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TWO DECADES OF DEDICATION

Celebrating Damian Woetzel’s leadership of the Vail Dance Festival >> page 2

NEW NAME, SAME AMAZING PROGRAMS

Youth Power debuts a fresh identity rooted in clarity, energy, and impact >> page 4

BUILDING MOMENTUM

Lettuce Patch Early Learning Center and Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater construction projects move forward

>> page 8

PLAN WITH PURPOSE

Smart strategies to maximize your charitable impact while minimizing taxes

>> page 11

Damian Woetzel and Michelle Dorrance at the 2017 Vail Dance Festival.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

20 YEARS OF ARTISTRY & INNOVATION

When the Vail Dance Festival returns July 31–August 10, 2026, it will mark an important milestone: 20 years under the artistic direction of Damian Woetzel. Since taking on the role in 2006, Woetzel has transformed the Festival into one of the world’s premier dance destinations, fostering the careers of countless dancers and choreographers while bringing worldclass performances to the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

“This season reflects what the Vail Dance Festival has become over these past twenty years: a place for artists to take next steps, that brings the energy of what dance is today, and the catalytic possibility of what it can be into the future.”—Damian Woetzel

A former Principal Dancer with New York City Ballet and current President of The Juilliard School, Woetzel brings an extraordinary depth of experience and vision to the Festival. His tenure has been defined by artistic innovation, bold creative programming, and a commitment to nurturing emerging talent while celebrating established stars. Under his leadership and that of his wife, the acclaimed Balanchine ballerina Heather Watts, the Festival has become internationally renowned for its ability to bring together artists from diverse backgrounds, creating innovative partnerships that push the boundaries of dance and music.

Calvin Royal III and Unity Phelan in Balanchine’s Apollo on Opening Night of the 2021 Vail Dance Festival. Choreography by George Balanchine. ©The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Christopher Duggan.

Carla Körbes and Eric Underwood performing George Balanchine's Agon Choreography by George Balanchine ©The George Balanchine Trust.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

One of Woetzel’s most significant contributions has been the establishment of the Artist-In-Residence program in 2010, launching and elevating the careers of artists across the dance world. The program fully embeds selected artists in every facet of the Festival, allowing them to collaborate across disciplines and create work in an environment unlike any other in the dance world.

Acclaimed choreographer Alexei

Ratmansky is the Vail Dance Festival’s 2026 Artist-In-Residence, marking his debut in Vail. Several of Ratmansky’s works have been performed in Vail over the years, including his Fandango, which was commissioned in 2010 for Festival star Wendy Whelan, then restaged in 2019 for Roman Mejia.

Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Ratmansky is of Ukrainian descent and trained at the Bolshoi Ballet School in Moscow prior to becoming a Principal Dancer with the Ukrainian National Ballet, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and the Royal Danish Ballet. From 2004 to 2008, he was the Artistic Director of the Bolshoi Ballet. He served as Artist-InResidence at American Ballet Theatre from 2008 to 2023, and in 2023 became Artist-In-Residence at New York City Ballet. He is also Associate Artist with Dutch National Ballet, and his work is performed by nearly all major international ballet companies.

As we celebrate this incredible 20-year milestone, the Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for artistic excellence and innovation. Woetzel and Watts' commitment to creating opportunities for both rising and established artists has made the Vail Dance Festival an essential institution in the dance world, one that honors the legacy of cultural exchange through dance that has been the heartbeat of the Festival since its inception in 1989.

Tickets for this year’s Festival are on sale now, and donors receive exclusive benefits according to giving level, including complimentary premium tickets, a parking pass, invitations to exclusive receptions, and more.

Interested in learning more about your benefits and how you can contribute to the Vail Dance Festival? Contact Senior Director of Philanthropy Martha Brassel at mbrassel@vvf.org.

HelpensurethefutureoftheVailDanceFestivalby supportingourArtisticDirectionEndowmentand The Carol F. Storr Endowment for Classical Ballet as partofourEmpoweringPossibilityCapitalCampaign. Visit empower.vvf.org to learn more and contribute.

Photo by Erin Baiano.

