The Veterans Center

The Veterans Center is a Colorado nonprofit corporation formed to pay tribute to our military services members, past and present, and the rich legacy they have left us.  The Veterans Center's purpose is to serve veterans, their generational family members, local community members, and visitors in Northwestern Colorado by maintaining a prominent location in Steamboat Springs where all can celebrate a legacy of service to our country, concern for our veterans and commitment to our community. 

Our Mission

To provide a welcoming place for members of the armed forces, past and present, and their families, community members, visitors, and those persons needing assistance in accessing community resources, financial support, and community education opportunities; and for those seeking social interaction, encouragement, and physical and emotional support.

What We're Doing Now

After a year-long construction period to historically renovate the old VFW building located at 924 Lincoln Avenue, The Veterans Center officially opened July 4, 2025. It is now a central resource center for veterans and active duty military personnel and their families to:

• Provide a connection to essential medical, rehabilitative, and mental health resources,
• Assist with applications for veteran benefits, and
• Provide emergency financial assistance.  

Additionally, The Veterans Center will periodically sponsor workshops, seminars, training events, fitness and veterans yoga classes, PTSD counseling, presentations and other educational and outreach programs, and activities to support and address the needs of service members and military families, while also raising awareness of the unique issues and challenges they face during military service and successful transition to civilian life.

 Those We Serve

There are three (3) veterans organizations serving an estimated population of over 3,800 veterans who live in Northwest Colorado:

• Routt County Veterans Services Officer
• Schubring-Cruse VFW Post #4264
• American Legion Leo Hill Post #44

Number of Veterans in Northwest Colorado Counties

• Routt County:        1,319
• Moffat County:         820
• Grand County:       1,104
• Jackson County:      129
• Rio Blanco County:  423

Our FY-2026 Operating Fund

Our operating expenses are estimated to be around $150,000 annually.  These expenses include insurance, utilities, building maintenance, and staffing. Although we continue to pursue and receive small local grants, that funding alone will not be enough.  

Tax Credits

• The Veterans Center has received IRS 501c3 non-profit tax-exempt status.
• Enterprise Zone Tax Credits are available and will provide qualifying donors a 25% tax credit for eligible donations. Contributions made specifically for building maintenance, repair, and restoration qualify. 
• The goal of the current Operating Fund Campaign is to raise $150,000 to cover our monthly operating expenses for 2026.
• Additionally, the plan includes selling qualifying Colorado Historic Preservation Tax Credits, up to 35% of construction costs, to fund ongoing operating expenses, which will provide operating funds for several years.

We Need Your Help

Your donation will go directly to The Veterans Center, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  

All gifts and donations are tax deductible within the limits of the law.