The Vail Valley Partnership- the Chamber & Tourism Bureau today announced the winner of the Non-Profit of the Year. The Bright Future Foundation (BFF), formerly known as the Women\u2019s Resource Center, was first nominated by their peers in the business community and ultimately selected as the winner by the Success Awards Committee, a group comprised of representatives of Eagle County business associations and community leaders. <\/p>\n
The Bright Future Foundation was formerly known as the Women\u2019s Resource Center in the early 1980s when it first began as a local grassroots organization initiated by women who were determined to bring awareness to domestic violence issues in Eagle County. Much has changed since then, including a new name, new facilities and new programs, while the mission has not changed: to empower individuals and families affected by domestic violence and abuse. <\/p>\n
With outreach offices in Avon, the local non-profit works steadfast to provide valuable programs and resources to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or abuse throughout Eagle County. The team at BFF provides a 24\/7 crisis hotline (970-949-7086) in both English and Spanish, free counseling services, legal advocacy, lodging at the Freedom Ranch Safehouse, transitional housing and vocational training. <\/p>\n
Executive Director, Sheri Mintz is extremely proud of the work her staff does and the lives that they change, but Mintz firmly believes that educational and prevention programs in the local community and schools are the necessary component in stopping the cycle of violence. \u201cAs much as we do a good job responding to crisis situations with domestic violence and sexual assault, our ultimate goal is to eliminate it all together in our community and we can do only do that through our youth advocacy work,\u201d said Mintz. <\/p>\n
Bright Future Foundation\u2019s prevention work in the community includes their youth advocacy program, which provides direct counsel to children who have been exposed to domestic violence, working with local schools to provide educational sessions on healthy relationships and partnering at-risk children with an adult in their Buddy Mentor program. <\/p>\n
Looking forward, the Bright Future Foundation hopes to expand their transitional housing program, which helps victims meet educational or vocational goals and prepare for a new life. The local non-profit feels extremely honored to be recognized for their work in the field of domestic violence prevention and education and hopes this opportunity can be used as a chance to spread their mission and message. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis recognition means everything to us. The work that we do on a daily basis is emotional and it\u2019s difficult. For the staff to have their incredible work be acknowledged, it is validating and an honor and it brings recognition to what we do. They (the staff) change lives,\u201d said Mintz. <\/p>\n
The Vail Valley Partnership- the Chamber & Tourism Bureau has long been a supporter of local non-profit organizations and is pleased to continue its support with the 9th Annual Success Awards. A portion of the proceeds of the silent auction will help benefit the BFF. If would like to donate a silent auction item in support of the BFF, please contact Jennifer Weintraub at 970-477-4001. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhile dealing with issues like domestic violence requires a level of anonymity on the part of staff members, it is wonderful to see the Bright Future Foundation being recognized by our nomination committee for their commitment and dedication in the community. The Bright Future Foundation plays a vital role in helping people from all walks of life and for that, they are well-deserving of this award,\u201d said Chris Romer, executive director of the Partnership. <\/p>\n
The remaining category winners will be announced at the 9th Annual Success Awards at the Vail Marriott Mountain Resort & Spa. The event includes a themed awards ceremony, dinner and dancing event on February 10, 2012. <\/p>\n