INTRODUCING:

Same mission, same incredible impact, fresh identity

We’re excited to introduce Youth Power: the new name and fresh identity for what was formerly YouthPower365. This is Youth Power’s first rebrand in a decade, reflecting years of growth and impact while positioning us for even greater reach in the years ahead.

Your philanthropic investment deserves a clear, compelling identity that amplifies your impact. The transformation to Youth Power provides exactly that: a cleaner, more intuitive name that removes barriers and creates instant understanding of our work. This straightforward name communicates our purpose with clarity and power, all while maintaining the same amazing programs that have served our community for years.

The transformation comes with a vibrant new logo with a dynamic purple, blue, and green ombré design and bold, powerful typography to convey forward movement and energy—qualities that capture the energy and potential of the youth and families we serve.

This contemporary visual identity ensures that when you share our story or see Youth Power in the community, it reflects the caliber of excellence your support makes possible

While the name and appearance have evolved, our purpose remains unchanged: fromearlychildhoodtocollegeandcareerreadiness,,Youth Power provides programs to inspire, educate, and empower youth and their families every step of the way. Every dollar invested will continue to bolster transformative programs that remain free or low-cost, ensuring accessibility for every young person in our community.

To learn more about how you can support Youth Power programs, contact Director of Philanthropy Kelly Ronquist at kronquist@vvf.org or Vice President of Philanthropy Peter Barclay at pbarclay@vvf.org.

Photos by Chris Kendig and Nisha Louise Photography.

EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE

The future looks bright for the first recipients of the Career Pathways Scholarship. Launched in 2025 through a collaboration between Youth Power, My Future Pathways, Colorado Mesa University Tech (CMU Tech), Colorado Mountain College Vail Valley, and the Eagle County School District, the scholarship is making higher education accessible for local high school seniors pursuing career and technical degrees. A select group of deserving young people received scholarships for one- and two-year programs in the program’s inaugural year, and many are already making their mark.

Isaac Miramontes is currently in his second semester at CMU Tech’s culinary program. The program has opened up a world of possibilities for Isaac, who has discovered a passion for cooking and a clear vision for his future: to open his own restaurant.

“My first step is to complete my studies, and the ability to study at this great school wouldn’t be possible without the Career Pathways Scholarship... I am able to study culinary arts and gain valuable knowledge and experience, so I won’t enter the restaurant business blindly.”—Isaac Miramontes, Career Pathways Scholarship recipient

Fernando Ruiz is also at CMU Tech, where he is pursuing a degree in Diesel Mechanics. In addition to developing time management and organizational skills, Fernando is building confidence and practical expertise that will be crucial as he works toward his career goals.

“The Career Pathways Scholarship has taken a lot of financial stress off my shoulders. It’s allowing me to focus on my education, personal growth, and building the skills I need for a stable and rewarding career in diesel mechanics.”—Fernando Ruiz, Career Pathways Scholarship recipient

As Isaac, Fernando, and their fellow scholarship recipients continue their studies, they represent the promise of Youth Power’s commitment to supporting local youth in pursuing meaningful careers. Through programs like the Career Pathways Scholarship, Youth Power is investing in the next generation of skilled professionals who will strengthen our community for years to come.

STAR DANCING GALA

We hope to see you at the annual Star Dancing Gala on July 14! Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, food, drinks, and dancing, all while helping support Youth Power’s mission.

For more information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit stardancinggala.com. Photos by

Chris Kendig.

OPENING DOORS TO THE ARTS

The Vilar Performing Arts Center’s Community Arts Access program continues to grow, reaching more neighbors than ever before. Through expanded offerings and new innovative approaches, the Vilar is removing barriers and ensuring that financial circumstances don’t stand between community members and the transformative power of live performance.

A newly introduced ticket lottery system gives locals the opportunity to apply for complimentary tickets to select shows throughout the season. Combined with the program’s existing partnerships with local organizations that distribute tickets to those who need them most, the Vilar is on track to provide approximately $85,000 worth of free or steeply discounted tickets in 2026.

This expansion represents tangible progress toward fulfilling the Vilar’s strategic plan, currently in place through 2027. One of the plan’s four pillars focuses on inspiring our community by increasing access to the arts, providing arts education, and creating opportunities through the arts.

