RISING IN STRENGTH
LETTER FROM CEO AND BOARD PRESIDENT
Dear Friends, Partners, and Supporters, ¡Muchas gracias!
It is with deep pride and profound gratitude that we share the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado’s (LCFC) 2024 Annual Report. This past year was truly historic. Together, we invested more than $14.8 million across Colorado communities—our largest single-year investment to date. This included a one-time opportunity to distribute $13 million through the Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant Program.
Your support allowed LCFC to do what we do best: work with and for community.
We strengthened leaders by walking alongside community changemakers as they envisioned and expanded their community impact. From our Executive Director Healing Retreats in Taos, to Leadership Roundtables across the state, to one-on-one coaching and mentoring, we ensured our leaders were not only equipped—but cared for. We also celebrated Latino leadership across Colorado through the Corazón Legacy Celebration, a powerful evening recognizing our amazing leaders.
We strengthened nonprofits by investing in their long-term infrastructure. Through our Small Nonprofit Infrastructure (NPI) grants and the Adelante Colorado capacity-building program, we partnered with over 160 organizations—Latino/BIPOC/LGBTQ+, and/or rural-led—to build internal capacity, sustain their operations, and deepen their impact. Adelante’s first cohort graduated this year, with 22 organizations growing their capacity to better serve their community.
We strengthened communities by ensuring that solutions were led by those closest to the issues. We expanded our partnerships through initiatives like Power Together, which equipped local community leaders to co-create strategies for energy equity. We deepened our regional support in places like the San Luis Valley and supported cultural moments like our evening with Latina author Silvia Moreno-García, which celebrated storytelling and the power of Latina voices.
We continued to play a leadership role in the Communities Lead Communities Thrive coalition, helping raise funds to bring on a managing director to build a stronger united coalition that brings resources to our BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and rural-serving nonprofits. None of this would have been possible without you.
In our work with Power Together we have shown that change can be made because of mandates, but from shared vision, trust, and mutual investment. At LCFC, we are not just building programs; we are building movements— led by community, sustained by relationships, and strengthened by your ongoing support.
As we reflect on 2024, we see not only what we’ve accomplished—but what we are capable of when we lead together.
With heartfelt thanks,
Carlos Martínez
(Signature forthcoming)
Elsa Holguin President & CEO Board Chair
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
Invested over $13.2 million in grants to nonprofits
Invested over $1.6 million in community programming
Graduated 22 organizations in our Adelante Colorado cohort training
Launched our first major private/public partnership, Power Together
Our Communities of Color Loan Fund reached $1.5 million in loans
19 leaders participated in Leadership Healing Retreats
Celebrated courageous leadership and visionary action at the Corazón Legacy Celebration
200+ participants in our Leadership Roundtables
“The NPI grant made such an impact for us, and we remain
so grateful. We were able to produce videos to share stories about how we provide outdoor sports programs to children, adults and veterans with physical disabilities and their families.”
RENEE BERNHARD, ADAPTIVE ADVENTURES
Powering Potential: A New Era of Nonprofit Investment The NPI Grants
In 2024, the LCFC ushered in a historic shift in Colorado’s philanthropic and public funding landscape through its leadership of the Nonprofit Infrastructure (NPI) grantmaking program—a bold and equity-driven initiative that made unprecedented investments in the operational strength of historically underfunded organizations.
Through tireless advocacy, LCFC played a lead role in securing a statewide commitment to earmark $35 million for historically marginalized and underresourced community nonprofits. This victory was not only a milestone for Colorado, but a national first: no other state has intentionally prioritized infrastructure funding at this scale for organizations led by and serving marginalized and underresourced communities.
As a result, LCFC partnered with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and seven Regional Access Partners to launch a statewide
strategy rooted in language justice, accessibility, and trust-based grantmaking. In 2024 , LCFC awarded over $13.1 million to 164 nonprofits in 12 counties. These grants supported mission-critical infrastructure needs, including staff development, technology, financial systems, and governance— ensuring organizations could not only survive but thrive.
