Nestled at the foot of the majestic Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs stands as a testament to the power of community. Rooted in the creative and compassionate ethos of its residents, our picturesque town has recently witnessed the extraordinary impact of generosity, thanks to an inspirational gift from a community member to the Manitou Springs Community Foundation.
This story begins with a single act of giving, as an esteemed member of our community, the late Ken Olson, who, with a profound understanding of the needs of our town, extended a generous donation. That donation has fanned the flames of benevolence, culminating in a beacon of hope and collaboration that extends to all corners of our vibrant town.
Ken Olson’s story is not one of solitary benevolence; it’s a narrative that exemplifies how one individual’s generosity can catalyze a collective endeavor. With his contribution, the foundation established a challenge grant of $10,000 apiece to Kidpower Colorado and Peak Education to help Manitou Springs students. These two pillars of our educational landscape, dedicated to nurturing the minds and hearts of our young, have in turn magnified the original gift, rallying the community and raising over $52,000 for their essential programs.
We have the opportunity to perpetuate the cycle of giving initiated by Ken Olson’s gift.
The largesse did not stop there; it found its way to the nurturing grounds of Flying Pig Farms. A $7,500 challenge grant was ingeniously leveraged by the farm to accrue a sum of $12,000, paving the way for the construction of a greenhouse. This structure stands as a symbol of sustainable growth and shared prosperity – attributes that Ken Olson deeply valued.
In a jubilant nod to Olson’s spirited involvement in spearheading the renown “Arts on the Avenue” program, the MS Community Foundation made an acquisition that embodies both permanence and motion – a local artist’s sculpture titled “Eternal Compass.” This piece mirrors the continuous journey of giving, guiding us towards our north star of community spirit.
But perhaps the most fitting tribute to Olson’s generosity is the creation of the MSCF Infectious Generosity Fund. Seeded with $10,000, this fund aims to cultivate the natural goodness within each of us, encouraging acts of kindness through ‘pay it forward’ initiatives and impact contests designed to enliven and enrich our community fabric.
The ripple effect of Olson’s original donation is a narrative of inspiration taking solid form. The Manitou Springs Community Foundation, through these diverse actions, encapsulates the notion that when we invest in goodness, the returns are boundless.
Generosity is not merely an act, but a mindset and culture that endures. As we have seen, the generosity of one can lift many. It can educate our children, feed our families, celebrate our artists, and motivate each of us to be a part of something greater than ourselves.
In the eternal words of Helen Keller, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” This sentiment rings true for Manitou Springs, as our community continues to weave a tapestry of generosity that not only addresses the immediate needs but also lays down the foundations for a future where each resident thrives.
How do we move forward from this point? The answer lies in the shared path illuminated by the “Eternal Compass.” Be it through volunteering, mentorship, financial support or simple daily acts of kindness, we have the opportunity to perpetuate the cycle of giving initiated by Ken Olson’s gift.
As a witness to these unfolding chapters of communal altruism, the Pikes Peak Bulletin is proud to document and celebrate the many ways our residents come together to uphold the enduring values that Ken Olson held dear. In the spirit of his largesse, let us all take a moment to ponder on our role and ways we can actively participate in the narrative of nurturing and giving back to our beloved Manitou Springs.
In closing, let us remember that generosity, like a compass, points us towards our humanity’s true direction. And as Ken Olson’s gift has revealed, when one person sets course on a voyage of giving, many will follow – charting brave new waters of hope, unity and collective prosperity for all within our extraordinary community. Please reach out if you’d like to join this movement. You can reach me at kenjaray@gmail.com.
