RAM Legacy In Action

Breckenridge Grand Vacations (BGV) has honored late owner/developer, Rob Millisor, through BGV Gives’ annual Heart Health Walk for almost a decade. In that time, we provided more than $1.3M for heart health initiatives and programs at the heart of the Summit County community. From saving lives through newly installed AEDs to promoting nutrition and physical activity in low-income youth, the impact is tremendous, and we know Rob would be proud. 

This year we are changing our approach to celebrating Rob’s memory with a new volunteer-based event, Rob A. Millisor (RAM) Legacy in Action. The event will engage BGV employees, family members, and sponsors to highlight our commitment to giving back in much the same way Rob did. The change is rooted in a desire to keep Rob’s legacy vibrant and meaningful in our community. 

Taking place on June 6, 2024, RAM Legacy in Action will partner with local nonprofits to raise funds for programs at the heart of our community and contribute more than 750 hours of volunteer time in one day. Volunteer activities include horse care, access to healthy food, trail work and more. 

Although RAM Legacy in Action is focused on bringing BGV employees to the community, we hope you will continue to support Rob’s legacy of giving back.   

  • If you’d like to continue to impact heart health and community initiatives in Summit County, please help us reach our fundraising goal of $150,000 by donating to the Rob A. Millisor Heart Health Fund at The Summit Foundation.  
  • If you’d like to participate directly with this year’s volunteer projects, please consider providing an individual or business sponsorship. 

We’re so grateful for everyone who participated as a vendor, volunteer, walker, or runner at the Rob A. Millisor Heart Health Walk over the past eight years. The event would not have been successful without all involved! 

Whether in Breckenridge or your own community, we encourage you to “be like Rob” and give back in a way that is meaningful to you.

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The Heart Health Fund in Action – New Models of AEDs Installed a Local Childcare Centers and BGV Resorts

Thanks to BGV Gives and the Rob Millisor Heart Health Fund at The Summit Foundation, 11 new AEDs have been installed at 6 local childcare centers and BGV resorts. The BGV Compliance Team replaced 5 old AEDs and installed an additional AED at Grand Timber Lodge. 

These updated AED models have several exciting new features:  

  • They incorporate a digital screen displaying instructional videos alongside voice prompts, enhancing usability.  
  • Their pads are universally applicable for both adult and pediatric patients, eliminating the need to change the pads per type of patient.  
  • The positioning of the pads on the patient is slightly different due to using the same pads for both adults and pediatric patients.  
  • Language settings can be modified to accommodate different users, making the AED at Grand Timber Lodge the first Spanish-speaking AED installed by BGV!  

We’ve already exceeded our company-wide objective of having 20% of employees trained in CPR at every resort, which is fantastic! 

Read the Summit Daily article here: Summit County real estate developers donate funds for AEDS at 6 local childcare centers. 

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Breckenridge Grand Vacations steps up annual giving with $1.6M last year – bringing total BGV Gives support to over $15 million.

In 2023, BGV Gives impacted 192 non-profits supporting health, human services, education, arts, environment, and sports and recreation in Summit and Park Counties. Additionally, BGV’s Volunteer Time Off (VTO) program paid employees for 6,565 hours working at non-profits.

BGV’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year, Jacob Budnick, said, “for me, BGV’s VTO program is an opportunity to do our part in maintaining and continuously improving this incredible place that we’re so lucky to call home.”

Particularly impactful was BGV Gives’ support of the Summit Community Care Clinic’s hypertension program. The Care Clinic distributes home blood pressure monitors and provides enhanced patient support to decrease cardiovascular risks and mortality for local residents.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kathleen Cowie says about the program, “Much of blood pressure management depends on patients understanding their condition and working with a trusted provider. Hypertension is known as the ‘silent killer,’ as most people feel fine with elevated blood pressure. We found that positive results increased significantly through this program.”

In Park County, BGV Gives provided both funding and volunteer assistance to create an educational, high-alpine community garden at the Sacramento Creek Ranch near Alma through a partnership with Mountain Area Land Trust (MALT).

According to Lynn Caligiuri, Executive Director of MALT, “The Trust is fortunate and grateful to have found such a turnkey partnership with BGV Gives. Upon completion in summer of 2024, the community garden will host a population of 15-20 native plants, along with educational interpretive signage to support students, educators, and community members seeking to learn about biodiversity, botany, and high alpine plant environments. Without BGV Gives, this educational hub would not be a reality!”

