The George Fund provides financial assistance to Ouray County youth who wish to pursue outdoor or experiential educational opportunities for personal and interpersonal growth.
We believe that profound learning is often facilitated by time spent in the mountains, deserts, rivers and oceans of the world. These experiences provide an arena for leadership development and other lifelong skills.
“While we spent time thinking about our past on the river trip, we also thought about the future. We were able to really consider what we valued most in life and decide what path we want to take.” Reflection from a Ridgway Senior following a raft trip supported by the George Fund.
Helping Ouray County youth explore the outdoors to foster personal growth and a compassionate world view.
George Gardner was a friend, mentor and teacher for over 35 years to kids and adults of all ages. His myriad skills and commitment to the potential of each student allowed him to teach a variety of subjects from elementary level through college.
George especially loved the outdoor classroom. He was a mountaineer and guide for the Exum Mountain Guides in Wyoming and the Colorado Outward Bound School. The Tabor Mountain School, George’s own experiential based program, utilized his local San Juan Mountains for his summer classroom. Throughout all of George’s educational and teaching experiences his enthusiasm for learning was contagious and he was a master at bringing out the best in his students. Kids felt comfortable trying new experiences encouraged by his ego-less and loving approach to all things. Most importantly he believed that students learned by doing. He taught kids teamwork and interpersonal skills that carried over into everyday life.
The fund was started after his death in a mountaineering accident in the summer of 2008 on the Grand Teton. Many friends and family wanted to continue to support the types of programs George initiated.
Organization name
George Gardner Scholarship Fund
other names
The George Fund
2008
Tax id (EIN)
46-3637800
Category
Youth Development, Education, Environment, Human Services, Public & Societal Benefit, Recreation & Sports
Organization Size
Small Organization
Address
PO BOX 383Ouray County, CO, US