NoCo Voices

NoCo Foundation

5.0 (6)
Society & Culture
Updated Biweekly

Conversations with neighbors strengthening Northern Colorado. In each episode, Kristin Todd talks with thought leaders from Northern Colorado.

5d ago

Business as a Force for Good: Philanthropy at Every Scale in Northern Colorado

About This EpisodeWhat happens when giving back becomes part of how a business operates, not an occasional add-on, but a shared commitment woven into company culture?In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd welcomes Tim and Carol Cochran of Horse & Dragon Brewing Company and Amy Hoback of The Group Real Estate and GroupGives. Together, they explore how businesses of different sizes can use their resources, relationships, and influence to strengthen Northern Colorado.Horse & Dragon was recognized as Colorado’s Outstanding Small Business at National Philanthropy Day in 2022. The Group Real Estate received the Outstanding Large Business honor in 2025. Their approaches reflect the character of their organizations, but both demonstrate that authentic business philanthropy goes far beyond writing a check. It grows through employee participation, volunteerism, community partnerships, thoughtful grantmaking, and a willingness to keep showing up.The guests also discuss how businesses can sustain generosity during uncertain economic times, why community investment strengthens company culture, and how any business can begin regardless of its size or budget.Listeners Will Hear AboutHow philanthropy became part of the identity of Horse & Dragon and The GroupThe ways employees and business partners participate in giving and volunteerismHow each organization chooses causes and opportunities to supportWhat statewide recognition for philanthropy meant to these Northern Colorado businessesHow companies can remain generous while navigating economic uncertaintyPractical first steps for building a genuine culture of givingAbout the GuestsTim and Carol Cochran are the founders of Horse & Dragon Brewing Company in Fort Collins. The brewery’s guiding principles include treating people ethically, reducing its environmental impact, and being a proactive member of the community. Horse & Dragon supports local organizations through partnerships, events, product-based giving, volunteerism, and the gathering space it creates for community efforts.Amy Hoback is Vice President of Marketing and Technology at The Group Real Estate and chair of the GroupGives board of directors. GroupGives, a fund of the NoCo Foundation, focuses the collective generosity of The Group’s partners, engages their families and customers, and helps ensure the company’s tradition of charitable giving and volunteerism continues.ResourcesLearn about Horse & Dragon Brewing CompanyLearn about GroupGivesExplore the NoCo Voices podcast About NoCo VoicesNoCo Voices features conversations with neighbors across Northern Colorado who are building connections, strengthening community, and creating meaningful change. Each episode highlights the people and ideas shaping our region and reminds us that when we work together, we make more possible.
Oct 1

Growing with Intention: Small-Town Leadership in a Changing Northern Colorado

About This Episode What does it take to grow a town while preserving the character and connections thatmake it feel like home?In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd sits down with Matt LeCerf, townmanager for the Town of Johnstown, and Patti Garcia, town administrator for the Townof Wellington. Both are experienced municipal leaders guiding communities through aseason of significant growth, opportunity, and change.Johnstown and Wellington have deep agricultural roots and strong small-town identities.Today, they are also welcoming new residents, neighborhoods, and businesses. Withthat growth comes increasing demand for water, wastewater treatment, roads,broadband, emergency response, parks, trails, recreation, and other public services.Matt and Patti offer a candid—and lively—look at the decisions happening behind thescenes. They discuss how town leaders balance immediate needs with long-termplanning, navigate competing priorities, communicate difficult tradeoffs, and createspace for both longtime and newer residents to shape their community’s future.The conversation also explores the value of regional relationships. Through the NoCoFoundation’s Growing Communities Collaborative, municipal leaders from eightNorthern Colorado communities meet regularly to exchange ideas, share lessons, andsupport one another through the daily realities of managing growth and change.Listeners Will Learn More About- The opportunities and pressures facing Northern Colorado’s growing towns- How communities preserve small-town character while welcoming new residents- Why water, wastewater, broadband, roads, and emergency services must be plannedyears ahead- How leaders balance essential infrastructure with parks, trails, recreation, and othercommunity amenities- What thoughtful leadership looks like when every choice involves tradeoffs- How trusted regional relationships help communities learn and plan togetherOur GuestsMatt LeCerf is the town manager for the Town of Johnstown. He leads the Town’s dailyoperations, implements the priorities established by the Town Council, and coordinatesmunicipal programs and services during a period of continued growth and investment inJohnstown’s future.Patti Garcia has served as town administrator for the Town of Wellington sinceDecember 2020. She brings more than 20 years of local government experience andexpertise in municipal processes, organizational efficiency, and communityengagement. In 2026, she earned the Credentialed Manager designation from theInternational City/County Management Association.Resources- Town of Johnstown: https://johnstownco.gov/- Town of Wellington: https://www.wellingtoncolorado.gov/- Johnstown planning and development: https://johnstownco.gov/225/Planning-Development- Wellington town master plans: https://www.wellingtoncolorado.gov/607/Town-Master-PlansNoCo Voices: Conversations with neighbors strengthening Northern Colorado is apodcast from the NoCo Foundation featuring the people, partnerships, and ideashelping our region thrive.
Sep 10

