FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The award, which in future years will be named in her honor as the Sharon Magness Blake Transformative Philanthropy Award, was presented May 6, 2024 during Volunteers of America’s national conference near Washington, D.C.
VOA National President and CEO Mike King said, “We are proud to present this award to honor those who give selflessly. Today, we recognize Sharon Magness Blake, whose volunteer efforts have raised over $36 million for Volunteers of America Colorado. Her dedication and inspiration are invaluable.”
In 1994, Magness Blake co-founded Western Fantasy, a dinner, auction and country music showcase which for 30 years reigned as one of Denver’s hallmark philanthropic events. The annual gala raised tens of millions of dollars in support of VOA’s work in the region. A former VOA Colorado board member, Magness Blake opened Western Fantasy each year by circling the host venue astride her Arabian horse Thunder, mascot of the Denver Broncos, while holding an American flag.
“Sharon’s long-standing leadership and generosity is demonstrated by her commitment to the now-famous Western Fantasy,” King said. “Thank you Sharon for your vision, dedication and labor of love.”
The Sharon Magness Blake Transformative Philanthropy Award honors individuals, couples or families who have made a significant impact in supporting Volunteers of America through philanthropy. Recipients demonstrate outstanding philanthropic support by donating time, money, experience, skills and talent. The award recognizes those who have profoundly influenced VOA programs and services within their community.
In Colorado, VOA provides more than 50 distinct human service programs and changes the lives of nearly 100,000 people in-need each year. VOA Colorado’s services include housing and emergency shelters, hunger and nutrition services, and many other community support programs. Learn more at www.voacolorado.org.
# # #
About Volunteers of America
