When Keith and Sandy learned they had been named the Yampa Valley Community Foundation’s 2025 Philanthropists of the Year, their reaction was one of humble surprise.
“We were truly shocked,” Sandy shared. “There are so many people in this valley doing incredible work. We just feel honored to be a part of it.”
But those who know Keith and Sandy aren’t surprised at all. Their decades of dedicated service, behind-the-scenes leadership, and quiet generosity have left an indelible mark on the Yampa Valley and beyond.
After living in Breckenridge, the couple set out across the West in search of a community where they could put down roots. They were looking for something special, a town with strong year-round connections, access to quality healthcare, and regular flights to St. Louis, where they were born and raised and maintained a second home. They found all that and so much more in Steamboat Springs, where they’ve now lived for 25 years.
To Sandy, philanthropy is about more than just writing checks. “It’s giving of yourself to help others, whether that’s volunteering your time or offering support.”
Keith agrees. “There are so many nonprofits here, and each one is doing meaningful work. That means there are endless opportunities for people to get involved. The need for good board members and volunteers is constant.”
Together, they’ve lived this ethos deeply. Keith will complete his eighth and final year on the board of the Routt County Humane Society, where he served as both treasurer and president during a time of financial and managerial challenges. His financial expertise helped restructure the organization, introducing financial controls, obtaining cost efficiencies and reorganizing and upgrading management. Keith also helped shepherd the organization through the Covid period. Keith also volunteers with Chesapeake Bay Retriever Relief and Rescue serving as an evaluator for both surrenders and adoptions. This role covers a wide territory and often requires him to travel.
Sandy’s impact has been equally transformational. After volunteering with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) in St. Louis, she brought her passion for protecting vulnerable children to the Yampa Valley. When Colorado CASA required all Judicial Districts to form their own 501(c)3 nonprofits, Sandy stepped up, founding and helping to grow a local chapter. She was instrumental in launching CASA’s signature fundraiser, Dancing with the Stars.
Sandy also volunteers with Yampatika by supporting bird counts, staffing the farmers market booth, and assisting in nature hikes. She serves on the board of Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition and is an active member of the YVCF Community Grants Committee. During the pandemic, she even answered calls on the Advocates of Routt County crisis line.
Keith and Sandy have been dedicated members of the YVCF Passport Club for 18 years, where they’ve built many lasting friendships. Keith considers YVCF a vital community asset in many ways, including having consulted with YVCF in his work with the Routt County Humane Society.
Keith may be stepping down from the Humane Society board, but he’s already looking for his next project. Sandy, too, remains eager to stay involved, particularly in advocacy for children and families in crisis.
As for what they’re most proud of? Sandy doesn’t hesitate: “Starting CASA here in the Yampa Valley.” For Keith, it’s the turnaround he led at the Humane Society.
Their story is one of steady, hands-on service and generosity. They didn’t set out to be recognized; they just showed up, year after year, wherever they were needed.
In honoring Keith and Sandy, the Yampa Valley Community Foundation also honors the kind of philanthropy that builds a stronger, more compassionate community: humble, committed, and deeply rooted in care.