Tara Dew, BGV Gives Program Manager, said “Philanthropy is a top priority for Breckenridge Grand Vacations. From the company’s executive leadership to our newest hires, BGV employees give back to those around them.”

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Celebrating an Exciting Year of Recognition

BGV was recognized at local and national levels this year and we could not be more grateful to our employees for embracing the culture of giving back.   

Outstanding Business Philanthropy Award from The Summit Foundation

Each year, The Summit Foundation recognizes outstanding community members through its Annual Philanthropy Awards. These awards celebrate and recognize outstanding individuals, businesses, and nonprofits who embrace a culture of giving back and devote their time, talents, and resources to elevate our Summit County community.  

BGV was awarded the 2023 Outstanding Business Philanthropy Award.  This achievement is a true testament to all the work BGV has done for our community for decades and highlights our late owner, Rob Millisor’s philanthropic, community-first legacy. Recent initiatives to strengthen BGV’s company commitment resulted in the establishment of the Community Impact department, a team who is fully devoted to “Doing Well by Doing Good” and creating an impact on local environmental, social, and philanthropic causes.  

This culture of compassion is a direct result of BGV employees championing community service and engagement. From building trails with Friend of the Dillon Ranger District, packaging and/or delivering Smart Bellies meals to local families, donating blood, participating in the annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk, and so much more! This strong commitment to our community is the reason why BGV will continue to positively impact the community for years to come. Congratulations to the entire team at BGV who made this GRAND moment possible! 

Friends of the Dillion Ranger District Partner of the Year

BGV proudly accepted the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) Partner of the Year for 2023. This esteemed recognition acknowledges the outstanding collaboration between BGV Gives and FDRD, particularly in their joint efforts each summer to enhance trail systems through multiple forest stewardship projects.  

BGV’s commitment to community engagement shines brightly through initiatives like this, fostering a culture of volunteerism and environmental stewardship among our employees. As a company, BGV provides “Volunteer Time Off,” through which it pays each full-time and part-time employee to contribute at least 24 hours each year to meaningful local causes, with the forest stewardship projects organized by FDRD being a favorite. 

Each year, several departments and individuals within BGV sign up for trail work, taking a break from the resort or office to dedicate a day to trail maintenance. These projects not only contribute to the well-being of the local trail systems but also enhance the outdoor activities that many employees enjoy, including trail running, hiking, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, and walking their dogs. In 2023 alone, over 50 BGV employees worked at one of 4 trail days with FDRD, contributing over 200 hours to the maintenance and preservation of trails at Spruce Creek, just south of Breckenridge.  

This award stands as a testament to BGV’s unwavering commitment to community partnership, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of its employees. 

Snowmelt Efficiency Project at GL7 Recognized by the EPA

In September, BGV was awarded the Region 8 Pollution Prevention Award by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its snowmelt efficiency project at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7. This recognition honors companies who have made significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. BGV is the only hospitality group to achieve this federal and nationally recognized award in 2023!  

Since this project was implemented in November of 2022: 

  • The Grand Lodge on Peak 7 has saved 500-1,000 metric million BTUs of natural gas per month or 2.6-5.3 metric tons of CO2 per month. 
  • This is the same as planting 3.2 acres of forests in one year. 
  • Natural gas usage dropped by 14%. 
  • These savings were seen during a winter with record low temperatures. 

Jeff Edwards (Energy Programs Coordinator) and Ellen Reid (Director of Community Impact) were interviewed by 9News to talk more about BGV, the company’s mission, and the great work happening at the Grand Lodge on Peak In addition, members from the EPA came to tour the project and property in early November to present the award to the team.  

BGV would not have received this prestigious award without all the hard work from the Sustainability team, the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 Engineering team and other property leaders. Thank you all and a big congratulations to everyone that made this amazing achievement possible! 

Check out the EPA’s Facebook and Twitter posts about the announcement. 

