More than 70 individuals and businesses have contributed to the SLV 4-H Endowment, with the latest donations coming through the 2026 Southern Rocky Mountain Ag Conference.
Larry Brown, SLV area director for the CSU Extension program, said the endowment has reached $1.55 million with the latest contributions. Brown set a goal of $2.5 million to permanently pay for a second 4-H youth development specialist to work in the Valley.
“The generosity of the San Luis Valley’s farmers, ranchers, agri-business community, and all community members in general, continues to amaze me and I am beyond grateful,” he said.
The most recent donors are Jim and Cynthia Clare, Thad and Deanne Elliot, Paul and Lynda Foster, Ken and Barbra Sears, Karla Shriver, SLV Fair Board in honor of Cory Myers, Wenta Nip & Sanitizing LLC, Alamosa State Bank, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee (CPAC), Del Norte Bank, and ProValue Insurance on behalf of the Monte Vista Co-op.
“I realize this is only one of many just causes in our community a person might choose to support, so when a person or business finds themselves in a position to give, and when they choose our cause, it is humbling,” Brown said.
Everything SLV Extension does is designed to foster healthy youth and families, profitable farms, ranches, and businesses, and strong, resilient, proud communities, Brown said.
“We provide a myriad of learning opportunities to SLV citizens of all ages, from all walks of life, where they live, work and play. The purpose of this endowment, and our just cause, is to permanently fund a second 4-H youth development specialist who will be able to help serve the youth in all six SLV counties consistently through the years, knowing the position will always be funded and immune to fluctuating budgets at CSU and the counties.”
To learn more about SLV Area Extension Youth programs, the endowment, how to contribute, or the possibilities of planned giving through an estate or philanthropy, call Larry Brown at 719-852-7381.