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.