2026 Winners

1. Scott Risner – Green Mountain Ace Hardware

Scott Risner, Director of Operations for Green Mountain Ace Hardware and its sister stores, exemplifies what it means to plant seeds of change in our community. Through a simple yet powerful customer “round-up” initiative, Scott has directed thousands of dollars to support Green Mountain High School—benefiting student programs, staff initiatives, and school-wide events.

By intentionally partnering with school leadership to meet the most urgent needs, Scott ensures those seeds take root where they matter most. His generosity and leadership continue to grow a culture of giving, strengthening both our schools and our community.

2. Pastor Casey Withers & Community Bible Church Denver

Pastor Casey Withers and the team at Community Bible Church Denver have been planting seeds of hope across Jefferson County through their consistent and compassionate service. Since January 2025, Pastor Casey has met weekly with local leaders to listen, pray, and respond to the needs of families and educators.

From hosting a free summer soccer camp, to supporting Jeffco Feeds Jeffco, to providing meals and encouragement for educators serving high-risk students—CBC’s impact continues to grow. Their new Alameda campus stands as a lasting root of hope, reflecting their deep commitment to uplifting the Lakewood community.

3. The Bridge Church at Bear Creek – Pastor James Hoxworth

The Bridge Church at Bear Creek, led by Pastor James Hoxworth, has cultivated deep roots of hope within the Bear Creek community. Through years of partnership, they have consistently shown up for students, staff, and families in meaningful ways.

From the “Underground” lounge to the beloved Front Porch Coffee Shop, and their ongoing support of school leadership and staff—The Bridge Church has created spaces where connection, care, and belonging can flourish. Their daily commitment continues to plant seeds that strengthen the entire community.

4. Brady Porterfield-Finn – City of Arvada

Brady Porterfield-Finn, with the City of Arvada, understands that strong communities grow through connection. By building relationships and creating meaningful partnerships with Arvada West High School and beyond, Brady has planted seeds of collaboration that continue to take root across the community.

His positive energy, willingness to listen, and commitment to bringing people together have strengthened connections throughout Arvada—helping cultivate a more unified and thriving community for all.

5. Bob Dyer – Arvada Community Leader

Bob Dyer, an Arvada West High School alumnus, is a true pillar of the community whose impact reflects deep roots of hope. Through his involvement with the Arvada Vitality Alliance, Kiwanis Club, and the Arvada Center for the Arts, Bob has dedicated his time and resources to strengthening the community he loves.

His enduring relationship with Arvada West High School demonstrates his belief that when we invest in our schools, we invest in our future. Bob’s lifelong commitment continues to nurture a community where everyone can flourish.

6. Jennifer Alford – North Arvada Community Garden

Jennifer Alford truly embodies this year’s theme, Seeds of Change, Roots of Hope. As a leader of the North Arvada Community Garden, she has created a space where growth, healing, and connection come together.

Through her work, students and community members have access to fresh food, opportunities to reconnect with nature, and innovative programs like sensory gardens and emotional wellness sessions. Jennifer’s leadership continues to cultivate both physical and emotional nourishment—planting seeds that will benefit the community for years to come.

7. Sam Ryan – North Arvada Middle School

Sam Ryan, Assistant Principal at North Arvada Middle School, has planted powerful seeds of change through his leadership in bringing the Ron Clark Academy House System to life.

What began as a structural initiative has grown into a thriving culture of belonging, pride, and connection. Through House meetings, competitions, and community-building efforts—including visits with families—Sam has helped create meaningful relationships across the school.

His work has taken root in lasting ways, strengthening the school community and ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Sam’s leadership is a true reflection of how seeds of change can grow into strong roots of hope.

8. Evergreen Student Body President Tyler Guyton- Tyler couldn’t make it here today so we have his mother Allison Guyton, accepting the award on his behalf

"To whom much is given, much is expected." For Tyler Guyton, this is more than a motto—it is a track record of over 1,700 hours of dedicated community service.

Tyler’s leadership journey began in Scouting, where he became the youngest Eagle Scout in his troop’s 55-year history. Whether it was patrolling beaches at 2:00 a.m. in Costa Rica to protect sea turtles or leading the National Youth Leadership Training program, Tyler has consistently stepped up when the work was hardest.

At Evergreen High School, Tyler is a Boettcher Scholarship Finalist and a 9-time Varsity Letter recipient. As Student Body President, he became a pillar of strength following a school shooting, launching "Senior Sundays" to foster unity and healing among his peers. His leadership extends into the halls of government, where he served as a Legislative Intern for State Senator Lisa Cutter and testified on behalf of Colorado House Bill 26-1255.

Tyler’s commitment to school safety and youth mental health earned him two "Our Learners: Our Future" district awards and a seat at the 2026 State of the Union address as a guest of Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen. Today, we celebrate Tyler not just for his academic and athletic excellence, but for his tireless heart for Jefferson County.