Ben Vagher’s Steady Contributions Help Make Broomfield Great

Ben Vagher sits at the head of the table with various Senior Resources of Broomfield (SRB) Board Members at the group’s annual holiday breakfast.

Courtesy photo

By Bette Erickson

When we think about what makes a community great, many of us think of people. One of the behind-the-scenes leaders that has made Broomfield all that we love, is longtime resident Ben Vagher.

“Ben is just such a straight-up guy,” said Emily de la Crouse, lifelong Broomfield resident and law school student. “It would be difficult to pinpoint just one thing that I admire about him.”

Having moved straight to Broomfield right out of college with his wife, Katherine, Mr. Vagher says our community is a great place to raise a family. “For that reason and more, we feel a responsibility to give back to our community with our personal resources,” he said.

In 2016 the couple was given the Broomfield Community Foundation’s Heart of Broomfield Philanthropic award.

“When you live here this long you make a lot of friends,” he explained. He and Katherine moved here in 1975 and more or less immediately gave themselves wholly to making Broomfield what it is today, in addition to raising their two daughters here.

The Vaghers will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary this summer with a trip to Poland.

Even during his busy career as co-owner, with his wife, of a road construction company, Mr. Vagher volunteered for 22 years as Assistant Varsity Coach of Broomfield High School’s girls basketball team.

“We had a good run, taking home five consecutive state championships,” he said.

Now retired, when asked what his hobbies are Mr. Vagher replies, in addition to being a big sports fan and a Broncos season ticket holder, he enjoys serving various non-profits. Through the years, those non-profit organizations and roles have included the Board of Directors of the Broomfield Community Foundation, currently serving as the Chair of the Broomfield Republican Party, the Broomfield Evening Rotary President, the President of SRB – Senior Resources of Broomfield, and past Board Member of the Bal Swan Children’s Center.

“I try to be a contributor on Boards that I serve on, and not just warm the seat,” he said. “I appreciate being involved on these numerous Boards and I want to give back, for sure.”

Teryl Fabry, SRB’s Executive Director, agrees. “I think Ben does an amazing job as SRB president. He knows the issues that affect our older adults and he’s good at advocating for what they need.” She goes on to say, “Ben is compassionate toward their struggles and with his connections in the community, that makes him an ideal SRB President.”

When asked what motivates him and keeps him vital (he recently turned 71-years-old) and engaged in the community, Mr. Vagher explained as an aging adult himself, he’s always been impressed with those who remain active in a variety of ways.

“Mentally and physically, it’s important to not isolate yourself – to always be a part of something,” he advised. “Try to make a difference in your community. Contribute.”

Bette Erickson writes about people, places and events. Contact her at bette_erickson@hotmail.com.