25 Stories: The First Seeds, An Original Donor Advised Fund with Gene Bradley

Gene and Sally Bradley

In 1994, Gene and Sally Bradley moved from the hustle and bustle of a great life in Chicago to one just as wonderful (and perhaps just as busy) amongst the San Juan Mountains in Durango. They brought a wealth of experience in business and philanthropy to this tight-knit community, jumping into the nonprofit scene right away.

Gene became friends with fellow philanthropists at various organizations, including Crow Canyon Archaeological Center where he provided vital leadership assistance during a transition phase. There he became good friends with Richard Ballantine, who was also helping local nonprofit leaders spearhead an organization for generating other means of funding in their small, often-tapped community. Richard asked for Gene’s advice on starting the Community Foundation, and if not already apparent, Gene was onboard!

The Bradleys promptly started a Donor Advised Fund in December of 2000, planting one of the first seeds that has allowed the Foundation to flourish, creating a long-lasting canopy of support across Southwest Colorado.

We want to thank Gene and Sally for their support of the Community Foundation since it’s absolute beginnings. Your legacy helped build up our credibility from the start, laying down strong roots for us to flourish. Thank you for your generosity and all you do for our communities!

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