Supporting the livelihood of veterans
The Ridge at Castle Pines North played host to the Let Freedom Swing golf tournament hosted by Colorado Veterans Project on September 18.
In honor of Veterans Day this month, we recognize the Colorado Veterans Project (CVP).
Founded in 2014, CVP is a nonprofit which strives to build a community and network of support for Colorado veterans’ transition from active duty into civilian employment. CVP recognizes that this transition can be one of the biggest challenges a veteran will face.
“Without proper guidance, veterans can struggle to find their footing, which limits their opportunity to be active, positive members of our local communities and business landscape,” offered Deb Dufour, CVP executive director and CVP president Brandy Maranian. “This gap affects far more than job placement. A veteran’s ability to secure meaningful work directly impacts income potential, financial stability and overall quality of life.”
Over the years, CVP has partnered with Colorado’s vast network of veteran nonprofits. “We’ve expanded and refined our mission to focus on advancing the economic stability and livelihood of veterans by creating and supporting pathways to opportunity,” Deb shared.
Grants are offered to community partners such as Salute Colorado, Papa Tango Staffing Solutions and PreVeteran. Support in 2025 has included civilian transitioning training scholarships for active-duty veterans; pilot training and FAA certifications for veterans pursuing careers in aviation; and entrepreneurship training for veterans planning to start or grow a business.
For fundraising, CVP usually hosts four events each year, including a Memorial Day Run and March, an Annual Freedom Festival, the Let Freedom Swing Golf Tournament and the Denver Veterans Day Run, Festival and Parade. Approximately $125,000 has been raised, to date.
The last fundraiser of the year is Denver Veterans Day Run, Festival and Parade on Saturday, November 8, at Denver’s City Park. There is still time to register, and same day registrations are welcome. (See page 14 for specific event details.)
Looking ahead to next year, The Let Freedom Swing Golf Tournament is tentatively planned for September 17 at The Ridge at Castle Pines North. The Veterans Day Parade, Run and Festival will be held on November 7, 2026.
Visit coloradoveteransproject.org to learn more about this organization, confirm 2026 event dates, or register or volunteer for events throughout the year.
Volunteers from Colorado Veterans Project (CPV) host the nonprofit’s booth during fundraising events throughout the year. CVP supports Colorado veterans with economic stability programs.
By Elean Gersack; courtesy photos
