Nonprofit organizations are often the backbone of a strong community, filling gaps and providing services that touch lives in ways both big and small. In Summit County, nonprofits address needs ranging from animal rescue to mental health support, while also creating opportunities for education and inclusion. The Best of Summit highlights nonprofits whose missions reflect the heart of the high country and the values of the people who call it home.
Summit Lost Pet Rescue operates with a clear mission: reuniting lost pets with their families. As a 100 percent volunteer-based nonprofit, it mobilizes quickly when animals go missing, using a combination of community networks, search tactics and technology to aid recovery. The organization also emphasizes education, helping pet owners take preventive measures to keep animals safe. By focusing on compassion and collaboration, Summit Lost Pet Rescue has become an invaluable resource for pet owners in the county.
The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center has been creating transformative experiences through outdoor adventure since the 1970s. Its programs are designed for people of all abilities, including those with disabilities or special needs, making the outdoors accessible to everyone. Activities such as skiing, rafting and ropes courses are tailored to build confidence and foster independence. The BOEC’s commitment to inclusion and empowerment has made it a pioneer in adaptive recreation, showing how nature can inspire growth and connection.
Building Hope Summit County focuses on improving mental health through outreach, education and accessible services. The nonprofit connects residents with counseling resources, offers scholarships for therapy and organizes community events that reduce stigma around mental health. Its work is grounded in the belief that wellness is a community-wide responsibility, not an individual one. By weaving together support systems and encouraging open conversations, Building Hope provides both immediate help and long-term resilience for Summit County residents.
Thanks, ChatGPT.