The 5 Best Fundraising Events Around Grand County

A donation can keep local radio on the air, help a neighbor reach cancer treatment or introduce a young person to aviation. Across Grand County, fundraising events connect those practical needs with opportunities to gather, perform and participate. The Best of Grand contest highlights these efforts as part of its broader recognition of community life. From auctions and benefit performances to a 5K walk and pancake breakfast, each offers a different way to support local nonprofit programs.

Annual Fundraising Drive

KFFR 88.3 FM’s Annual Fundraising Drive invites listeners to support independent community radio through donations, monthly pledges and matching gifts. During the multiday campaign, volunteer DJs and special guests present live segments featuring local musicians and public affairs discussions. Station Manager Steve Skinner, the board of directors and volunteer programmers coordinate the effort, with local businesses providing matching challenge grants. Contributions sustain local news, music programming, emergency broadcasts and educational outreach.

Grand Gala

Fine dining, live entertainment and charitable giving come together at The Grand Foundation’s annual Grand Gala. The formal evening includes silent and live auctions, along with presentations highlighting the impact of regional nonprofit work. Executive Director Megan Ledin, foundation staff and trustees organize the event with sponsors and hospitality partners. Ticket sales and auction proceeds support Grand County grantmaking in health and human services, arts and culture, education, and recreation.

Taking Steps for Cancer 5K Walk and Auction

Cancer survivors, families and supporters gather each summer for Mountain Family Center’s Taking Steps for Cancer 5K Walk and Auction. The noncompetitive walk is followed by a community lunch, silent auction and remarks honoring local families affected by cancer. Executive Director Carrie Hoffman works with volunteers, medical partners and business sponsors to organize the fundraiser, with all net proceeds benefiting the center’s cancer assistance fund. That support helps Grand County residents cover transportation to off-mountain treatment, lodging, prescriptions and basic living expenses.

Cabaret

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre’s Annual Cabaret gives its professional company a chance to perform beyond the regular mainstage lineup. Presented at the end of the summer repertory season in Grand Lake, the showcase features custom song-and-dance numbers, Broadway classics, personal favorites and comedic revues, frequently accompanied by hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and opportunities to meet performers. Executive Director Michael Querio and the theater’s artistic leadership produce the event with musical directors and trustees. Proceeds support actor housing, youth theater camps and capital improvements.

Fly-in Pancake Breakfast

Pancakes share the bill with aircraft displays at the annual Fly-in Pancake Breakfast hosted by Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1267 at Granby-Grand County Airport’s Emily Warner Field. Families, pilots and aviation enthusiasts gather in airport hangars for breakfast, flight demonstrations and youth aviation activities. Chapter officers, local pilots, airport personnel and volunteers coordinate the event, including educational opportunities connected to programs such as EAA Young Eagles. Funds raised support local aviation scholarships and youth science, technology, engineering and math programs.

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