Sustainability
Copper Environmental Foundation
The Copper Environmental Foundation (CEF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the environmental sustainability of Copper and the surrounding areas. CEF will support (through directly funding) youth (ages 5-18) environmental programs and projects in Colorado’s Summit and Lake Counties.
If you are interested in learning more about the Copper Environmental Organization or are a non-profit looking to apply for a yearly grant, please email environment@coppercolorado.com.
History of the CEF
The CEF was founded in 2007 by Copper employees with a broad mission to support environmental programs in Summit and Lake Counties. Copper Employees voluntarily contribute to the CEF through tax-deductible donations from their paychecks, and Copper Mountain matches their donations at 100%. All funds collected are distributed through grants to local organizations during an annual grant cycle during the spring. Organizations may apply for funding, and all grant applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors to determine which programs will be funded during each grant cycle.
From 2008 – 2024 the CEF, thanks to the generous donations of employees and the match by Copper, has granted over $475,000. These grants included projects such as Girl Scouts overnight Keystone Science School trip, Keystone Science School Education in Action, Friends of the Dillon Ranger District Youth Stewards Program, High Country Conservation Center- Energy Explorers program, Summit Country Pre-School - How does your garden grow educational program, and Cloud City Conservation Center - Composting and Recycling education program.
Testimonials
Mountain Sprouts Academy
The funding we received from the Copper Environmental Fund has made a direct and meaningful impact on our gardening project at Mountain Sprouts Academy. Their support allowed us to create an engaging, hands-on outdoor learning space where children can explore nature, learn about sustainability, and take part in growing their own food. This garden has become a living classroom that nurtures curiosity, responsibility, and connection to our mountain environment, bringing our goal of environmental education to life in a tangible way.
Mountain Top Explorium
Thanks to the generous support of the Copper Environmental Foundation (CEF), Mountain Top Explorium launched a new Vermiculture Program for ages 3–4 and revised elements of the Recycling and Waste Reduction Program for ages 4–5. These complementary programs were intentionally designed to alternate annually, ensuring students receive fresh, developmentally appropriate environmental education each year we visit their classrooms. CEF funding also allowed us to strengthen at-home learning through expanded blog resources and enhanced take-home activities—encouraging families to continue learning beyond the classroom by sorting waste at home and creating simple worm compost systems together. This support has been instrumental in advancing our mission to inspire sustainable habits from an early age.
Cloud City Conservation Center
During the summer of 2025, the Growing Stewards internship program at Cloud City Farm empowered two Lake County youth, Aimee and Ada, to become active contributors to local food production and community well-being. With the support of the Copper Environmental Foundation, these interns dedicated 250 hours to growing more than 3,200 pounds of fresh produce, while also gaining hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, business, and public engagement. Through mentorship and immersive learning, they developed practical skills, built confidence, and discovered new career pathways in environmental stewardship. We are grateful to CEF for funding this program, which continues to cultivate the next generation of young people working toward a healthier, more sustainable Lake County.
