Listening, Leading, Paying it Forward. Local Business Supporting Local Nonprofits

For more than a decade, Payroll Department has been a quiet but powerful partner of the Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado.

Founder Bryan Dear served on the Foundation’s board and hiring committee when Executive Director Briggen Wrinkle came onboard 13 years ago. The following year, Bryan launched the Payroll Department Grant—wanting to lead by example and show how local businesses can support local nonprofits.

As community needs have grown, Payroll Department has continued to listen. In 2025, the grant evolved from a matching model to a Pitch Palooza format, ensuring nonprofits received funding without added strain.

With support from the Community Foundation, Payroll Department clients voted to award grants to Compañeros, Alternative Horizons, and The Warming Center—all serving essential human needs. Over $20,000 was granted across these three organizations.

This partnership reflects what’s possible when local businesses invest locally, adapt with intention, and lead with community at the center.

To see more stories about the Foundation from various community members, visit our online flipbook here!