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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The Buell Early Childhood Leadership Program Is Back
We are excited to announce the relaunch of our legacy leadership program, the Buell Early Childhood Leadership Program (BECLP). Careful planning, consideration, and attention have been dedicated to this curriculum and relaunch to ensure that the next iteration will continue to be transformative and impactful for program participants. Through the program, fellows will engage […]
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New Publication: Lodging Taxes In Colorado: A Tool for Community Investment
We are pleased to release Lodging Taxes In Colorado: A Tool for Community Investment. This toolkit is designed to serve as a guide for elected leaders and local advocates as they seek to utilize HB25-1247. Investing in Colorado’s youngest children isn’t charity—it is basic infrastructure and provides a strong return on investment. Philanthropy alone won’t […]
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Buell Foundation Partners with DOLA to Fully Fund New Child Care Planning Grant Program
In a press release distributed Nov. 20, 2025, the Buell Foundation has announced that it’s partnered with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) to fully fund a new child care planning grant program, marking the first time the program has granted funds to municipalities and counties across the state. This collaboration seeks to strengthen […]
Grantee Spotlight
Learn about the important work of our partners in Colorado’s early childhood communities.
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The Colorado Fatherhood NetworkThe Vital Role Fathers Play in Children’s Lives
"Buell's funding has empowered us to facilitate meaningful conversations and implement innovative strategies that have resulted in improved outcomes for fathers, children, and families.""
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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.""
