Give to KMC

Make Miles of Difference

Surrounded by the Roosevelt National Forest, the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, is a year-round outdoor jewel that offers a breathtaking escape into nature's embrace. This extension of the University of Denver invites you to immerse yourself in stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and a tranquil haven that fosters personal growth and character development.

At the Kennedy Mountain Campus, we believe in nurturing the whole person through our unique 4D Experience. This holistic approach supports the growth of mind, body, spirit, and community, empowering individuals to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

Together, we can continue to shape the lives of those who seek solace, inspiration, and self-discovery amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Join us in this journey of exploration, renewal, and empowerment - become a part of a new legacy at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus.

The Vision of James C. Kennedy

The Kennedy Mountain Campus was made possible by a generous gift from James C. Kennedy because he shared in the vision to add an intentional set of outdoor experiences for students at DU. As a DU student in the late 60s, Mr. Kennedy spent many weekends in the Rocky Mountains, hiking, biking, skiing, hunting, fishing, and camping. These moments in the mountains set the stage for his lifelong commitment to the outdoors, a conservation ethic, and the values of being outdoors for one’s well-being.

Mr. Kennedy’s visionary gift allowed DU to acquire the property in 2021 and launch programming in 2022. Your gift to the Kennedy Mountain Campus Fund helps us secure this vision and legacy for generations of DU students.

Give until it feels good.

James C. Kennedy, BSBA '70
james kennedy speaking at podium


Become a KMC Mile Maker

Your gift to the KMC Mile Maker funds supports trail development, outdoor recreation, education, and environmental conservation efforts at the Kennedy Mountain Campus. By supporting our student trail building program, you help enhance the property, now and in the future. The beauty and spirit of a trail system is critical to maximizing an accessible outdoor experience and protecting the pristine natural environment. The trail system at the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus must be designed and rebuilt incrementally, a project that will take several years and membership support to make happen.

Please consider becoming a KMC Mile Maker donor today and making a difference in the lives and legacy of the DU community.

  • Your $100 gift trains a trail crew leader in CPR/First Aid & AED Training 

  • Your $250 gift equips two volunteer student crew members with the needed tools

  • Your $500 gift allows us to build 5 feet of boardwalk in designated trail areas 

  • Your $1,000 gift allows us to take care of the gnarly rock work in designated trail areas

  • Your $5,000 gift allows us to build a new trail section at the Kennedy Mountain Campus

  • Your $10,000 gift allows us to build best-in-class accessible trail sections

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Join the KMC Mile Makers

Make miles of difference for DU Students by supporting the implementation of our accessible trail network with a reoccurring gift. 

Give Now

Benefits for KMC Mile Makers

Making Miles of Difference

When you become a KMC Mile Maker donor, you're making a significant impact on students, DU community, as well as our pristine natural environment. Your donation supports our trail building efforts at the Kennedy Mountain Campus.

Trail Building Days

Join us for KMC Trail Building Days, with the DU Trailblazers program. Work alongside fellow KMC Mile Makers, students, and volunteers to expand our trail network and explore the KMC property. This is a hands-on opportunity to make a lasting impact, learn sustainable trail-building techniques, and connect with fellow nature enthusiasts.

Priority Registration

KMC Mile Makers receive priority access and early registration for select Kennedy Mountain Campus events. Information about upcoming events, including dates and descriptions, is shared on the KMC website as we develop our Events Calendar.

Barbara and I immediately saw this as a game changer for DU – and we wanted to help support it.

Andy C. Taylor, BSBA '70, Hon. PhD ‘01 Donor Profile


Capital, Endowment & Named Gifts

In addition to our KMC Mile Makers donors and volunteers, we’re also grateful for the generosity of individuals, foundations and companies who support our goal of ensuring no student will ever pay additional tuition for their Kennedy Mountain Campus experiences through endowed funds and naming opportunities on the property. To learn more and get involved, please contact Amanda Stewart, our Executive Director of Development.

Miles

Forge and sustain a mile of trail, the bedrock supporting our journey. Step into a legacy that celebrates the boundless potential of every stride.

Cabins

Collaborate with your graduating class to support and name one of our lodging facilities at the Kennedy Mountain Campus. Your effort ensures a place of retreat and connection for generations to come.

Facilities

Support our mission of offering one-of-a-kind, four-billion-year-in-the-making education and outdoor programs. Join us in preserving the essence of nature's classroom.

We invite you to reach out with any questions you have about philanthropy at the Kennedy Mountain Campus.