Colorado Gives Day is more than just a day. It’s a movement that inspires and unites thousands of donors to give where they live and support Colorado nonprofits.  Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) has joined forces with 70 other non-profits in Southwest Colorado to highlight our region on the statewide giving day of December 10, 2019.

For over 20 years, CRIA and its volunteers have shared the story of the ancestral Puebloan people with thousands of visitors through tours and special programs at Chimney Rock National Monument. Historic places like Chimney Rock reflect the past while enriching our future, but without public support, CRIA would be unable to provide the interpretive program that keeps Chimney Rock’s history alive for future generations.

In 2017 CRIA introduced “School Week at Chimney Rock” in which students from across the four corners and beyond enjoy hands-on cultural activities and a tour of Chimney Rock pre-season, at no cost. In 2019, CRIA provided this free program to 14 classroom groups, totaling 475 students.  CRIA’s Education Committee, a group of experienced educators, has developed special projects and an outreach mobile classroom kit that provides an enhanced experience for these young people in the hope that they will value sites such as Chimney Rock and preserve cultural heritage.

In hopes of funding educational projects, volunteer recruitment/training, and the interpretive programs that help keep Chimney Rock National Monument a local attraction, CRIA is participating in Colorado Gives Day on Tuesday, December 10th, 2019.  Please help CRIA reach their goal of $3,000 this year on Colorado’s largest day of giving.

These are some of the reasons why is it important that the greater community support these local non-profits with donations. Give where you live and support local Archuleta County non-profits participating in Colorado Gives Day by going to www.swcogives.org. Gifts can be scheduled now for December 10th.  For more information about CRIA and Chimney Rock National Monument, please go to www.ChimneyRockCo.org.