El Pomar Approves $155,800 for Southwest Colorado
Trustees allocated the grants to 19 nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the Southwest region.
Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Philanthropy
El Pomar Foundation trustees approved $155,800 in grants at their most recent meeting. The funds were distributed to 19 nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the Southwest region of Colorado.
Why it matters
The awards support community organizations across Colorado's Southwest region, reflecting the Foundation's regional grant-making structure. The approvals show how regional advisory councils help direct philanthropic funding to local needs.
El Pomar trustees approved $155,800 across 19 recipients in the Southwest region, with individual grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000. The source does not detail how each award will be used or what results are expected.
The players
El Pomar Foundation
A Colorado philanthropic foundation founded in 1937 by Spencer and Julie Penrose that provides general purpose grants across the state.
The details
Each of the Foundation's 11 regional councils advises trustees and recommends grants within its area. The Southwest Regional Council covers Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties, and recipients include organizations in Durango, Pagosa Springs, Cortez, Dove Creek, Bayfield and Silverton.
Timeline
2003: The Regional Partnerships program was established.
1937: Spencer and Julie Penrose founded El Pomar Foundation.
Philanthropic Structure
The grants follow the regional council model the Foundation established through its Regional Partnerships program in 2003, which routes funding through advisory councils covering distinct areas of Colorado.
Nonprofits and government agencies in the Southwest region, including those in Durango, Cortez and Silverton, received direct funding that may support local programs. Residents in these communities may see the effects through the services those organizations provide.
The takeaway
Regional grant councils allow philanthropic funding to reach smaller communities across Colorado. Organizations seeking support can apply on a rolling basis.
Further reading
Explore more philanthropy coverage to see how regional foundations direct funding across Colorado.
More information
View the El Pomar full listing of funds and grant-making areas for details on the Foundation's grant programs.
