good for the soul
In 2006 group of Aspen High School students became inspired to get involved and make an impact in Africa, founding the nonprofit Action in Africa. The organization works to promote community development and education in Uganda through the community center they built to serve the people of Nakuwadde. “The Center” offers educational and after school programs for children and adults and creates a safe space and supportive space for them to “Be, Belong, and Become.” Over the years, Action in Africa has become a beloved part of the EKS EVENTS family and we are proud to support their efforts by organizing their annual winter fundraiser in Aspen, Colorado.
Eight years ago The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center treated Elizabeth’s father’s cancer and added years to his life. The organization quickly became part of the EKS EVENTS philanthropic clientele and we now work with the local families to coordinate an annual fundraiser in Aspen. We have helped raise thousands of dollars and look forward to many more years supporting this amazing cancer center.
Anderson Ranch Art Center provides a creative haven for artists from all around the world. The campus is a hub of creativity and ingenuity with artists of all levels learning new skills, finding inspiration for new works and networking with fellow sculptors, illustrators and painters. As a member of the creative industry, EKS EVENTS has a special connection with the center and truly enjoys taking part in their annual events honoring imagination and service to the arts.
A beloved local charity, Aspen Education Fund (AEF) has been supporting the Aspen public schools for over twenty years. Elizabeth’s children have grown up in this system and it is a program near and dear to her as well as the entire EKS EVENTS team. Each year, we volunteer our time and services to the AEF events, coordinating vendors, entertainment, venues and all the little details that combine to create successful fundraisers.
Walk into the EKS EVENTS office on any given day and you will find at least one four-legged friend sleeping under one of the desks – sometimes dogs even outnumber humans! Our pets are part of our families and by extension, so is the Aspen Animal Shelter. We love working with the shelter to coordinate annual galas and community carnivals to raise funds and help animals find their forever homes.
Throughout the winter, the Aspen Valley Ski Club (AVSC) works tirelessly to engage local kids in winter sports and help them further develop their skills. In order to help fund their programs, the EKS EVENTS team volunteers every year to coordinate the Ajax Cup where teams compete in head-to-head slalom races. Funds from the race make it possible for over 2,300 kids to participate in their programs and take advantage of everything the mountains have to offer.
At EKS EVENTS, we believe every young adult should have the opportunity to pursue higher education if they so choose. Every fall, we coordinate with Colorado Western Slope College Fair to help give students the chance to visit with over 250 national and international admissions officers. They gain insight into the college selection process and access to workshops that will help them plan, budget and apply to the schools of their dreams.