History

Our grassroots effots have led to $16.5 million dollars in charitable giving.

In 1986, 12 Colorado nonprofits joined together to change the face of workplace giving.  Originally called The Alternative Fund, our organization gave a home to nonprofit organizations that did not fit the mold of existing workplace giving federations.  Our members included grassroots nonprofits and new issue areas such as social justice, respect for all individuals, environmental conservation, and community-owned arts.  Soon after, our founders chose the name "Community Shares of Colorado" and began actively working to expand charitable choice in workplace giving campaigns. 

Community Shares' first workplace giving campaign raised $3,500 dollars.  Community Shares reached its first million dollar campaign in 2002 and has averaged $1.5 million over the past three years.  Since inception, our Colorado-grown community fund has raised $16.5 million for local nonprofit organizations.

Community Share's contributions to the nonprofit community have been recognized both state-wide and nationally for outstanding nonprofit service.

Awards and recognition include:

National Alliance for Choice in Giving

• 2003 Momentum Award

• 2007 Innovation and Excellence Award

Denver Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce

• 2007 Nonprofit Organization of the Year

National Philanthropy Day in Colorado

• 1999 Outstanding Service Organization