Community First Foundation Names New CEO

ARVADA, CO (January 31, 2019) – Community First Foundation announced today it will appoint Kelly S. Dunkin as its new president and chief executive officer, effective February 19, 2019. The Arvada-based foundation’s vision is to fuel positive change through the power of community.

Dunkin replaces Marla J. Williams, who is retiring in February 2019 after an eight-year career at the Foundation. Building on Williams’ strong leadership, Dunkin brings a unique blend of nonprofit, business and social impact expertise that will move the Foundation forward.

“Community First Foundation has played an important role in strengthening nonprofits, improving community health in Jefferson County, and increasing mental wellness throughout the state,” said Dunkin. “I am honored to join such a strong organization and talented team. I share the Foundation’s belief in the power of people and philanthropy to make a meaningful impact, and I look forward to building on a strong foundation to increase generosity and power positive change.”

Dunkin will transition into this new position after serving as national director of 10.10.10, a project of Colorado Nonprofit Development Center that inspires entrepreneurs to solve 10 “wicked problems.” Previously Dunkin served for 11 years at The Colorado Health Foundation in Denver, culminating in the role of vice president of philanthropy.

“Not only does Kelly bring foundation experience, she has a bias towards innovation along with solid ideas on how Community First Foundation can move the needle around community impact,” said Lynne Valencia, chair of Community First Foundation’s board of directors. “The board and I are excited about Kelly’s upcoming tenure as our CEO.”

Dunkin earned a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She has served on numerous boards, including the Downtown Denver Partnership Denver Civic Ventures, Colorado Association of Funders and Girls on the Run.

About Community First Foundation

Since 1975, Community First Foundation has been helping generous donors and innovative nonprofits come together to improve the quality of life and create positive change in Jefferson County, the Denver metropolitan area and beyond. We serve as a connector, partner, collaborator and resource to fuel the power of community for the greater good. We are proud to use our energy, leadership and trusted stewardship of financial resources to energize giving across our state, strengthen nonprofits, support donors and find new ways to address community needs.

Contact: Beth McConkey, 720.898.5919
bmcconkey@CommunityFirstFoundation.org