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BGV’s Adopt a Family Program Marks 10 Years of Spreading Holiday Cheer

Last month, BGV Gives celebrated the 10th anniversary of the BGV Adopt a Family program. BGV partnered with Summit County’s Youth and Family Services to provide gifts to families in need of extra support during the holiday season. Across the company, BGV employees stepped up to bring smiles to 107 individuals from 28 families this holiday season.  

Staff members from the Community Impact department packed up their office brimming with over 50 boxes and bags of gifts and brought them in several carloads to Summit County’s Youth and Family Services, where their staff shared their immense gratitude on behalf of the families they serve.  

Echoing the results of the University of Chicago’s study that shows that found that giving (rather than receiving) leads to long-lasting happiness, team member Carrie Scheick expressed her deep appreciation for the program. “This yearly initiative is one of my favorites. The generosity of BGV employees shines brightly within this program – everyone cares about bringing joy to local families during the holiday season and it just warms my heart! I always love being part of the team that delivers the gifts, as we transform our own office from being inundated with bags of presents to overwhelming (in a good way!) the YFS office.    

BGV Gives extends its thanks to the employees of BGV, who participated in this remarkable act of generosity and of Summit Youth and Family Services, who identified families and coordinated delivery.

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BGV Gives Sponsors a One-of-a-Kind Doghouse in Dillon

This year, the Playhouse Project, a public art exhibit, took its creativity up a notch by crafting unique and specialized dog houses. These K9 Cabins were auctioned off with proceeds benefiting Summit Lost Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their owners. BGV Gives has been a long-time supporter of this nonprofit through our grant program.

BGV Gives sponsored and MW Golden Constructors built the Malmo doghouse, pictured below with one of BGV’s office dogs, Theo, a 2.5 shar-pei cattle dog mix. “BGV’s administration offices are pet-friendly environments filled with a variety of dogs ranging in size, age, breed, and personality, catering to the numerous employees who are also proud pet owners,” said Carrie Scheick, Community Impact Coordinator.

“Summit Lost Pet Rescue is incredibly successful. They have unmatched find rates when it comes to reunited pets and their owners. They are dedicated to providing education to Summit County’s pet owners to ensure a safe and positive experience for all the four-legged family members in our community.”

The doghouses are on display through Sunday, August 27th. Bid on your favorite and learn more about each playhouse at www.playhouseproject.org.

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From Pizza Hut to Pantry Hub: Revamped Space Now Central to Food Pantry Operations

The transformation of a former Pizza Hut into a food rescue packaging and storage facility will make a significant impact on the food insecurity in Summit County. CAFE Food Rescue, a grantee of BGV Gives, is breathing new life into the space and repurposing it to serve a vital purpose. This building is being provided by the Town of Silverthorne to support food access programs in Summit County.

CAFE Food Rescue is a Summit nonprofit that increases access to fresh nutritious food for food insecure residents while decreasing greenhouse gas emissions caused by food production and food waste. Diane Calvin, CAFE Food Rescue’s Executive Director, shares that the organization “partners with food donors such as event centers, caterers, restaurants, and grocery stores to collect unused, nutritious food and distribute that food to members of our community facing difficult decisions on how to pay for rent, health care, food, and other necessities. Food is collected and packaged with the help of volunteers and is distributed through community dinners, food pantries, and social service organizations.”

CAFE Food Rescue provides food to 4 community dinners, 5 food pantries and 2 home delivery organizations that collectively serve more than 2000 people every week, making a tangible impact on alleviating food insecurity in the area. Partners include Rotary Dinner at the Elks Club, Father Dyer Church Community Dinner and Food Pantry, St. John’s Church Community Dinner, Lord of the Mountain Day Services, FIRC Food Markets in Dillon and Breckenridge, CAFÉ Food Rescue Pantry at the Summit Community Care Clinic, Dillon Community Church Food Pantry, Smart Bellies and Meals on Wheels.

The necessity of food assistance programs has become increasingly evident due to the challenges posed by the high cost of living in the mountains. With rent soaring, many families find it difficult to make ends meet.

According to the Colorado Center for Law and Policy, a staggering 19% of families in the community are struggling to meet their basic needs. This striking statistic underscores the urgent need for initiatives like CAFE Food Rescue in Summit County. The provision of food assistance not only fills plates but also makes it possible for individuals and families to focus on other critical needs without the constant worry of where their next meal will come from.

