Meet Michele Meyer | Executive Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michele Meyer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michele, what do you want your legacy to be?
That’s a big question!  I have dedicated my career to nonprofit work and believe in making a difference in my community. I am honored to represent my organization in the community and work to not only keep it a wonderful place, but build for the future. As Routt County and Steamboat Springs continue to grow, change is inevitable but we can hold onto the shared values around why people are attracted to this community. Whether people have lived here their entire lives or just moved to the area, the common reason is the natural beauty of the region and the people. I personally encourage everyone to follow their passions, whether its the environment, arts, education or recreation, and to get involved. If we share a love for this community, then we owe it to one another and future generations, to work together to keep it a great place. I work hard to model and truly live that belief in our community.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I began my professional career with United Way in fundraising and marketing. I think what has helped me be successful with fundraising is that I don’t take it personally, meaning if someone says no to an ask for a contribution, I understand that it is for their reasons and not a reflection on what they think about me. Being able to separate asking on behalf of a nonprofit organization vs thinking of it as a personal request, takes the fear out of asking. If you are passionate about a cause and truly believe in what you are asking for then any fear of failure is minimized in my experience. It is simply sharing the story and inviting others to get involved. One of the many lessons I’ve learned through my work is what it means to truly collaborate. Many people say they partner or work together, but I have found great success in building collaborative relationships. For me the difference is instead of just working together or thinking about what others can bring to a project, meaningful collaboration goes deeper and looks at individuals’ motivations, talents, and goals. When we are able to take time and engage with others in a truly collaborative manner, the magic of diverse opinions, new ideas and real success is inevitable.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My answer would vary seasonally, but since it’s winter right now I’m going with that… Mid week, early morning skiing is a must! Avoiding the weekend crowds and enjoying our uncrowded slopes is a bonus of living in a ski town. And if time/schedule permits, indulging in a Bloody Mary at the Four Points lodge is a delightful way to spend time with friends on the mountain.

Soaking at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs is always a special treat after a day on the slopes. Soaking in the healing waters, outside under the stars is a magical experience.

Refueling at one of the local restaurants would also be a part of the week. Some local favorites include The Laundry for small plates and amazing cocktails, Besame for tapas, Creekside Cafe for breakfast or lunch featuring local food ingredients, Back Door Burger when you’re truly hungry for one of their specialty burgers.

While most locals are “early to bed, early to rise”, we do sometimes leave our homes at night! Live music at Old Town Pub or The Press are favorites, as are any of the local breweries (Mountain Tap, Storm Peak or the newer Yampa Valley Brewery) Skinning and skiing in the backcountry is another must, options abound whether you stay close to town and skin/fat bike/snowshoe on the groomed trails up Emerald Mountain, or head up to Rabbit Ear Pass to get out into the woods.

And when we get tired of skiing, skinning, biking, snowshoeing, or hiking we can head downtown Steamboat Springs and shop at the local stores. Two must stops are Lyons Drug store (don’t be fooled by the name and don’t miss the old school soda fountain/counter) and FM Light & Sons. And if it’s the First Friday of the month, visiting the many art galleries and seeing friends downtown is always worth it.  Lots to do in this vibrant community, we are so fortunate!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would dedicate this Shoutout to the Community Agriculture Alliance Board and volunteers. And specifically call out Marsha Daughenbaugh who took a risk and hired me back in 2010. As a newcomer to the community. Marsha and the CAA Board not only made me feel welcome professionally but personally invited me into the community as a friend. Part of my personal goal is to continue that legacy and pay it forward.

Website: www.communityagalliance.org

Instagram: agalliance

Facebook: communityagriculturealliance