The NPI program wasn’t just about distributing funds—it was about redistributing power, elevating community voice, and shifting philanthropic norms to reflect the reality that infrastructure is impact. By boldly advocating for—and executing—a community-first funding strategy, LCFC is proving what’s possible when public investment aligns with racial equity and community leadership. This is more than a grant program; it is a blueprint for a new era of nonprofit investment—centered in trust, grounded in justice, and driven by the communities it serves.
Leadership Roundtables
Capacity & Infrastructure Needs of Grantees
The retreats and LRTs have been effective strategies to deepen relationships and belonging, strengthen peer networks of support, manage burnout, and build leadership sustainability.
DATA/IT
COMMS STRATEGICPLANNING OTHER PROGRAM EXPANSION PROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT
From our Grantees
“This opportunity has been nothing short of transformative. The NPI grant has allowed us to strategically invest in systems, tools, and partnerships that are already strengthening our capacity and sustainability in real, tangible ways. Partnering with LCFC and DOLA through this program has been both humbling and energizing. We’ve gained clarity in our governance, deepened our internal planning capacity, and grown more confident in telling our organizational story—all of which we know will serve our community for years to come. It has made an enduring difference for us, and we are sincerely grateful.”
VICTOR NGO-SMITH, NEW COTTAGE ARTS
“We were able to complete an organizational assessment and identified key areas to restart our case management program for Indian child welfare cases, update our resource and referral process, and develop a youth program that meets the needs of children experiencing instability and finding a place of belonging.”
DENVER INDIAN FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER
“Through our grant, we were able to activate a bilingual newsletter for parents, a newsletter for teachers, and one for donors. We also provided professional development to our teachers to active mindfulness techniques to assist their students manage their anxiety, stress and hopelessness. ” GLOWMUNDO
STRENGTHENING NONPROFITS
Adelante Colorado: A Journey of Growth, Leadership, and Liberation
In 2024, the first cohort of Adelante Colorado proudly graduated—marking the end of a bold three-year journey and the beginning of lasting impact across communities throughout the state. What began as an ambitious pilot evolved into one of the most culturally grounded and transformational capacity-building programs ever launched in Colorado.
Adelante—which means forward—was created by the LCFC, to do something rarely seen in philanthropy: invest deeply and unapologetically in Latinoserving organizations, many of which had long been overlooked or underfunded. The program was about far more than grants—it was about affirming identity, building trust, and creating the space for leaders to dream bigger, lead bolder, and serve more powerfully.
Over three years, 22 organizations across Colorado—from urban Denver to rural Alamosa—were supported with $2 million in flexible funding, personalized coaching, leadership development, and peer learning rooted in cultural values. The organizations represented a vibrant cross-section of sectors—arts, education, mental health, youth development, immigration justice, and others—each brought their unique vision for change. The impact was both quantitative and deeply personal. Nearly every organization saw measurable growth—100% reported strengthened internal capacity, 82% increased their budgets, and many doubled their staff or launched new initiatives. But perhaps more importantly, the leaders found a rare sense of belonging.
“Adelante has instilled in us a sense of collaboration and interconnectedness within the Latino community,” one grantee shared. “It reminded us that community is at the center—and we are not alone.”
Organizations used the support to stabilize their operations, improve governance, invest in technology, and deepen their reach. Whether it was opening a cultural arts center, expanding trauma-informed services for youth, or building power through grassroots organizing, each grantee turned the investment into action and lasting change.
Adelante Colorado is more than a program. It is a movement of leaders reclaiming their power, organizations stepping into their full potential, and communities becoming the architects of their own futures. As the first cohort steps forward, stronger and more united than ever, they pave the way for a new generation of nonprofits—ready to rise, lead, and thrive.
A special thanks to the Colorado Health Foundation for their generous support of Adelante Colorado.
View the full report of the Adelante program!
Colorado Communities of Color Loan Fund: Investing in Wealth, Power & Sustainability
The Communities of Colorado Loan Fund (CCC Loan Fund) is LCFC’s groundbreaking revolving loan initiative designed to break cycles of financial inequity and build lasting economic power in communities of color. In 2024, LCFC strengthened its commitment by revising key funding policies and restructuring its processes, increasing access and flexibility for nonprofits. To date, the fund has distributed nearly $1.5 million in loans, fueling organizations working to expand their infrastructure, launch new ventures, and serve their communities.
