Our Structure
Uniquely Structured for Impact
Sam and Nancy Gary believed that business, policy and philanthropy can — and should — work together to solve the toughest challenges in our community. In addition to our foundation, we have two other entities that allow us to leverage the power of markets and government to drive systemic change and build family wealth.
Expanding the Philanthropic Toolbox
Our unique structure gives us the ability to tackle complex challenges from multiple angles, creating longer-lasting impact than any single approach could achieve alone.
1
Gary Philanthropy
Our foundation utilizes catalytic grantmaking to create long-term sustainable change, expanding the impact of our public, private and nonprofit partners as well as our new ventures.
2
Gary Advocacy
Our policy arm advances comprehensive policy and advocacy initiatives, invests in a thriving policy ecosystem, and supports ongoing improvement of public systems that better support kids and families at the state and local level.
3
Gary Ventures
Our investment company helps us put our entire balance sheet to work — philanthropy, below-market and market-rate investments alike — to transform systems for kids and families and build family wealth.
“We hope to demonstrate that our economic endeavors and our community aspirations not only can be, but must be, interdependent.”
Sam Gary,Gary Community Ventures Founder
Organizational
News & updates
2025 Colorado Election Results
Voters clear paths to more affordable child care, other key wins
Introducing Gary’s Approach to Sunset
By 2035, all the assets of Gary Community Ventures will have been transitioned from our balance sheet to the community.
DPS Foundation To Lead My Spark Denver
The Denver Public Schools Foundation (DPS Foundation) proudly announces it will assume leadership of My Spark Denver.
Impermanence Is The Future
What if philanthropy’s greatest legacy isn’t what it preserves—but what it sets in motion before it’s gone?