2023 Spotlight Projects

YVSC InternShip Program - $10,000

Yampa Valley Sustainability Council's internship program intends to connect motivated students and young professionals with training and experience that puts the on track to sustainability professions.

The 12-week program brings interns into  YVSC programs addressing sustainability issues in the Yampa Valley, while providing them with training and on-the-ground experience in nonprofit work. Using a project-based approach, participants apply what they learn through the internship to contribute to, expand on or develop a meaningful environmental project within our community.

Moniker Foundation has committed to funding the program for 2 years, totaling $20,000. 

Youth Philanthropy Program - $8,000

In partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Colorado, we have established a youth philanthropy program that encourages youth to give back using their time, treasures, and talents. Students engage in lessons about philanthropy and community. From there, they select local nonprofits to work with for a service project, volunteer day, or fundraiser. After volunteering, Moniker Foundation awards the selected nonprofits with a grant of $1,000-$2,000. In 2023, students selected Lift Up Routt County, Warhorse Ranch, Friends of the Yampa, and United Way.

Since its inception in 2021 our Youth Philanthropy program has provided grants and volunteer services to over 12 organizations. We are proud of its success and plan to continue it through 2024 and beyond.

Oso Outdoors - $4,500

Oso Outdoors increases opportunities and dismantles barriers in order for immigrants, non-English speakers and other underrepresented communities in the mountains to be able to access the outdoors and public lands. Oso Outdoors is a progressive, inclusive, and sustainable effort that is led by people from the mountain immigrant and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.  

The program includes snowboarding at A-basin, hiking and biking days, partnerships with other outdoor programs, and advocacy for the BIPOC community in the outdoors throughout Summit County. 

Moniker Foundation has supported the Oso Outdoors program since 2022, totaling $14,500. ​

Other 2023 Projects Completed

  • The Cycle Effect - $10,000
  • CMC Trailblaizers Scholarship Program- $10,000
  • Theatre Silco Dual Language Program- $10,000
  • LiftUp Routt County Greenhouse - $5,000
  • Eagle Valley Community Foundation- $5,000
  • Mountain Scholars Student Relief Fund- $5,000