DEL NORTE— About a year ago, two individuals began a local foundation that wanted to reach out and begin helping the Del Norte community. Michael McDermott and Stan Tucker started the Tucker-McDermott Foundation in hopes of helping to elevate the Del Norte community by funding youth-based projects throughout the town. Now, a year after their inception, they have funded three local programs and are looking to fund more.
Over the past several weeks, the foundation has focused on the Del Norte High School football team and have donated just over $1,500 by the end of the season, which ended on Oct. 27 in a game against Nederland, Colorado. According to Tucker, the season was a success; the foundation generously donated $100 every time the Del Norte Tigers scored a touchdown and the result was staggering for the small school.
“The funds cannot be used for anything outside of operating costs for the team. My partner and I didn’t want anything to do with how the team decided to use the funds, but we were invited by the athletic director to discuss their options. I imagine they would use it for new uniforms or equipment they need,” explained Tucker. “We want to elevate Del Norte in any way we can. We want to fund programs that are youth-based and ones that focus on the school.”
The foundation is under the umbrella of the Southern Colorado Community Foundation who helps small foundations handle tax documents and where to invest money throughout smaller Colorado communities. According to the website, Southern Colorado Community Foundation (SCCF) is a family of funds (50+) created by individuals, businesses and organizations that care deeply about the communities of southern Colorado. The collective power of these funds represents the interests of individuals, families and groups of citizens allied in a particular cause and provides multiple opportunities for philanthropy.
“Being under the umbrella of SCCF is a great thing. They handle all of the paperwork and we get to help communities like Del Norte without all of the hassle. It’s an easier way for small organizations like us to form and help the rural communities,” explained Tucker.
Now that the football season is over, the foundation is looking for other organizations or projects in the Del Norte area to fund. They will be working to create an outdoor recreational program for area youth at the beginning of next year in order to offer summer activities in the area.