This transformation exemplifies the power of collective action in creating lasting positive change for those in need. BGV Gives is immensely proud to stand behind and support such an important and impactful cause within our community.

 

 

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BGV Gives Prepares for the 8th Annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk

Back for the 8th year, the Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk is quickly approaching on June 10th! Help us kick off the summer with this fun and family friendly event at Carter Park.

The 8th Annual Rob Millisor Heart Health Walk promises a lineup of activities that will put a smile on your face! Lace up your shoes and choose your path: a 5k trail run, a 5k trail walk, or a leisurely 1-mile town walk. Every participant and volunteer will be treated to morning snacks, a heart-healthy lunch, an event t-shirt, and a commemorative gift. But wait, there’s more! There will be live entertainment and prize giveaways, including a chance to win a 7-night vacation with Interval International.

Since 2016, the Heart Health Walk has been an incredible force for good in the Summit County Community, raising an astounding $1,185,000 to date! From after-school programs to CPR/AED training, and backcountry rescue, this event supports initiatives that truly change lives. Because Breckenridge Grand Vacations covers all costs associated with the event, 100% of your ticket or donation will go straight to local Summit County nonprofits.

Three Ways You Can Help:

  1. Register or donate today.
  2. Sign up to volunteer.
  3. Spread the word! Share the Heart Health Walk Facebook event with your audiences.

Enter Code BGVGIVES for $5 off your ticket registration

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BGV’s Earth Week Events Inspires Sustainability and Environmental Awareness

At BGV, we believe that sustainability goes beyond being a mere buzzword; it’s a lifestyle. This is why we were thrilled to host Earth Week for our entire staff this year! From April 21st-28th, employees had the opportunity to attend a series of events focused on sustainability and environmental awareness.

We kicked off the week by teaming up with the High Country Conservation Center for a “Bust the Recycling Myths” event, which helped to dispel common misconceptions about recycling and provided guidance on how to recycle more effectively. This was a fun and interactive event that bounced from property to property and helped increase employees’ awareness about the importance of proper waste diversion. This event put an emphasis on spelling out what happens to recyclables in Summit County once we put them in the blue bin.

One of the highlights of Earth Week was a facilities tour and presentation by Breck Create. This year, we partnered with Precious Plastic, a world-renowned organization that specializes in turning hard to recycle plastic waste into new products. Their demonstration showcased the innovative ways that plastic waste can be upcycled and inspired us all to think more creatively about reducing our plastic usage. BGV employees were lucky enough to see the whole process, from hard to recycle plastic like sleds and patio chairs transformed into carabiners, coasters, earrings, and even a skateboard.

Finally, we hosted a presentation on home energy audits, which provided practical tips for reducing energy use and saving money on utility bills. This was geared towards both homeowners and renters, and it provided a number of resources including rebate opportunities for energy savings upgrades. This presentation was a great reminder of the many ways that we can all make a positive impact on the environment in our daily lives, even through simple and easy changes.

We were thrilled to see such enthusiastic participation from our employees during Earth Week, and we hope that these events will inspire all of us to continue to prioritize sustainability in our personal and professional lives. Together, we can make a difference for our planet and ensure Breckenridge remains unchanged for future generations.

Learn More

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FIRC Launches Night Out Event With Brad Montgomery on June 9th

Join the Family & Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC) for their largest fundraiser of the year! Debuting this year, the FIRC Night Out will take place on June 9th at the Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge.

This year’s event will feature Brad Montgomery, who specializes in using humor, interactivity, sound, music and visuals to ignite audiences so that they can use happiness as a tool to improve their lives and their jobs.

Family and Interculture Resource Center Development Director Sarah Grant shares, “FIRC Night Out is a chance to connect with community, to laugh, and to give back in a meaningful way. FIRC served nearly 10,000 local workers and families in 2022 through FIRC’s four main program areas: Community Food Markets, Financial Empowerment, Community Health, and Behavioral Health and Wellness. Every donation and dollar raised helps FIRC to continue to meet the increased demand for services in Summit County.”

As a Gold Level sponsor for the event, BGV Gives will host the FIRC Night Out Cocktail Hour from 5:30 – 6:30m. Purchase a ticket today! Your support will help FIRC raise critical funding to support local workers and families in accessing resources needed to thrive in our community.

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