Our History
Temple Buell’s architectural legacy in Colorado began the Foundation’s evolving philanthropic commitment to children and families throughout the state.
Our Founder & Namesake
Temple Hoyne Buell
Temple Buell was an influential and renowned architect, real estate developer, and philanthropist in Denver, known for his work in designing some of the city’s notable and historic buildings. He also pioneered the concept of the modern shopping mall.
Important Events in Our History
Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation was created
From 1985-1988, the Buell Foundation primarily granted to universities in support of major capital projects or endowed positions
Temple Hoyne Buell passes away at age 94
$3 million granted to the Denver Center for the Performing Arts for the Temple Hoyne Buell Theatre
Dan Ritchie began his tenure as the Foundation's Board Chairman
Ritchie ultimately guided grantmaking in a new direction focused on broad benefit to the communities in Colorado. His leadership would support the Foundation for nearly 30 years, establishing Buell as a leader in early childhood.
$75,000 awarded to Qualistar Colorado to establish an objective quality rating system of child care in our state
Board of Trustees narrows the Foundation’s focus primarily on early childhood and areas outside of metropolitan Denver
Creation of the Buell Early Childhood Leadership Program (BECLP)
Buell Foundation is one of six convening organizations of Colorado Executives Partnering to Invest in Children (EPIC)
Buell Foundation is recognized as Outstanding Foundation in Colorado
District-Based School Transitions Initiative is launched to support school districts as they work to increase the success of children entering kindergarten from various early learning programs
Early Milestones Colorado is created in partnership with five other foundations to accelerate early childhood efforts in the state
LAUNCH Together begins with a $1.1 million investment over five years
Transforming Colorado’s Early Childhood Workforce Initiative launches via a funding partnership with Gary Community Investments (total of $2.3 million granted over five years)
Board approves new initiative to expand support for Colorado Early Childhood Councils up to $2.3 million annually for three years and was subsequently renewed in 2022 for three additional years
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Buell awards nearly $2 million in emergency relief for early child care in Colorado
Board votes to adopt an expanded focus on advocacy
Workforce Initiative launches with up to $2 million invested per year for three to five years to address acute early childhood workforce issues facing communities across Colorado
History of the Buell Foundation's Evolving Priorities
In 1996, the Foundation began strategic support of programs and initiatives for children. The Foundation emphasized the areas of early intervention, prevention, and improving the social and educational systems critical to the well-being of Colorado’s youngest community members.
News
Stay informed with updates about what’s happening at the Buell Foundation.
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Updates to Early Childhood Connect: Federal Changes and Impacts
Are you interested in learning about—and staying updated on—how federal funding changes impact Colorado’s early childhood system? Visit Early Childhood Connect, a centralized information hub with unbiased resources to support families, providers, and other partners. Visit the website for: Bi-weekly social media updates for fast-moving issues Monthly “what you need to know” updates across the […]
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Celebrating Home Visiting Week’s Inaugural Year
In recognition of the first-ever National Home Visiting Week (NHVW) from April 21-25, 2025, we shine a light on the incredible work of Colorado home visitors who support families and children where it matters most—right at home. From early childhood development to parenting support and health education, these everyday heroes walk alongside families, helping them […]
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Addressing CCCAP Freeze, Buell Foundation Featured in The Colorado Sun’s Op-Ed
“If you’ve tried to apply for child care assistance recently, a message on your county’s human services website may have sent chills down your spine: Due to budgetary constraints, the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program is on an enrollment freeze.” “When care is too expensive, parents also can’t go to work. When parents can’t work, business […]
Grantee Spotlight
Learn about the important work of our partners in Colorado’s early childhood communities.
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Early Childhood Council of Larimer CountyThe Indispensable Role and Impact of One of Colorado’s Early Childhood Councils
"We often call on our program officers to discuss emerging issues, put our heads together on next steps, and utilize each other’s expertise ... Buell is doing it right when it comes to philanthropy.""
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Early Childhood Service CorpsWorkforce Solutions Through Intergenerational Support
"The Buell Foundation has been instrumental in helping us scale our intergenerational program that supports the recruitment and retention of Colorado’s early childhood caregivers," said Armao."