As one grantee shared, “We had the tremendous opportunity to update our outdated tracking systems, purchase much needed software, hire a consultant to review our Vision, Mission, Values and brand identity, the work we are able to do with the loan is invaluable to our growth for years to come.”
This testimonial underscores the ripple effect of strategic investment: better systems, stronger governance, and enhanced capacity to drive community impact.
What makes the CCC Loan Fund truly revolutionary is where, how, and for whom the capital flows— directly into Latino and BIPOC nonprofits that have historically been excluded from mainstream lending. By prioritizing affordable, mission-aligned loans instead of grants, LCFC is helping these organizations acquire assets, launch social enterprises, and build sustainable futures—not just survive, but thrive.
In doing so, the CCC Loan Fund is redefining what equitable economic development looks like, proving that financial tools—when wielded with purpose—can transform infrastructures, livelihoods, and generational opportunity in communities across Colorado.
STRENGTHENING LEADERS
Executive Director Retreats: Healing, Connection, and Leadership Renewal
In 2024, the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) hosted two deeply transformative Executive Director Healing Retreats in Taos, New Mexico—one for men in August and one for women in October. These retreats brought together 19 nonprofit leaders from across Colorado, representing a wide range of ages, lived experiences, and Latino origin and heritage. Though their paths were different, participants came together to build a brotherhood and sisterhood rooted in trust, healing, and shared purpose—one that extended far beyond their time in Taos.
Designed as a culturally grounded space, the retreats offered guided reflection, peer learning,
and healing practices. Leaders stepped away from the constant demands of their roles to focus on their own well-being, reconnect with their purpose, and strengthen their relationships with others doing transformative work across the state.
As Jamie Dominguez, Co-Director of Shooting Stars in Alamosa, reflected: “Never in my life had I experienced such a life transforming experience. I was able to connect so many parts of my life and find true liberation. The fuel I needed to continue my work in community.” These retreats are a testament to LCFC’s belief that strong, resilient leaders are essential to thriving communities—and that healing is a form of leadership.
Leadership Roundtables:
Growing Together in Unity and Purpose
In 2024, LCFC’s Leadership Roundtables offered a powerful and affirming space for leaders to grow together—not in competition, but in community. Designed to foster peer learning, strategic dialogue, and collective care, these convenings brought together leaders from across Colorado to strengthen their leadership and deepen their impact. Over the course of seven roundtables, more than 300 participants came together to explore topics essential to nonprofit sustainability, including Nonprofit Revenue Models, Land Acquisition & Rematriation, Earned Income Strategies, Board Development, Executive Coaching, and Managing Burnout.
Each roundtable included simultaneous Spanish interpretation, reflecting LCFC’s deep commitment to language justice and ensuring accessibility for all participants.
These gatherings created a culturally grounded and supportive environment, where leaders could speak openly, exchange insights, and feel seen—not only as professionals, but as whole people. As one participant shared:
“Being in a space like this is rare—where people really listen, really care, and where you don’t have to prove yourself. We’re all here to lift each other up.”
In a world that often isolates leaders, these roundtables have become a source of strength, unity, and shared purpose—a testament to LCFC’s belief that when leaders rise together, our communities thrive.
Leading by Example: A CEO’s Commitment to Cultivating Community Leadership
In 2024, Carlos Martinez, President & CEO of LCFC, made leadership development personal. With an unwavering belief that strong communities require strong leaders, Carlos invested his time, expertise, and heart into one-on-one coaching and mentoring sessions with over 40 Latino and BIPOC leaders across Colorado.
These were not surface-level conversations—they were intentional, strategic, and deeply rooted in LCFC’s values of equity and collective growth. From strategic planning and board development to fundraising, financial planning, and career navigation, Carlos created space for leaders to build confidence, sharpen their skills, and envision bold futures.
