Today at the Pepsi Center, Kroenke Sports Enterprises along with the Colorado Avalanche are partnering with the Food Bank of the Rockies to distribute 35,000 pounds of Tyson chicken and 12,000 Teddy Bears to 40 charities in our community such as the Gathering Place, the Denver Rescue Mission, the Curtis Park Community Center, Colorado Aids Project, and the Association of Senior Citizens. The items these organizations are receiving will make a big difference in the lives of many needy people in the Denver area.
In the world of community giving, caring, and sharing, Deb Dowling is a paragon of dedication and devotion. As one admiring colleague commented: “Deb has an A+ character and is one of the most sincere, genuine people in this city.”
Deb who previously worked for Ascent Sports as their Special Events Director for the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche from 1993 to 1996, returned to take the position of VP of Community Relations in 2002.
On a personal level, Deb has taken on many volunteer leadership roles with non-profits such as the Special Olympics Colorado, the ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) Association, the Junior League of Denver, Central City Opera, and Deb is active with the First Plymouth Congregational Church.
Deb diligently works hard in her role as head of Community Relations for the Kroenke organization and loves the energy and excitement of working with so many spectacular personalities at the Pepsi Center.
When asked about her philosophy on Community Relations, Deb responded: “Community Relations is not an option - it's a responsibility.”
Deb is well aware of the impact she can make on the community, and she has a profound sense of responsibility to always be at her best. She never strays from her commitments to the community. Her humility is endearing, and she deserves the respect she has earned.
From reading your impressive bio, it looks like you have had an amazing career so far. You worked for the Pepsi Center as their Special Events Director from 1993 to 1996, what brought you back in 2002? I think it was timing and fate.
What is your greatest strength? An ability to be flexible, hopefully keep a sense of humor and go with the flow which is a necessity when doing events - nothing ever looks exactly like the plan on paper.
What is your biggest weakness? Overscheduling - should probably cut back what I schedule by about 50 percent.
What one word would people use to describe you? I have no idea.
What one word would you use to describe yourself? Loyal.
What is the one thing you can’t live without? I've learned you can live without most "things" - the important part of life is family and friends both present and past and the strength they provide.
What’s the key to a successful marriage? Laughter - the ability to disagree and still be friends - a sense of knowing you have unconditional love.
What is your idea of a romantic get a way? A day away from the phone and Blackberry which includes good food and conversation.
Can you share a favorite childhood memory with us? There are many - but one is recurring - I love baseball and the Cubs and my birthday each year somehow included a Cubs vs. Sox game (preseason before interleague play) and a day in Chicago.
What is the best book you have ever read, and why? Manchild in the Promised Land, it made me realize people and struggles are not so different no matter who you are or what your situation may be. It truly opened my eyes to a bigger world.
What’s your favorite magazine, and why do you like it? There's many magazines at home that I don't find time to read - I try to skip through Sports Illustrated and Living on the day they arrive.
What three things are always in your refrigerator? My husband’s amazing Gorgonzola butter, a large jar of iced tea and some type of fruit.
What charitable event do you look forward to attending each year? Probably a little bizarre but my favorite event to attend (and organize) is Chopper's Dinner. Chopper Travaglini was such a dear friend and this event meant so much to him - it truly is unique in that athletes from five professional teams attend and support.
What non-profit organizations are you working with at this time? I'm very fortunate to be able to work with numerous groups all the time.
What can we do to get more people involved in charitable giving? I'd use the word involvement rather than giving - find your passion rather it be children, animals, literacy -there are opportunities everywhere rather it's via an official 501c3 or just helping a neighbor or friend.
What will we find you doing during your time off? Roland would probably tell you that you'd find me sleeping.
What advice would you give a young person wanting to become as successful as you? Listen - enjoy the "ride" called life - appreciate every day.
If you were to write an autobiography of your life, what would you call it? Can I call you back?
What inspires and motivates you? Life and the people, opportunities and challenges it brings every day.
What’s in the future for Deb Dowling? If we knew that…
How would you like to be remembered? With a smile.
