Change and Growth

The Rooftop Rodeo is beginning its 86^th year as a major attraction in Estes Park.  It began as part of the Town’s Fourth of July celebration and the newspapers of the day indicate it was indeed a major community celebration. In the 1940’s a group of gentlemen formed the first Rooftop Rodeo Committee in order to provide structure and do the planning necessary to produce a successful rodeo.  It appears the rodeo was always sponsored or supported by the Town but the exact date and circumstances of when and how the Committee became a “Town Appointed” committee are not known.  This, of course, is a matter of historical interest but has little to do with the Rooftop Rodeo today.  The rodeo h began as an event where wagons and Stanley Steamers were driven in a circle to form an arena to today where the award winning Rooftop Rodeo which is known internationally as a premier rodeo significant enough to bring visitors from all over the United States and indeed the world.
 

In February, the Rooftop Rodeo Committee transitioned from a Town appointed committee to Estes Park Western Heritage, Inc. (EPWH) as a friends organization to support the rodeo. The purpose of EPWH is to promote the western culture and preserve the western heritage of the Estes Valley by producing and supporting activities for the education and enjoyment of its residents and visitors. 

EPWH has been built from the ground up based on extensive research and conversations with experts and professionals, resulting in an organization based on best practices for both a non-profit corporation and a world class rodeo committee. Its structure creates a series of checks and balances that is bolstered by its transparency. It is recognized by the State of Colorado as a non-profit corporation and will soon be a registered 501(c) (3) status with the IRS. Its Board of Directors has retained legal and accounting professionals to guide the organization’s development and is also working with the University of Northern Colorado’s Monfort College of Business and the Colorado Small Business Development Center in the creation of business and marketing plans.

This is an exciting time for the dedicated folks who have worked for many years to make the Rooftop the very best.