Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

---

Organization Name: Annunciation Heights
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 7400 State Highway 7
City: Estes Park
State: CO
Postal Code: 80517
Main Phone: 970-586-5689
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.annunciationheights.org
Employer ID Number: 82-3745326
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

---

Today’s Date: March 25, 2026
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: JPII Outdoor Labs
Project Description:

Annunciation Heights respectfully requests support from the Hermanowski Foundation to provide essential supplies and equipment for our outdoor education program, which serves students across Colorado through immersive, nature-based learning experiences that promote both academic growth and student well-being.

Since 2018, Annunciation Heights has partnered with schools to deliver hands-on environmental and leadership education in the Rocky Mountains. Our program reinforces classroom learning in the physical, life, and earth sciences through experiential activities such as field studies, wildlife observation, and team-building initiatives. These experiences foster curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence while supporting students’ physical and emotional health.

To deliver these programs safely and effectively, we rely on specialized outdoor education equipment and consumable supplies, including field science tools, safety gear, instructional materials, and seasonal equipment suited to the inclement weather we frequently experience at nearly 9000’ of elevation. Many of these items experience heavy wear due to frequent use by visiting school groups and must be replaced or replenished regularly. Without reliable equipment, our ability to provide safe, engaging, and high-quality educational experiences is significantly limited.

Each year, thousands of students—many from urban and underserved communities—benefit from their time at Annunciation Heights. Feedback has reinforced the positive impact of this program, with 75% of students saying they can explore science in a new way. Additionally, 94% say they have grown closer to their classmates and over two-thirds grew as a leader among peers. Nearly every single adult (99%) said the program met their science and leadership goals.

Access to nature-based education helps improve focus, reduce stress, and build interpersonal skills that carry back into the classroom and everyday life. We aim to
continue equipping young people with the knowledge, confidence, and respect for the natural world that are essential to their long-term development and good health.

Total Project Budget: $640,776

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Program fees from each school; 2 pending grants from private foundations for scholarships totaling $35,000; 2 dedicated fundraising events per year

Project Duration: Aug 24, 2026 to May 7, 2027
Geographical Area Served: Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming
Age Group To Be Served: students age 10-18

Contact Information

---

Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Hank
Contact Last Name: Buckingham
Contact Title: Camp Administrator
Contact Phone: 970-586-5689
Contact Email: hank.buckingham@annunciationheights.org