The philanthropic efforts of Sturges Cusenbary Wealth Management have had tremendous impact in the Yampa Valley community, which is why they are this year’s Business Philanthropist of the Year.
Laura Cusenbary and Dan Sturges, a sister-brother team, have demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting various organizations and causes, and this commitment goes beyond just financial contributions.
Laura and Dan actively participate in board and volunteer service, making themselves available to support events, committees, and initiatives. Their personal experiences, such as Laura’s husband’s battle with brain cancer and Dan’s cardiac event, have deepened their appreciation for the support they received from the community during their challenging times. This support has inspired them to pay it forward and be a driving force in supporting others.
Laura has been in the valley for 20 years. She began volunteering working at aid stations and on YVCF’s IMPACT100 committee. Since then, she has become a community leader, serving on the boards of Strings Music Festival, Steamboat Pro Rodeo, and Ski Town USA Rotary Club, and volunteering on several committees and as a youth soccer coach.
Coming to the valley 9 years ago, Dan, like most, had a vision of Steamboat as an idyllic resort town. His subsequent experiences with nonprofits have educated him that this community faces the same challenges as every other community, and there are some fabulous organizations that are working hard to address those challenges. He has dedicated time as a Board Member for Northwest Colorado Health for 6 years, and currently for High Altitude Basketball.
As Dan and Laura’s career and philanthropic paths have evolved, they are grateful to have the opportunity to support organizations and donate to causes that they really believe in. As Laura says, “We need these organizations and the work that they do.”
Laura and Dan are proud that people feel comfortable enough to come to them and ask for support, and happy that most of the time they can say yes. “We are glad to be known as a partner for nonprofit organizations and it is rewarding for us to be able to support their work,” shares Dan.
One of the nominations submitted for Sturges Cusenbary Wealth Management sums it up perfectly: “Our community, our youth and our citizens are better because of Sturges Cusenbary Wealth Management’s contributions, leadership and the example they set. Laura and Dan lead from a financial aspect with consistent financial support for nonprofits and causes they believe in. They lead with their time as volunteers and they make our community a stronger, more connected, friendlier place to live.”