The Colorado Trust Appoints Heidi Overbeck as Vice President of Grants

The Colorado Trust, a private foundation dedicated to creating fair and equal opportunities for Coloradans to lead healthy lives, is pleased to announce that Heidi Overbeck has been appointed as the vice president of grants. Overbeck, a veteran program and communications leader, will assume the role on Feb. 2.

Overbeck previously served as the chief strategy officer for the Gill Foundation, a Colorado-based organization focused on securing equality for all Americans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Between January 2020 and February 2024, Overbeck led the development and implementation of the foundation’s strategic framework, including disbursing $10 million in grants annually and building philanthropic partnerships to amplify campaigns for LGBTQ equality. Prior to that, she was the foundation’s vice president of communications.

“We are excited and honored to have Heidi join our team and lead The Colorado Trust’s grantmaking efforts at such a pivotal time for our state,” said Don Mares, president & CEO of The Colorado Trust. “I have no doubt she will hit the ground running, working to implement strategic initiatives and strengthen relationships with grantees and community groups. Her experience across various sectors will bring incredible value to ensuring we continue to provide opportunities for underserved people in Colorado to have the opportunity to thrive.”

Most recently, Overbeck led Taproot Solutions, a consulting firm she founded, where she developed strategic plans for organizations advancing public health, human rights and political inclusion. Her previous experience includes over a decade as a communications and campaign strategist for social impact and advocacy campaigns, and several years in politics and environmental advocacy in Maine. Overbeck has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Colorado College.

“Growing up in rural Colorado, I saw firsthand how access to food, housing, mental and behavioral health, and other basic needs can determine what’s possible in people’s lives,” Overbeck said. “Joining The Trust is a profound opportunity to serve the state that shaped my commitment to showing up for my neighbors in every season. I’m excited to help guide The Trust’s next strategic chapter and to support organizations across the state that are delivering meaningful, immediate improvements to the health and well-being of our fellow Coloradans.”

Overbeck was born and raised near Glenwood Springs, Colo., and has been living in Denver for the past 10 years with her husband, two children and two dogs.

About The Colorado Trust 
The Colorado Trust is a foundation dedicated to ensuring all Coloradans have the opportunity to thrive. We partner with organizations across Colorado that are working to make positive changes for people and communities. We provide funding and other resources to help every person living in Colorado have the opportunity to live a long and healthy life. Our grants support organizations and efforts focused on direct services, policy advocacy, community building, public education and more. We work side-by-side with grantees and community members to ensure grants are solution-based and effective. For more information, visit www.coloradotrust.org.