This hands-on approach reflects LCFC’s philosophy: that investing in leaders is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the nonprofit ecosystem. By showing up with authenticity and accountability, Carlos is not just leading an organization—he’s building a legacy of leadership in our community.
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
Corazón Legacy Celebration: Honoring the Heart of Our Comunidad
Held in 2024 as the Corazón Legacy Celebration, this gathering celebrated bold leadership while continuing to recognize the generosity of our supporters.
More than 200 supporters, partners, grantees, and community members gathered to honor the heart and soul of Latino leadership in Colorado.
These honorees reflect the diverse brilliance of Latino Colorado—leaders who inspire, invest, and ignite change across generations.
AWARDEES
Nelly Garcia, Emerging Leader
A rising force in the Western Slope, Nelly is a passionate advocate for youth and rural communities, uplifting voices that are too often unheard.
Lisa Zúñiga Ramírez, Philanthropist of the Year
A dedicated champion of equity in giving, Lisa uses her influence and heart to move resources to the communities that need them most.
Dr. Lydia Prado, Soul of Leadership (SOL)
A lifelong visionary in mental health, community development, and place-based equity, Lydia’s work reflects deep, soulful leadership rooted in love and justice.
Power Together: A Model for CommunityCentered Energy Solutions
Power Together: Energy Solutions for Colorado Communities TM is a pilot partnership between the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) and Xcel Energy Colorado. It reimagines how institutions engage with communities, particularly those whose lived experiences have long been excluded from how programs are designed and delivered.
While many households qualify for programs like the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), data suggest that a large portion do not enroll. This is often because the systems are difficult to find, navigate, or trust.
Power Together responds by investing in Community Action Partners (CAPs)—trusted local leaders in Denver, Aurora, the Front Range, and the San Luis Valley, with more regions to come in 2026. These are not temporary outreach workers. They are longstanding connectors who understand both the needs of their communities and how systems operate.
True to LCFC’s Community Democracy approach, Community Action Partners (CAPs) helped shape
the program from the beginning and continue to guide its direction through real-time feedback and dialogue with residents. Rather than simply promoting available offerings, CAPs help assess how people learn about Xcel’s energy programs, what prevents them from enrolling, and what would make the process more welcoming and easier to navigate. Whether it is Billing Assistance, Weatherization, Solar incentives, or Electric Vehicle rebates, the insights helps LCFC surface patterns and priorities that can improve how partner systems respond to what communities say they need –including future program design, community wellbeing strategies, and broader policy alignment.
Thus, LCFC’s role goes beyond helping communities navigate existing systems. It works with partners to improve how those systems function in the first place.
To explore Power Together, or to connect with a CAP in your region with whom you can share your energy journey with, visit: PowerTogetherColorado.org.
Rooted in Region, Rising in Power
In 2024, the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) deepened its commitment to rural equity by continuing to walk alongside grassroots leaders in the San Luis Valley—one of the most culturally rich regions in the state. Through our ongoing partnership with the Soul Players of the Valley (SPV) coalition, LCFC provided critical support to elevate their leadership, expand their visibility, and catalyze meaningful investment in the communities of Antonito, Capulin, San Luis, and South Alamosa.
LCFC helped SPV host its first-ever Funder Cohort meeting, connecting local community organizers directly with statewide philanthropic partners exploring new opportunities for regional investment. Beyond convening, LCFC also delivered strategic planning sessions to several coalition members, helping them clarify their vision, strengthen organizational infrastructure, and prepare for long-term sustainability. We are also supporting SPV in its journey toward formal nonprofit status, guiding them through the process of securing 501(c)(3) designation.
This is what regional equity looks like: communityrooted coalitions, supported by culturally aligned philanthropy, leading transformative change from the ground up.
Communities Lead, Communities Thrive: Advancing Equity Through Collective Power
In 2024, the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) deepened its leadership and commitment to equity by serving on the steering committee for the Communities Lead, Communities Thrive (CLCT) coalition—an alliance of grassroots and nonprofit leaders advancing justice and opportunity for BIPOC and LGBTQ+, communities across Colorado.
