Honoring the Organizations That Helped Build Colorado’s Nonprofit Community

In 1987, the Colorado Nonprofit Association welcomed its first members—86 nonprofit organizations that believed Colorado nonprofits are stronger when we work together.

Forty years later, 28 of those pioneering organizations remain members of CNA.

Their longevity is more than a milestone. It is a testament to decades of leadership, service, resilience, and commitment to Colorado communities. Through economic downturns, changing community needs, technological transformation, and countless challenges, these organizations have remained steadfast in their missions while helping shape a stronger nonprofit sector for all.

As part of our 40th Anniversary celebration, we are proud to recognize and celebrate these Founding Members. Throughout the year, we will share their stories, highlight their contributions, and honor the impact they have made across Colorado.

Together, these organizations represent hundreds of years of collective service, innovation, and community leadership. Their stories remind us that lasting impact is built over time—and that when nonprofits come together, they create a stronger future for everyone.

We invite you to explore the organizations below and join us in celebrating the leaders who helped build the Colorado Nonprofit Association and continue to strengthen Colorado today.

40 Years. 28 Founding Members. Countless Lives Impacted.

Every three weeks, we’ll spotlight two of our Founding Members, sharing their history, impact, and contributions to Colorado’s nonprofit sector. Together, these stories tell the larger story of nonprofit leadership, resilience, and community impact across our state.

Alliance

Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver

Cat Care Society

Center for Work Education and Employment

Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation

Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus

Colorado Gives Foundation

Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation

Communicty Resource Center

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

Denver Young Artists Orchestra

Easterseals Colorado

Ember Center

Goodwill of Colorado

House of Neighborly Service

Humane Colorado

Jewish Family Service of Colorado

Junior League of Denver

Kids First Health Care

Mi Casa Resource Center

Mile High United Way

Project PAVE

Raise the Future

Rocky Mountain MS Center

SafeHouse Denver

The Learning Source

Three Birds Alliance

Volunteers of America Colorado