Who We Are
Funding for Denver Education Nonprofits
Prosperity Denver Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that offers financial reimbursement to qualifying 501(c)3 nonprofits that provide college scholarships to Denver students. The organization was started in 2018, after Denver voters passed a ballot initiative known as Prosperity Denver. The ordinance called for a 0.08% sales tax (less than one cent on $10), which would be distributed in the form of reimbursements to nonprofits providing scholarships to Denver students. Prosperity Denver Fund exists to reimburse qualifying organizations, what we call our “supported organizations.” But we also educate Denver’s teachers, students, and families about these opportunities. In our brief history, we’re thrilled to have funded thousands of scholarships and made millions of dollars in reimbursements.
A Strong Economy is Built on Education
College continues to be a path to compete in today’s evolving job market. Before the pandemic, college proved a financial possibility for just under half of Denver’s high school students (as of 2020). That number has decreased due to COVID, putting Denver’s students at risk of lacking workforce skills to compete in the evolving job market.
What’s evident is that a two-year or four-year college degree is a game changer for Denver’s high school students, from increasing their income potential to building economic prosperity and the possibility of home ownership. It’s a path toward building a prosperous future and contributing to Denver’s economy. Yet what is also clear is that while Denver high school students have the ability and drive to achieve in college, the potential financial burden keeps them from pursuing it.
Welding Student at Emily Griffith Technical College
Psychology Major & Art Minor at MSU
How Prosperity Denver Fund Contributes
Mitigating the front-end investment minimizes a student’s debt and ensures they are equipped to contribute to their local economy after graduation. That’s why Prosperity Denver Fund exists, to help support the broad network of 501(c)3 nonprofits that offer scholarships to Denver’s students. Together, we’re making college an affordable reality for Denver high school students.
Executive Staff and Board of Directors
Rebecca Arno, Chief Executive Officer
As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Prosperity Denver Fund, Rebecca Arno is responsible for overseeing the Fund’s daily operations, as well as outreach to Denver’s community and nonprofits sponsored by the Fund.
Amy Franklin, Data & Evaluation Director
As Data & Evaluation Director for Prosperity Denver Fund, Amy Franklin is responsible for collecting and synthesizing data to ensure that we are meeting our goals.
Brian Labra Vergara, Program Support Specialist
As Program Support Specialist, Brian Labra Vergara, supports our Supported Organizations through the distribution process and works in collaboration with them to generate community awareness of our partnership.
Korrine Salas Young, Community Engagement Director
As Community Engagement Director for Prosperity Denver Fund, Korrine Salas Young is responsible for leading the Fund’s outreach and communication initiatives.
Prosperity Denver Fund has a seven-member Board of Directors, four of whom are appointed by the Mayor and one of whom is approved by City Council. The Board is responsible for the implementation of the ordinance and reports annually to the Mayor, City Council, and Auditor. Board meetings are open to the public.
Theresa Peña, Chair
(April 2019 - May 2026)
As Chair of Prosperity Denver Fund, Theresa Peña oversees all operations and ensures the Fund operates efficiently and transparently. She is an engaged community member and primarily involved in local education initiatives.
Stephen Kurtz,
Vice Chair/Treasurer
(April 2019 - May 2025)
Stephen Kurtz serves as Vice Chair and Treasurer of the Prosperity Denver Fund Board, providing guidance and leadership. He is also Chairman and CEO of MuscleSound ®, Inc.
Milagros Barsallo Rubio
(April 2024 - May 2027)
Milagros Barsallo Rubio is an active member of the Prosperity Denver Board. She also serves as the Outreach Director in the Denver Mayor’s Office.
Mark Goodman
(April 2019 - May 2024)
Mark Goodman is an active member of the Prosperity Denver Board. He also serves as Chairman and CEO of the Colorado Nut Holding Company.
Polica Houston
(April 2023 - May 2026)
Polica Houston is an active member of the Prosperity Denver Board. He is an expert thought partner to numerous educators and organizations as they navigate turnaround, leadership, and culture challenges.
Diana Romero Campbell
(April 2023 - May 2026)
Diana Romero Campbell is an active member of the Prosperity Denver Board. She is the newly elected Councilwoman representing District 4 on Denver City Council.
Jason Wardrip
(April 2024 - May 2027)
Jason Wardrip is an active member of the Prosperity Denver Board. He serves as the business manager for the Colorado Building and Construction Trades Council.