2026 Grant Recipients
The Wet Mountain Valley Community Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 High Mountain Hay Fever Children’s Health Fund grants.
This year marked a record-breaking cycle, with unprecedented community need and engagement. Across both funding rounds:
- 31 applications received in Round 2 alone
- $195,021 requested overall
- $72,381 awarded to 24 programs
These grants support initiatives that promote the health, well-being, and development of children across the Wet Mountain Valley—from physical health and nutrition to creative expression, recreation, and emotional well-being.
Round 1 Grant Recipients (Early Funding Cycle)
To better support winter and early spring programming, the Children’s Health Fund piloted an early funding round, awarding the following grants:
- Custer County Schools – Drama Production ($3,527)
Funding supported production costs for a community-wide student performance, fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence. - Custer County Schools – New York Theater Experience ($6,500)
Provided three senior students with an immersive theater experience including workshops, performances, and cultural exploration. - Custer County Schools – Take Flight Dyslexia Curriculum ($500)
Expanded classroom resources to support students with dyslexia through targeted reading intervention materials. - Valley Parks, Recreation & Youth – Youth Basketball Program ($4,900)
Helped reduce participation costs, making youth sports more accessible while supporting equipment, uniforms, and program operations. - West Custer County Library – Rec & Roll (Winter Program) ($1,500)
Funded winter recreational opportunities for youth and families, promoting physical activity during colder months.
Round 2 Grant Recipients
Fully Funded Programs
- Custer County Schools – Children’s Literature Library ($700)
Expanded classroom libraries to strengthen writing and critical thinking skills. - Custer County Public Health – Vision & Hearing Program ($4,710)
Provided screenings, exams, and equipment to support children’s sensory health. - Custer County Public Health – Sports Physicals ($5,000)
Funded 100 sports physicals to reduce barriers to participation. - West Custer County Library – Puppet & Me Project ($1,000)
Delivered creative programming to support social-emotional learning. - Custer County Schools – Health & Hygiene Program ($5,500)
Supplied hygiene products, first aid kits, and healthy snacks for students. - Valley Parks & Recreation – Tennis Lessons ($2,700)
Continued a long-standing program promoting physical activity and teamwork. - Custer County Schools – Playground Gaga Ball Pit ($2,700)
Added an inclusive, active play feature for students of all abilities. - Custer County Schools – Exploring the Ukulele World ($2,872)
Expanded music education and instrument access. - West Custer Library District – Rec & Roll, Part 2 ($3,375)
Extended winter recreation programming for families. - Valley Parks & Recreation – Backpack Project ($2,600)
Ensured students have essential school supplies for success. - Valley Parks & Recreation – Youth Baseball Program ($5,000)
Supported equipment and participation for youth baseball.
Partially Funded Programs
- Custer County Schools – Pre-K Transportation Safety Vests ($2,000)
Supported safety for preschool bus riders. - West Custer County Library – Touch & Tech Program ($4,000)
Expanded access to educational technology and learning tools. - Early Childhood Education Center – Preschool Learning Supplies ($1,075)
Provided hands-on learning materials for early childhood development. - Westcliffe Center for the Performing Arts – Youth Theater Puppet Workshop ($2,000)
Supported creative arts and performance opportunities. - Altitude Fitness – Youth Swim Program ($2,640)
Continued aquatics programming focused on safety and physical health. - Boy Scout Troop 114 – Camping Program ($1,800)
Helped youth achieve outdoor skills and merit badges. - Custer County Schools – Clay Busters Shooting Team ($2,000)
Supported safety-focused marksmanship training. - Veterans Rescue Ranch – Youth Horsemanship Program ($3,783)
Provided riding lessons and therapeutic engagement with horses.
Impact in Action
The Children’s Health Fund continues to be a powerful example of what community-driven philanthropy can accomplish.
From vision screenings and sports participation to arts, literacy, and outdoor experiences, these grants collectively:
- Remove barriers for children and families
- Expand access to enriching opportunities
- Support both physical and emotional well-being
- Strengthen the fabric of the Wet Mountain Valley
This year’s record-breaking cycle reflects both the growing needs and the incredible generosity of our community.