A Strong Start: What Larimer County’s Childcare Investment Means for Families

About This Episode Affordable, high-quality child care is essential for young children, working families,employers, and a strong regional economy, but for many Larimer County families, it hasbecome increasingly difficult to find and afford.In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd sits down with Heather O’Hayre,director of Human Services for Larimer County, and Liz Means, Chief Strategy Officerfor Northern Colorado Kids Thrive, to explore the state of early childhood care andeducation in Larimer County and the new community investment taking shape.In November 2025, voters approved a 0.25% countywide sales and use tax dedicated toaddressing the shortage and high cost of childcare and preschool. The funding isintended to make care more affordable for eligible families, strengthen and expand theearly childhood workforce, increase provider capacity through targeted facilityimprovements, and support program administration and evaluation.Heather and Liz discuss what led to the measure, how Larimer County and NorthernColorado Kids Thrive are working together, and what families and providers can expectas programs are developed and implemented. They also explore a larger truth:childcare is not only a family issue, it is vital infrastructure for a thriving community.Listeners Will Learn More About- The current childcare landscape in Larimer County- What voters approved through Ballot Issue 1B- How funding is expected to support families, educators, and providers- The partnership between Larimer County and Northern Colorado Kids Thrive- How the initiative will be implemented and evaluated- Why early childhood investment matters to the entire regionOur GuestsHeather O’Hayre is the director of Human Services for Larimer County. With more than20 years of experience in human and social services, her work has included childwelfare, juvenile justice, public policy, and improving outcomes for vulnerable children,families, and adults. In 2025, she was named Director of the Year by the ColoradoHuman Services Directors Association.Liz Means is the Chief Strategy Officer of Northern Colorado Kids Thrive, formerly theEarly Childhood Council of Larimer County. The nonprofit connects families with earlychildhood resources and supports local child care and preschool providers throughtraining, coaching, professional development, and funding opportunities.Resources- Larimer County Human Services: https://www.larimer.gov/humanservices- Northern Colorado Kids Thrive: https://www.nocokidsthrive.org/- Ballot Measure 1B next steps: https://www.nocokidsthrive.org/yeson1b- Child care resources for families: https://www.nocokidsthrive.org/for-families- Larimer Child Care Connect: https://www.nocokidsthrive.org/lc3-providersNoCo Voices: Conversations with neighbors strengthening Northern Colorado is apodcast from the NoCo Foundation featuring the people, partnerships, and ideashelping our region thrive. https://nocofoundation.org/noco-voices-podcast
Aug 6

Rural Roots, Regional Impact: The Northeast Colorado Intersections Report

What can we learn when we listen deeply to rural communities? In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd sits down with John Chapdelaine, Vice President of Eastern Colorado at the NoCo Foundation, to explore the newly released Northeast Colorado Intersections Report. Developed in partnership with Colorado State University Engagement and Extension, the report brings together data, community voices, and lived experiences from Logan, Morgan, Phillips, Sedgwick, Washington, and Yuma counties. Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and strengths shaping Northeastern Colorado and what those insights mean for the future of our entire region. John shares his perspective on rural philanthropy, community leadership, and why investing in relationships is essential to strengthening communities. The conversation explores how the report can help guide future partnerships, inform philanthropic investments, and elevate the voices of residents who know their communities best. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of: • The purpose and findings of the Northeast Colorado Intersections Report • What rural philanthropy looks like in practice • Emerging opportunities across Northeastern Colorado • The role of local leadership in creating lasting change • Why Eastern Colorado's success is connected to the future of Northern Colorado Whether you're a community leader, donor, nonprofit professional, or simply curious about the people and places that help shape our region, this conversation offers valuable insight into the power of listening, collaboration, and community-driven solutions. Resources • Read the Northeast Colorado Intersections Report: https://nocofoundation.org/necointersections • Learn more about the NoCo Foundation's Eastern Colorado work: https://nocofoundation.org/communities-served/eastern-colorado/ • Learn more about the NoCo Foundation: https://www.nocofoundation.org About NoCo Voices NoCo Voices features conversations with neighbors across Northern Colorado who are building connections, strengthening community, and creating meaningful change. Together, we're exploring the ideas, partnerships, and people shaping our region's future.https://nocofoundation.org/noco-voices-podcast
Jul 9