Working in close partnership with coalition members, LCFC played a pivotal role in securing a historical multi-million investment for nonprofits led by and serving historically marginalized communities—ensuring that those closest to the challenges are resourced to lead the solutions. This landmark win is a testament to what is possible when community-rooted organizations unite with shared vision and aligned action.
LCFC also led efforts to formalize the coalition’s structure, securing critical funds to hire its first Managing Director, Marco Dorado, an accomplished policy and advocacy leader. Under Marco’s guidance, the coalition is undergoing a thoughtful strategic planning process to strengthen governance, clarify priorities, and expand its statewide impact.
Throughout the year, LCFC helped convene CLCT’s Steering Committee in two powerful retreats, in January and November, where members engaged in deep reflection, collaboration, and long-term visioning. These gatherings reaffirmed the coalition’s mission: to ensure that communities not only have a seat at the table, but help build the table.
Through CLCT, LCFC continues to demonstrate the power of shared leadership and trusted partnerships, amplifying the voices of communities that have long been excluded from decision-making—and building systems that are truly designed with and for them.
Connecting Community Through Culture: An Evening with Silvia Moreno-Garcia
In October, LCFC partnered with the Denver Public Library to host a powerful cultural moment: an evening with awardwinning author Silvia Moreno-Garcia. The event was more than just a literary gathering—it was a celebration of identity, imagination, and the rich storytelling tradition of Latinas.
Before taking the stage, Silvia spent meaningful time with emerging Latina writers at Cafe Brewja and later with the Lighthouse Writers Workshop’s Writing in Color group— offering encouragement, wisdom, and cultural affirmation. These intimate conversations reflected LCFC’s deep commitment to nurturing spaces where culture and community come together, creating a sense of belonging that empowers artists to lead with authenticity.
The evening culminated in a compelling author talk, moderated by former Colorado Poet Laureate Bobby LeFebre, where over 230 community members gathered to explore themes of heritage, horror, and resistance in Silvia’s acclaimed works like Mexican Gothic. Together, they celebrated the boldness of Latina voices—and the stories that continue to shape and reflect our lived experience.
This unforgettable night embodied LCFC’s core belief: that culture is not separate from community power—it is essential to it. Through events like this, LCFC continues to elevate art, literature, and storytelling as vital threads in the fabric of Latino identity and leadership.
MUCHAS GRACIAS TO OUR DONORS
With Deepest Gratitude to Our Supporters
At the Latino Community Foundation of Colorado, we know that the impact we create together is only possible because of the generosity and trust of our supporters. Whether you gave your time, your resources, or your voice— you made a difference. And for that, we are deeply grateful.
We do not take your partnership for granted. Your belief in our mission and in the power of Latino communities has fueled transformative change across Colorado this year—from record-breaking grantmaking to deep investments in leadership, culture, and community resilience. Every milestone we reached was made possible by your commitment to equity and justice.
In honoring your generosity, we also honor your privacy. As many of our supporters have requested to remain anonymous, we will not be publishing a donor list this year. Please know that your contribution, whether named or unnamed, is cherished. We see you. We value you. And we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
WITH HUMILITY AND GRATITUDE, THE LCFC TEAM
One Community, One Legacy
LCFC’s One Community. One Legacy. campaign is a visionary $20M initiative building a Latino-forward philanthropic foundation in Colorado. It channels long-term support for leadership, economic development, and nonprofit capacity—empowering Latino communities for generations. People can join by giving, pledging, matching, sharing, and engaging in community partnerships.
Every contribution—large or small—helps build lasting impact for Latino communities across Colorado.
To learn more about LCFC’s endowment, please contact Carlos Martinez, President & CEO at cmartinez@Latinocfc.org or (720) 923-7612
A Year of Financial Strength, Growth, and Accountability
The Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) closed out 2024 in a position of exceptional financial health, thanks to the enduring trust and generosity of our supporters. It was a record-breaking year—not only in revenue and grantmaking, but in measurable impact across our state.
