About the Estes Park Education Foundation
Our Mission: Inspiring community investment in exemplary student learning experiences today, to develop our citizens of tomorrow.
Our Vision: With the support of our community, all Estes Park School District R-3 students graduate as thriving, successful, responsible citizens.
Our Pillars
The Values of the Foundation are expressed as the Pillars needed to support accomplishing of our Mission and Vision.
Experiential Learning
Give students knowledge, critical thinking, and problem solving skills.
Support of District Teachers and Staff
Provide supplemental assistance as well as appreciation for the work that they do for our students.
Innovations
Support new ideas and strategies for learning.
Student Support
To assure that they have the resources needed to participate in school and in extra-curricular activities, youth sports, and outdoor recreation.
Building Community
Promote a culture of seamless unity between the schools and the rest of the community to optimize learning.
Wellness
As an integral part of learning and being successful in school and life, including physical activities, youth sports, and outdoor recreation.
Our History
The Estes Park Education Foundation (EPEF) is a growing nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students and supporting the Estes Park School District. Established in December 2018 and led by its first official board in June 2019, EPEF began its work just months before the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this early hurdle, the Foundation has steadily built momentum, reputation and capacity to serve our schools.
EPEF is an all-volunteer working board of directors—meaning we have no overhead costs. Nearly every dollar we raise directly supports programs, projects, and initiatives that align with our mission and vision.
Through our six core pillars, we fund innovative ideas, foster collaboration and help ensure every student in Estes Park can thrive. We also partner with other local nonprofits and pursue grants to extend our impact.
Our signature annual event, Pumpkins & Pilsners, has become a beloved community tradition—bringing together thousands of attendees each October. Thanks to growing community engagement, more donors are contributing to our mission, and more teachers and staff are turning to EPEF for support through our open grant process.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected future for Estes Park students.