It would be difficult to tell the story of the Vail Valley without the story of the Vail Valley Foundation. President Gerald R. Ford was among those who initiated the project as a way to unify the volunteer spirit and ‘big-idea’ mentality that helped the area mark its place on the international map. In 1981, the Vail Valley Foundation was formed, and has been an integral aspect of local life, culture, sport and education ever since.
Originally named the Vail Associates Foundation, and incorporated as a public charity, the Vail Valley Foundation was created for the purpose of “raising and distributing funds for charitable purposes through the organization of educational, cultural, historical, artistic and athletic performances, events and attractions for the education and benefit of the community.”
Over the next two years, the name was shortened to the Vail Foundation. Then, in December 1983, the name was officially changed to the Vail Valley Foundation in order to “reflect the scope of activities within the Foundation that are directed at the entire Vail Valley area.”
Since those early days, the Vail Valley Foundation has continued to develop and produce programs, events and projects, all in support of the organization’s mission to enhance the quality of life in the Vail Valley by through arts, athletics, and education.
The events, venues and programs that have developed from those efforts are the essence of community, and together with our supporters, volunteers, patrons and donors, we create lifelong connections between all who all who take part, creating the core of what makes the Vail Valley such a special place to be.
Current projects:
Arts
Vail Dance Festival Vilar Performing Arts Center Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater- Amp Summer Concerts
- Hot Summer Nights free concert series
- Community programming