When Mark and Mary first visited the Yampa Valley in 2002 with their four-year-old twin boys for a ski weekend, they had no idea that Steamboat Springs would eventually become home. What began as a family getaway grew into a deep connection with the community, and in late 2020, they officially became full-time residents. Today, through their generosity, leadership, and commitment to giving, Mark and Mary are helping strengthen both the Yampa Valley and communities far beyond it. Mark and Mary’s backgrounds reflect a lifelong dedication to education, excellence, and innovation. Mark was born and raised in Los Angeles, earning three degrees from the University of Southern California and an MBA from Harvard before building a successful career at Intel, Sequoia Capital, and later founding SCubed Capital, the family’s investment office. Mary grew up in Portland, Oregon, graduated from Santa Clara University, and spent her career in commercial real estate brokerage in Silicon Valley.
Their philanthropic journey began in the early 2000s through support of their alma maters, their children’s schools, and their local church. Over time, that commitment evolved into a broader mission. Feeling deeply grateful for the opportunities they have received, the Stevens’ have sought meaningful ways to invest in the people and communities they care about. In 2013, they signed the Giving Pledge, reinforcing their commitment to using their resources to create significant and lasting positive impact.
For the Stevens family, philanthropy is personal and unique, with each family member drawn to different causes and issues. Mary is particularly passionate about affordable housing and the challenges facing working families in the Yampa Valley. Mark has focused much of his philanthropy on scientific advancement and healthcare research. Together, they support a diverse range of organizations that strengthen communities, improve lives, and expand opportunities. Their three children—Scott, Sean, and Samantha—are developing their own philanthropic pathways.
Over the past 25 years, the Stevens family has been involved with numerous educational, healthcare, and philanthropic organizations, including USC, Harvard Business School, Santa Clara University, Stanford University, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Foundation, Part the Cloud, and many others. In the Yampa Valley, they are committed supporters of organizations addressing affordable housing, food security, mental health, healthcare access, recreation, public safety, and education.
While their significant contributions have touched countless lives, Mark and Mary measure success in simple, personal moments. They are most proud when they receive a handwritten note, a phone message, or even a text from someone whose life has been positively affected by their support. Those human connections serve as powerful reminders that philanthropy is ultimately about people and the difference that generosity can make in the lives of others.
Their philosophy around giving is both practical and inspiring. “No one is born a philanthropist,” they believe. “It is a learned skill and activity.” They encourage others to begin with causes they know and care about, emphasizing that philanthropy is much like investing. Instead of seeking financial returns, donors invest their time, talent, and resources to create meaningful outcomes for individuals and communities.
Through their partnership with the Yampa Valley Community Foundation, Mark and Mary have found a trusted resource to help guide their philanthropy and maximize its impact. They describe YVCF as a valued partner that has provided wise counsel and thoughtful stewardship of their donor-advised fund, helping them achieve their charitable goals and contribute to the region’s spirit of generosity.