When Disaster Strikes: Preparedness, Recovery, and the Long Road Forward

In this episode of NoCo Voices, host Kristin Todd welcomes Lori Hodges, Director of the Larimer County Office of Emergency Management, and Hally Strevey, Executive Director of the Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed, for a conversation about disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and resilience in Northern Colorado. Together, they explore what happens before, during, and long after a wildfire, flood, or other natural disaster. Lori shares how emergency managers help communities prepare for emergencies and coordinate response efforts when disaster strikes. Hally discusses the lasting impacts disasters can have on watersheds and natural systems, and why environmental recovery is deeply connected to community recovery. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration among public agencies, nonprofits, community organizations, and residents. It also explores how philanthropy can help fill critical gaps during long-term recovery, supporting both people and places long after emergency response efforts have ended. Listeners will learn about:• How communities can prepare before disaster strikes • What happens during the first hours and days of an emergency • The realities of long-term disaster recovery • The connection between watershed health and community resilience • The role philanthropy plays in supporting recovery efforts • How partnerships are helping strengthen wildfire resilience across Northern ColoradoThis episode is a reminder that recovery isn't a moment, it's a process. And building resilient communities requires all of us working together. Resources Emergency Alerts • Sign up for Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority (LETA) emergency alerts: https://www.leta911.org/ • Learn about emergency preparedness resources: https://www.larimer.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/2023/em_prep_guide_final_04.26.2023.pdf Organizations Featured in This Episode • Larimer County Office of Emergency Management: https://www.larimer.gov/emergency • Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed: https://www.poudrewatershed.org/ Support Recovery Efforts • Learn more about the NoCo Foundation Disaster Recovery Fund: https://nocofoundation.org/noco-disaster-recovery-fund/ • Make a donation to support long-term disaster recovery efforts in Northern Colorado: https://cfnc.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3013 Preparedness Resources • Build an emergency kit https://www.larimer.gov/sites/default/files/uploads/2017/lcdhe-72-hour-emergency-kit.pdf • Create a family communication plan • Know your evacuation routes • Stay informed through local emergency notification systems About NoCo Voices NoCo Voices features conversations with neighbors across Northern Colorado who are building connections, strengthening community, and creating meaningful change. Together, we're exploring the ideas, partnerships, and people shaping our region's future.https://nocofoundation.org/noco-voices-podcast
Jun 25

More Than a Meal: Connection, Community, and the Power of Intersections

In this episode of NoCo Voices, Kristin Todd explores the NoCo Foundation’s Intersections work, an approach to understanding how complex community challenges are connected across Northern Colorado.She’s joined by Jeff Pomranka, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Loveland Berthoud, to share how their work goes far beyond delivering meals. From reducing social isolation to creating job training opportunities, Meals on Wheels is a powerful example of how connection, care, and opportunity intersect to strengthen a community.
Jun 4

Cracking the Housing Puzzle: Regional Solutions in Action

Housing is one of the most urgent challenges facing Northern Colorado, and one that requires regional solutions. Kristin Todd is joined by Ann Hutchison and Brooke Cunningham to explore how cross-sector collaboration, new funding tools, and regional thinking are shaping the future of housing across Larimer and Weld Counties.
May 14

How to Be a Philanthropist (Hint, You Already Are)

Philanthropy isn’t just about big gifts, it’s about how we show up for our communities every day. In this episode, Kristin Todd talks with two participants in the NoCo Changemakers program about redefining philanthropy, learning through collective giving, and taking meaningful action in Northern Colorado.
Apr 9

The State of the Nonprofit Sector in Northern Colorado

As Northern Colorado’s nonprofit sector faces rising demand, funding pressures, and shifting expectations, this episode explores how organizations are adapting in real time. Kristin Todd is joined by three leaders who share candid insights on resilience, innovation, and the evolving role of nonprofits as essential partners in community well-being.
Mar 26

From Greeley to Fort Collins: A Conversation on Regional Strength

What does it take to build a stronger region across different communities, perspectives, and priorities? Former mayors John Gates and Jeni Arndt join Kristin Todd to reflect on leadership, regional collaboration, and the relationships that make progress possible across Weld and Larimer Counties.
Mar 12

Conversations with Neighbors Strengthening Northern Colorado

Welcome to the inaugural episode of NoCo Voices. Host Kristin Todd, President of the NoCo Foundation, is joined by Board Chair Nick Roe and Board Member Nicole Staudinger to introduce the purpose behind the podcast—and the role of the NoCo Foundation in strengthening Northern Colorado. Together, they explore why local stories matter, how philanthropy fuels community impact, and what listeners can expect from future conversations.

11 Episodes

5

out of 5

6 Ratings

Conversations with neighbors strengthening Northern Colorado. In each episode, Kristin Todd talks with thought leaders from Northern Colorado.

Creator

NoCo Foundation
Years Active

2026
Episodes

11
Rating

Clean
Show Website

NoCo Voices