The commitment to access extends to our youngest community members through the Support the Arts Reaching Students (STARS) program. In 2026, STARS will distribute approximately 11,000 complimentary tickets across 26 performances, a $250,000 investment that covers all costs—including transportation—to ensure that local youth can experience live performance.

Beyond the audience experience, the Vilar is creating pathways into arts careers through its summer internship program. This initiative exposes interested students to the behind-the-scenes work that brings world-class performances to our stage, building tomorrow’s arts workforce right here in our valley.

From students discovering their passion for the arts to families experiencing their first live performance together, the Community Arts Access program is fulfilling the Vilar’s vision of being a venue for everyone in our community.

If you are interested in supporting the Vilar’s Community Arts Access initiatives, contact Vice President of Philanthropy Peter Barclay at pbarclay@vvf.org.

Photos by Chris Kendig, John Ryan Lockman, and Rob Pretchl.

MAKING HISTORY... AGAIN

Men’s and women’s World Cup racing returns in 2026

Mark your calendars: both men and women will compete at the 2026 Stifel Birds of Prey Audi FIS Ski World Cup this December. The back-to-back race weekends will build on the tremendous success from 2024, when the world’s fastest women competed on the Birds of Prey downhill course for the first time in history.

GROWING GROMS

More opportunities for young athletes at the 2026 GoPro Mountain Games

*2026 STIFEL BIRDS OF PREY RACE SCHEDULE:

Weekend 1

(Men’s Racing):

Thursday, December 3:

Men’s Downhill

Friday, December 4:

Men’s Downhill

Saturday, December 5:

Men’s Super-G

Sunday, December 6:

Men’s Giant Slalom

Weekend 2

(Women’s Racing):

Saturday, December 12:

Women’s Downhill

Sunday, December 13:

Women’s Super-G

*TheWorldCupscheduleis preliminaryandpending finalFISCouncilapproval.

“Beaver Creek is hands down my favorite race, and I cannot wait to go back!”—Tricia Mangan, Stifel U.S. Women's Alpine Ski Team athlete

The women’s historic races in 2024—and their 2026 return— were made possible through a transformational $10 million gift from John and Karen Arnold as part of our Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign

Learn more about Stifel Birds of Prey at bcworldcup.com

the fastest-growing category at the Mountain Games, which is why we introduced several new opportunities for young athletes.

The Kids Mini Dash is a brand-new kids’ running race for ages 6-12, featuring both long (approximately 2K) and short (approximately 1K) course options.

Additional waves have been added to the Lucid Kids' Bike Race, including another wave for the 6-and-under crowd, allowing an additional 70 kids to participate.

There will be a new Beginner U14 category in the Lucid XC Mountain Bike, offering an entry-level option for riders 14 and under on a shorter course, while other Sport and Expert categories are available for experienced junior competitors.

The Kids' Weekend Bundle offers 10% savings when registering for both the Kids Mini Dash and the Lucid Kids Bike Race.

These additions reflect our commitment to evolving the Mountain Games while continuing to ensure the festival remains accessible and welcoming to everyone.

When the GoPro Mountain Games return to Vail June 4–7, 2026, participants will see significant expansions across youth programming. Grom participation continues to be

For more information and to register, visit mountaingames.com.

Photo by Jon Resnick.

IMPACT IN ACTION

Our Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign is reaching exciting milestones and creating a lasting impact across arts, athletics, education, and community support services in the Eagle River Valley. Thanks to generous donors like you, we have raised $43.8 million toward our $74 million goal, and tangible progress is visible everywhere.

A NEW HOME FOR OUR YOUNGEST LEARNERS

Construction of the Lettuce Patch Early Learning Center in Avon is progressing, with the facility on track to open this fall. What was bare land less than one year ago is quickly transforming into a beautiful, state-ofthe-art facility that will soon be in use by our valley’s youngest learners.

The Eagle River Valley is a childcare desert, with nearly half of all early childhood education and development needs going unmet. Thanks to a publicprivate partnership between the Town of Avon and Vail Valley Foundation — made possible by a creative land arrangement with Traer Creek, LLC dating back to the late 1990s — we are proud to lead the charge in addressing this critical need. We couldn’t do any of it without key support from our partners, local employers, generous granting organizations, and individual donors like you.