With a total of $17.8 million in revenue and $15.5 million in expenses, LCFC remained laser-focused on directing resources where they matter most. An extraordinary 95.2% of all expenses supported direct community work, while just 4.8% supported administrative and fundraising needs—a reflection of our deep commitment to impact and efficiency.
We are proud to report that LCFC once again received a clean independent audit, affirming the strength and transparency of our financial systems. In addition, we underwent and passed a rigorous federal single audit— another clear indicator of our sound fiscal stewardship.
LCFC’s total audited year-end assets reached $16.7 million, representing a growth of more than 15% over the previous year.
This remarkable year was made possible by the shared vision and investment of our community, and we remain committed to honoring that trust with transparency, impact, and a steadfast focus on building a just and vibrant future for all Latino Coloradans.
$17,802,103
Interest & Realized Gains
$1,103,978
Contracted Services
$1,802,414
Total Expenses
$15,559,484
Management & Fundraising
$712,165
Community Program
$1,638,350
Contributions & Grants
$14,895,711
Grants
$13,208,969
JAMIE BAZELMAN, Executive Assistant/Office Coordinator
JOANNA CINTRÓN, Vice President of Development & Communications
IRIANA CORRAL, Development & Communications Coordinator
KEN CRUZ, Director of Programs
OLIVIA GARCIA, Vice President of Organizational Development*
RACHEL GRIEGO, Senior VP of Community Innovation & Strategic Partnerships
ANA IBANEZ, Program Assistant*
STAFF: 2024 & Today BOARD
ELSA HOLGUIN, CHAIR
THOMAS BRYAN, TREASURER
GUILLERMO LAMBARRI, SECRETARY
JUDI DIAZ BONACQUISTI, EDD ANDRES CASAS
ERIC ISHIWATA
LISA LUCERO
MICHELLE LUCERO
DOMINICK MORENO
SUSANA SALAMUN
YESENIA SILVA-ESTRADA
ELAINE TORRES
HOLLIE VELASQUEZ HORVATH
LISTS INCLUDE STAFF, BOARD, & ADVISORS FROM JANUARY 1DECEMBER 31, 2024
CARLOS MARTINEZ , President & CEO
STEPHANIE MONGE, Program Manager
KOURTNEY RIMBERT, Director of Finance and Human Resources
TASHINA SALAS, Development & Communications Coordinator
ROSALIND SANTOS HALL, Director of Director of Leadership & Nonprofit Investment*
KAITLYN THROGMORTON, Program Manager
SONYA ULIBARRI, Chief Impact Office
*RECENTLY ADDED TEAM MEMBERS
ADVISORS
ADELANTE COLORADO
DALIA DORTA DE GONZALEZ MONICA ROERS
DEBBIE HERRERA GARLAND YATES
CEC ORTIZ
COLORADO COMMUNITIES OF COLOR LOAN FUND
JENNIFER LOPEZ EMMA SCHWARZ
ALEJANDRO MONAREZ LADAWN SULLIVAN
INVESTMENT/FINANCE COMMITTEE
ANDRES CASAS EMMA SCHWARZ
STRATEGIC PLANNING
JOSE CALDERON ANITA PADILLA
ERIK J. ESTRADA, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M CHRISTINE SWITZER
CONSULTANT TEAM
MIDY APONTE, CIVIL STRATEGIES
DALIA DORTA DE GONZALES, NEOCOM PROMO
RICK GARCIA
JOHANNA LEYBA, LGA EVALUATION TEAM
SARAH OLIVIER, LGA EVALUATION TEAM
GAYLE WARNER, LGA EVALUATION TEAM
CEC ORTIZ, CONFLUENCE DENVER
GARLAND YATES, MOBILIZING COMMUNITIES
2025 AND BEYOND: A BOLD NEW ERA
Together, we've built a powerful legacy—and now, we're ready to go further. With a bold new strategic vision, LCFC is stepping into the next chapter with deeper purpose, reimagined structures, and unwavering commitment to Latino families, community-led action, and cultural justice.
Join us as we lead Colorado into a transformative new era of Latino philanthropy.
Let’s Keep Growing Together. Scan here to contribute.
