Irish Cheer for a Great Cause

Colorado Mountain College Glenwood’s Children’s Mini College hosted its second annual Gold & Green community event on Friday, March 14, from 5-7 p.m. at the CMC Glenwood Center. This free Irish-themed happy hour brought pre-St. Patrick’s Day cheer while raising essential funds for the nonprofit preschool program.

The event featured Irish music, donated beer and wine, and delicious Irish appetizers, some of which were baked by the Mini College’s young students. A highlight of the evening was the Wall of Giving, created by students’ families and decorated by the children. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on a variety of donated items, including local artwork, event tickets, ski passes, and weekend getaways, with all proceeds directly supporting Mini College programming.

Abby Hollenbaugh, director of the Children’s Mini College, emphasized the importance of the fundraiser in sustaining the program, which operates independently as an auxiliary of CMC. Since its founding in 1978, the Mini College has provided early childhood education for children aged 3 to 5, serving both CMC faculty and students as well as the broader Glenwood Springs community.

Looking ahead, the Mini College plans to expand its offerings later this fall, adding a second classroom and new year-round, full-time options for parents. The expansion will accommodate potty-trained 2-and-a-half-year-olds and younger 3-year-olds, increasing capacity from 18 to 28 children per day. The program continues to focus on art, music, cooking, science, and imaginative play, fostering a love of learning in a nurturing environment.