fostered a strong sense of community through volunteer programs. On Student Council, Dawn represents student voices, advocates for their needs, and promotes inclusivity across the school. She also mentors younger students, offering guidance and encouraging them to engage in community service. Dawn’s commitment to youth engagement and community well-being highlights her dedication to creating positive change for her peers and her community.

Nominees included Youth In Action
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Enduring Service Award: Sally and Wayne Park

Since settling in Estes Park in 1998, Sally and Wayne Park have committed themselves wholeheartedly to the community, supporting numerous nonprofits with their time, skills, and resources. They have been active members of Partners since 2001, mentoring five young people, volunteering at events, and sharing their experiences to inspire others. Wayne’s service on the Estes Valley Land Trust board has strengthened the organization’s community engagement, while Sally’s work with Restorative Justice has shaped vital programs, including strategic planning and community conversations. Together, they have enhanced local youth programming through Kiwanis Leadership initiatives and helped create the Girls 8th Grade Career Day. In times of crisis, such as the 2013 flood, they provide hands-on support and follow-up to ensure long-term recovery. Sally’s work with Loving Spirit, where she supports individuals in their grief, further illustrates their compassionate approach to community service. Their dedication to individuals and causes alike is summed up by a heartfelt tribute: “Two amazing people who make our community richer.”

Nominees included Gregg Jurgens, Amy and Todd Plummer

Katie SPeer INdividual Philanthropist of the Year: Autumn Nelson

Autumn Nelson, an immigration attorney, is a remarkable force for change in the Estes Valley, dedicating her time and expertise to help eligible immigrants achieve U.S. citizenship. Recognizing a critical need, Autumn began offering pro bono legal guidance to assess eligibility and coordinate a comprehensive citizenship support initiative. In just one year, she has united seven local organizations in partnership, creating a powerful network that provides citizenship classes, application coaching, and fundraising for filing fees. Thanks to Autumn’s leadership, eight residents have successfully become citizens, and more are enrolled. Her project has rallied nearly 100 community members, friends, and family members in a patriotic and joyful journey, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and inclusion in the Estes Valley. 

Nominees include Anastacia "Staci" Galloway Reed, Bobbie Heisterkamp, One Hundred Women Who Care - Mary Liz Adair, Sue McDermott, Lisa Zahn, Janet Collison
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SHavlik nonprofit of the year: League of women Voters of Estes Park, REcycling COmmittee

The League of Women Voters (LWV) Estes Park’s Community Recycling Committee has been filling a vital gap in local waste management since 2014 through its flagship event, Estes Recycles Day (ERD). This volunteer-led initiative offers Estes Valley residents a safe, accessible way to responsibly dispose of electronic and hazardous waste—essential in a region where recycling infrastructure and disposal options are limited. Without ERD, community members would either bear the steep cost of proper disposal on their own or risk environmental harm by dumping electronics illegally.
Committed to expanding accessibility, LWV recently secured grants and local funding to cover disposal fees, significantly reducing costs for participants. This change led to a 119% increase in waste diversion between 2022 and 2023, collecting over 41,000 lbs. of waste and serving more than 500 cars in a single day. By lowering barriers, LWV has transformed ERD into an inclusive, community-centered event that serves a broader audience each year. Their dedication to economic justice, environmental stewardship, and community well-being is an inspiring example of local nonprofits bridging gaps with passion, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose.

Nominees included Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park, Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, Inc., Estes Valley Crisis Advocates, Estes Valley Land Trust, Partners, United Way of Larimer County

Hall of Fame Year-by-Year

2024
Enduring Service – Sally and Wayne Park
Business Philanthropist of the Year – The Egg of Estes
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Autumn Nelson
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Dawn Nguyen
Shavlik Nonprofit of the Year - League of Women Voters of Estes Park, Recycling Committee

2023
Enduring Service – Cheley Colorado Camps
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Mama Roses and Poppy's Pizza and Grill
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Mindy Stone
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Sophie Kamprath
Shavlik Nonprofit of the Year - Crisis Advocates

2022
Enduring Service – David Hemphill
Business Philanthropist of the Year – You Need Pie!
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Mary Banken
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Valya Tryduhk
Shavlik Nonprofit of the Year - Crossroads Ministry

2021
Enduring Service – Andy Morgan
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Bank of Colorado
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Debbie Holmes
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Gabe Housewright

2020
Took the year off for COVID~ 

2019
Enduring Service - Kathy Littlejohn
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Bank of Estes Park
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Diane Schriver
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Jennifer Johnson

2018
Enduring Service – Ruth Hess
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Village Thrift Shop
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Gail Albers
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Lydia Pita

2017
Enduring Service – Pieter and Helen Hondius
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Mountain Home Cafe’, Olga & Enrique family and staff
Business Philanthropist of the the Year – Snowy Peaks Winery – Candice Mohr
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Terry Rizzuti
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Micah Brown

2016
Enduring Service – Jean Austin
Enduring Service – Bill and Sue Pinkham
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Anthony DeSousa – Antonio’s Pizza
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year – Kristen Berg
Youth Philanthropist of the Year – Estes Park High School/Environmental Sciences Class

2015
Enduring Service Award – Bob & Ludie Dickeson
Business Philanthropist of the Year Award – Kris & Gary Hazelton – Estes Park News
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year Award – Judi Cunningham
Youth Philanthropist of the Year Award – Will Thomas

2014 
Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year Award – Sherry Davis
Enduring Service Award – Jayne Zmijewski
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Amy Hamrick – Kind Coffee

2013
Individual Philanthropist of the Year – Kathy Littlejohn (Kids Cafe’, Fine Arts Guild)
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Rocky Mountain Park Inn
Lifetime Philanthropist Award – David Krumme

2012 
Individual Philanthropist of the Year – Don Widrig
Business Philanthropist of the Year – Jared Andrew, Store Manager at Safeway Food Store #0920
Individual/Business Philanthropists of the Year – Rob and Julie Pieper, owners of Poppy’s and Mama Rosa’s

2011
Philanthropist (donor and/or grantmaker) – Peggy and John Lynch (major gift to EVICS)
Philanthropist Honorable Mention – Estes Park Community Thrift Shop
Outstanding Volunteer – Andi Smith (Elizabeth Guild)
Outstanding Volunteer Honorable Mention – Marilyn Vergoth (Estes Park Medical Center)
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2010 Special Recognition – Frank Shavlik (retiring EPNRC board member)

Who is Katie Speer?

In honor of the memory of Katie Speer, the Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center hereby designates its annual award, “The Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year Award,” effective 2014, and for all years hereafter.

Katie Speer was instrumental in the founding of the EPNRC, and for many years served as a member of its Board of Directors.  An outspoken advocate for the causes and organizations she espoused, Katie was a strong leader, putting her actions behind her words.  She was a gifted writer, and demonstrated time and again her skills at writing successful grant proposals that benefited dozens of nonprofit organizations in the Estes Valley.  Her perceptive ability to seek out and secure funding for organizations was legendary: untold thousands of dollars were thus channeled to Estes Park charities and nonprofits, enabling them to achieve their missions to serve others.
 
On behalf of the EPNRC, Katie acted as fiscal agent for many fledgling organizations, enabling them to get a foothold toward financial sustainability.
 
Katie’s selfless service on behalf of others earned her, among other recognitions, the “Citizen of the Year” award from the Town of Estes Park.
 
It is fitting, therefore, that the Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center designate its annual award to recognize the value and importance of  philanthropy in our community as the Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year Award in memory of her steadfast commitment to the spirit and achievement of philanthropy.
 
2014 EPNRC Board