Rocky Mountain Gala Brings Colorado Community Together to Support Veterans and First Responders
The inaugural Rocky Mountain Gala brought together supporters, volunteers, sponsors, and community members for an unforgettable evening celebrating the mission of Hometown Hero Outdoors and the heroes it serves.
Hosted at the beautiful Lost Dutchman Resort in Florissant, Colorado, the event welcomed approximately 90 attendees from across the region. The evening served as both a fundraiser and an opportunity to share the impact Hometown Hero Outdoors continues to make in the lives of military service members, veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS professionals, and their families.
The success of the event was made possible through the hard work and dedication of Team Colorado, whose volunteers spent countless hours planning and organizing the gala. Their efforts created an atmosphere that was both welcoming and inspiring, allowing longtime supporters and first-time guests alike to learn more about the organization’s mission and the growing need for programs that support mental health, connection, and healing through the outdoors.
One of the highlights of the evening was hearing from keynote speaker Jason Harrington, a Silver Star recipient, combat veteran, and outdoorsman. Harrington shared powerful stories of service, sacrifice, resilience, and the continued importance of finding purpose and connection after military service. His message resonated deeply with attendees and served as a reminder of why organizations like Hometown Hero Outdoors are so important.
The evening also featured an energetic and successful live auction led by Austin of Colorado Custom Game Calls. His enthusiasm, generosity, and commitment to the mission helped create an engaging experience that generated critical support for future programs and outdoor adventures.
Hometown Hero Outdoors extends sincere appreciation to the many sponsors and partners who helped make the event possible. Support from organizations such as BBB Outfitters, Big R Stores, Dragonfly Supportive Services, Colorado Custom Game Calls, and numerous local businesses and individual donors demonstrated the strength of the Colorado community’s commitment to those who have served.
Guests were also treated to generously donated swag bags provided through the support of Big R Stores, adding another memorable touch to an already outstanding evening.
While fundraising was certainly a key component of the gala, the event represented something much larger. It was a celebration of community. It was an opportunity for supporters to gather around a common purpose. Most importantly, it was a chance to strengthen the network of individuals dedicated to ensuring veterans and first responders have access to meaningful opportunities for connection, camaraderie, and healing.
Throughout the evening, attendees learned how Hometown Hero Outdoors uses outdoor adventures, peer support, and shared experiences to combat isolation, improve mental wellness, and build lasting relationships among those who serve and have served. From fishing trips and hunting adventures to family-focused events and retreats, the organization continues to provide opportunities that remind participants they are not alone.
The first Rocky Mountain Gala exceeded expectations and laid the foundation for what promises to become a signature annual event for Team Colorado. With strong community support and growing momentum, the future is bright for expanding Hometown Hero Outdoors’ impact throughout Colorado and beyond.
Hometown Hero Outdoors is grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, auction contributor, and guest who attended. Together, they are helping ensure that veterans and first responders continue to find purpose, connection, and support long after their service ends.
The Rocky Mountain Gala may have been the first of its kind, but it certainly won’t be the last.
