Golden Community Member Spotlight
Lynn Conrad
Tell us a little about yourself and your connections to the Golden community.
We've been part of the Golden community for 27 years. When Pat and I were deciding where to live, Pat wanted the mountains and I wanted the city—Golden was the perfect balance We quickly formed lifelong friendships with other parents at the park and through the Golden Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, Golden has become the place where our work, creativity, friendships, and sense of belonging have all grown together.
Share your favorite memory of Golden.
We have so many memories over the years, but what stands out most is participating in Golden’s 150-Year Parade with our two kids and friends. We all painted ourselves gold and danced through town behind a gold VW bus, stopping occasionally to break into the Hustle. It was pure joy—playful, messy, and full of laughter—and it perfectly captured the sense of community and fun that makes Golden so special to us.
What are the elements that strike you as most significant for our community?
What makes Golden truly special is its strong sense of connection and commitment to one another. From local organizations and businesses to shared spaces like parks and cultural & arts centers, the town thrives because people are invested in the community and willing to contribute their time, talent, and resources. That spirit of care and engagement defines Golden.
How would you like Golden to look in 10–20 years?
In 10–20 years, I hope Golden continues to honor its small-town character while thoughtfully growing to meet the needs of future generations. I’d love to see a town that still values creativity, connection, and community involvement, where people feel rooted and supported even as the town evolves.
Tell us about the most meaningful gift you’ve made to GCF or another organization, and/or why you like to give to GCF.
Our connection to the Golden Civic Foundation began through Baby Doe’s Clothing, where we first saw how local donations could make a real difference. As time passed and we were in a position to offer financial support, we struggled to narrow down our choices—there were so many causes and programs in Golden that mattered to us. As we learned more about GCF, we realized it could serve as a single, trusted way to support all the parts of our community that we love. Giving through GCF feels deeply personal because it allows us to invest in the people and places that have shaped our lives over the past 27 years.
When have you felt proud to be connected to GCF?
I’ve felt proud to be connected to GCF as we’ve come to see the depth and reach of its impact. Watching the Foundation support and strengthen the fabric of the community has reinforced how important it is to have an organization so deeply rooted in Golden’s well-being.
Traci Lacey
What are the elements that strike you as most significant for our community?
What really stands out to me about Golden is the strong sense of belonging here. People genuinely care about one another, and it shows in the way neighbors look out for each other and relationships are built. Our local businesses play a huge role in that, too. Many of them give back not because they have to, but because they truly love this town and want to see it thrive. That generosity helps preserve Golden’s character and strengthens the connections between residents, visitors, and local organizations. It’s that shared pride and care that creates the “magic” of Golden and makes it something worth passing down to future generations.
How would you like Golden to look in 10-20 years?
When I think about Golden 10 to 20 years from now, I picture a community that’s still thriving with independent, locally owned businesses and that unmistakable “Old Town” feel. I hope Golden continues to grow in a thoughtful way—supporting a strong local economy while holding onto the small-town charm, historic character, and sense of community that make it such a welcoming and special place.
Tell us about the most meaningful gift you've made to GCF or another organization, and/or why you like to give to GCF.
For me, one of the most meaningful ways I’ve given back has been through becoming a Founding Member of the Golden Legacy Fund. It’s important to me to help ensure Golden continues to thrive not just now, but well into the future. Knowing that this fund supports the people, businesses, and organizations that make Golden such a special place reinforces why long-term investment in our community matters so much.
When have you felt proud to be connected to GCF?
I’ve felt especially proud to be connected to the Golden Civic Foundation after seeing firsthand just how much of an impact it has. Before working with GCF, I didn’t fully realize how deeply the Foundation supports the community. It didn’t take long to see how essential it is—from supporting local nonprofits and civic initiatives to strengthening small businesses and protecting what makes Golden, Golden. Seeing the real, tangible difference GCF makes has made me incredibly proud to be part of an organization that truly invests in the heart of the town.
In your opinion, what is the most impactful service/program we offer and why is that important to you?
When it comes to impact, I don’t think it comes down to one single program or service. To me, the real impact comes from the people behind the work. I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside an amazing staff and Board of Directors who bring so much care, dedication, and heart to everything they do. Their commitment to Golden is genuine, and it’s clear this work is a labor of love. That passion is what makes the Foundation so effective—and being part of that effort is what makes the experience so meaningful.
How do you know that your philanthropy investments meet your objectives?
I look at the success of philanthropy in a few different ways. Economically, a healthy town says a lot—when local businesses are doing well, jobs are stable, and people have access to what they need, it shows that community support is making a real difference. But giving isn’t only about money. Volunteering time and skills is just as important. That kind of involvement builds stronger connections, trust, and a sense of shared responsibility, all of which help a community truly thrive.
What inspires you to give as a Golden Legacy Fund Founding Member AND member of the Keystone Monthly Giving circle?
What inspires me to give as a Golden Legacy Fund Founding Member and a Keystone Monthly Giving Circle member is knowing that my support helps people and organizations reach their goals. Whether it’s helping current and future business owners succeed, supporting long-standing local businesses, or strengthening civic organizations, giving back helps preserve Golden’s character and close-knit feel. It’s about continuing a tradition of caring for this town—one that both longtime residents and newcomers can be proud to be part of.
