Meet Ashley Upchurch

CFGV’s Newest Team Member

This winter we had a job opening at CFGV, and we were very fortunate to hire someone we know well with whom we have worked for years already. Ashley Upchurch has been a wonderful leader in the community over the last decade and we’re very excited to have her join the CFGV team in a full-time capacity as our new Director of Philanthropy.

Like all new staff members, we asked her a few questions so you can get to know her a little bit better.

What do you love most about the Gunnison Valley?

The community. When Dan and I moved here in 2014, we planned to stay for five years and then explore another part of the country. The pandemic changed those plans, and by the end of 2020—after reflecting on our time here and the challenges of that first year—we realized we’d never find a place like the Gunnison Valley.

This community rallies, supports, uplifts, and shows up for one another in ways we’ve never experienced anywhere else. It’s one that works hard, plays hard, and cares deeply. And of course, the natural beauty and endless adventures certainly help! (We made it official and bought a home just this year.)

What other nonprofits have you worked or volunteered with? In what roles?

Most recently, I served as Development Director at the CB Land Trust and was Executive Director at the CB/Mt CB Chamber of Commerce prior to that. I’ve also enjoyed volunteering for Nordic Center events and have served as both a board member and board president for the CB Arts Festival and CB Friends of the Library. I’m also coming up on my 10-year anniversary as a Rotarian with the CB Rotary Club, where I’ve served two years as president and recently stepped into the role of Duck Chair for the Great Rubber Duckie Race.

What’s the best part of working at CFGV (so far)?

Learning more about the wide range of nonprofits that keep the Gunnison Valley thriving every day. Even in a short time, I’ve had the opportunity to deepen my understanding of organizations I’ve known about for years. For example, I recently sat in on an impromptu meeting with a fund holder who asked about Project Hope, an organization I was familiar with but hadn’t explored in depth. Hearing Lauren share insight into their work and impact reinforced how meaningful it is to be part of CFGV, where we can connect people and resources to organizations doing the important work. I’m excited to continue learning and supporting our nonprofit community.

Tell us a little bit about your life outside of work.

I spend most evenings and weekends with my husband, Dan; our cattle dog, Sego; and our cat, Cricket. If I’m not at home, you’ll likely find me hiking, riding my friend’s mustang (Cowboy), or reading by the river. In 2019, I completed all of the mountain bike–friendly trails in the valley and am now working my way through the Wilderness trails. Dan and I thru-hiked the Colorado Trail in 2020, and more recently I’ve taken on a goal of reading 40–50 books a year (so far, so good!). I’m quite goal-oriented by nature and would almost always rather be sleeping in the woods on any given night.

What’s your favorite Gunnison Valley event?

Here for Good, and not just because I now work at CFGV! I remember leaving my first Here for Good several years ago and agreeing with Jake, my then–executive director at the Land Trust, that we’d carve out time every summer to attend no matter how busy we were. There’s no better way to connect with and celebrate the people and organizations doing the hard and good work behind the scenes. It’s an inspiring reminder of just how strong and engaged this community is. This year’s Here for Good is on August 12, and everyone is welcome!