The name “Lettuce Patch” honors Avon’s rich agricultural heritage as a thriving lettuce farming community in the early 20th century. Just as lettuce farmers once cultivated the land and fed communities near and far, we will soon be cultivating young minds and helping families grow strong roots in our valley.

The VVF has secured $13 million for construction, with a goal to raise another $500,000 by the end of May. Fundraising efforts also continue for a $3 million Tuition Assistance and Staff Housing Assistance Fund, which will ensure attraction and retention of qualified employees while providing accessibility for families across varied income levels.

ELEVATING AN ICONIC VENUE

At the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, phase one of our comprehensive $19 million renovation is complete, and the transformation is already evident: new myrtle green seats line the pavilion, featuring upholstered cushions and cup holders. Concrete work has been completed, and new hand railings have been installed in select areas of the pavilion.

Phase two will begin in late fall 2026 and will conclude by the end of March 2027. Phase two will include all utilities, grading, and roadway work. Phase three will begin in early September 2027 and will conclude by the end of May 2028. Phase three will include all final expansion and vertical construction for the east concessions, box

North Concessions and Multi-Purpose Studio

office, south concessions, and north concessions, as well as improvements to lighting, acoustics, and office and green room spaces.

The renovations will allow this iconic venue to extend its operating season, increase diverse programming, attract the world’s most renowned artists, and generate millions of dollars in additional annual economic impact for the Town of Vail.

Together, we’re not just investing in buildings or programs—we’re building a more vibrant, accessible, and opportunity-rich community. Every gift, every commitment, and every act of generosity brings us closer to empowering possibility for the next generation.

Beyond these milestone projects, the Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign continues advancing other transformative initiatives. Read about all capital projects currently underway at empower.vvf.org.

To learn more about giving opportunities or to make a gift to the Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign, visit empower.vvf.org/donate or contact VVF President Mike Imhof at mimhof@vvf.org or Vice President of Philanthropy Peter Barclay at pbarclay@vvf.org

Seat Replacement

Concessions Addition

TUNING UP FOR SUMMER

The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and Vilar Performing Arts Center are gearing up for an exciting summer season.

Fan favorites Trey Anastasio (June 3), O.A.R. (June 19), Greensky Bluegrass (August 14 & 15), and Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (August 21) are returning to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater once again, proving that artists want to come back year after year. Alison Krauss & Union Station will also perform on August 16, following Krauss’ incredible solo performance alongside Robert Plant in 2024.

After postponing his entire 2025 tour for health reasons, Ray Lamontagne will grace the Amphitheater stage with a highly-anticipated performance on August 25, as will The Australian Pink Floyd Show on August 18.

At the Vilar, summer kicks off with The Wallflowers (June 27), Brothers Osborne (June 28), Matteo Boccelli (June 29), and

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder (July 1).

On July 5, MOMIX returns with Botanica before the Vilar welcomes Graham Nash (July 10) and Maren Morris (July 17) to its intimate stage.

Shows will continue to be announced as summer draws closer. Stay tuned at vilarpac.org and grfavail.com for updates.

Donors receive presale access and other exclusive benefits. To learn more, visit vilarpac.org/support/membership (Vilar) or vvf.org/giving-levels (Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater).

KRISTY & BILL WOOLFOLK NAMED 2026 VAIL VALLEY CITIZENS OF THE YEAR

For decades, Kristy and Bill Woolfolk have quietly transformed lives across the Eagle River Valley, supporting causes from education to mental health services and environmental sustainability. Now, our grateful community is proud to recognize them as the 2026 Vail Valley Citizens of the Year, honoring their extraordinary personal and

professional commitments to nonprofits across the community and their strategic leadership of the Frechette Family Foundation.

Through decades of dedicated volunteer service and philanthropy, the Woolfolks have transformed countless lives. Their approach to philanthropy is marked by deep personal involvement, collaborative problem-solving, and

“Kristy and Bill exemplify what it means to be true community partners. They ask questions, serve actively on boards, and volunteer for events. Their kindness, genuine humility, and consistency over decades have made an immeasurable impact in the Vail Valley.”

