FROM THE PRESIDENT

In January of 2023, we shared that Chambers Initiative would be winding down. As part of this, Merle Chambers Fund will spend down its endowment by the end of this year (2024). Current funding recipients were notified about exit grants through 2024 and we hope our partners in philanthropy will continue to be just that – partners – as we wind down. It takes time to dismantle systemic barriers that have been in place for generations and it takes people and institutions willing to fund efforts to remove barriers to equity and create opportunity for all.

I am immensely proud of the more than $65 million Chambers Fund has invested in grant partners and initiatives over the past 40 years, steadily moving the needle toward long-term structural changes. That said, our funding only matters because of our partners on the ground, doing the work and creating change. Their knowledge, leadership, care, and commitment have been our motivation. Even though Chambers Initiative and the foundation are winding down, we have great confidence in those we have supported and look forward to their continued success after our exit.

Being a part of Colorado’s philanthropic community and journeying with all of you has been the most profound joy of my life. We will have more to say when the wind down is complete but, for now, on behalf of the board, staff, and myself: thank you, thank you, thank you.

With deepest gratitude,
Merle C. Chambers
President