—Mike Imhof, President and CEO, Vail Valley Foundation

genuine care for the people involved.

The Woolfolks’ commitment to the community builds upon a foundation laid by Kristy’s parents, Pat and Pete Frechette, who were themselves named Vail Valley Citizens of the Year in 2015. This unique multigenerational recognition is a first in the award’s history and speaks to a family culture of giving back that has shaped the valley for decades.

Read Kristy and Bill’s full story at vvf.org/news.

Trey Anastasio

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder

Photo by Chris Kendig.

MAXIMIZE YOUR IMPACT, MINIMIZE YOUR TAXES

Where generosity meets strategy

Thoughtful planning can transform your charitable giving into a powerful winwin. The right gift strategy not only advances our mission—it can also provide you with valuable tax benefits, income opportunities, and the satisfaction of making a lasting difference. Whether you’re looking to support us today or leave a legacy for tomorrow, these giving options offer flexible ways to maximize your impact while meeting your financial goals.

Alwaysconsultwithataxprofessionaltoseewhatstrategyismosteffectiveforyou.

Put your philanthropy to work right away—fueling programs, strengthening families, and responding to urgent needs in our community

Make a gift of cash or assets such as stocks, bonds, crypto, and real estate, or make gifts from Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) and Foundations

• Income tax deduction

• Capital gains tax exclusion on donated appreciated assets

• Gifts from DAFs and Foundations can fulfill required annual distributions

• Gifts to Youth Power and Eagle River Valley Childcare may qualify for Colorado Child Care Contribution Tax Credit (CCTC)

THAT HELP LATER

Make a meaningful future impact while prioritizing loved ones today

Name a charity as a beneficiary of all or part of a will or trust

• Retain control and use of assets during donor’s lifetime

• Provide for family first, charity receives remainder

• Estate tax charitable deduction

• Can be modified during lifetime if needed

Transfer IRA funds directly to charity without paying income tax

• Tax -free direct transfers for donors age 70 1/2 or older

• Counts toward Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)

• Annual limit of $111,000 per person in 2026

Didyouknow?Colorado residentsmaybeeligiblefor the Child Care Contribution TaxCredit(CCTC),which providesa50%taxcredit onqualifyingcharitable contributions. This includes some NEW Donor Advised Funds established with theVVF.Forexample,a $1,000contributioncould generatea$500Colorado state tax credit in addition toyourfederalcharitable deduction.

Establish a charitable fund that lets you give now and recommend grants to charities over time

• Tax deduction in year of gift

• Contributions can grow tax-free through investment

• Flexibility to support multiple charities over time

• VVF handles all administrative and grant-making duties

• Capital gains tax exclusion on donated appreciated assets

Name a charity as a beneficiary of all or part of the plan

• Assets pass directly to charity tax-free

• Charity avoids income tax (which heirs would pay)

• Estate tax deduction for charitable portion

• Preserves other assets for family

Donate a new or existing life insurance policy by naming charity as owner and beneficiary of all or part of the policy

• Create a significant future gift at relatively low cost

• Income tax deduction for cash value of existing policy

• Tax deduction for premium payments on donated policies

• Estate tax savings GIFTS THAT PAY INCOME

Make a meaningful charitable contribution while receiving dependable payments for life or a set period of time

Make a gift and receive fixed annual payments for life

Guaranteed fixed income for life

• Partial income tax deduction in year of gift

• Portion of each payment is tax-free

• Capital gains tax exclusion on donated appreciated assets

Create a trust that pays the donor a fixed annual amount for life or up to 20 years, with remainder going to charity

• Fixed annual income

Immediate partial income tax deduction

• Trust sells appreciated assets with no capital gains tax

• Estate tax savings

• Flexibility to support one or multiple charities

Enclosed is your copy of IMPACT—the newsletter for supporters of the Vail Valley Foundation.

CONTACT US

Please reach out to a member of the VVF philanthropy team if you have questions or would like to learn more about the various ways you can support the VVF.