Have You Met?

Veio’s hip approach to supporting non-profit organizations stems from something quite simple: “It’s one way to contribute.” That is: contribute to his community (he lives within a mile of where he was born), his fellow man, the world. Although he and his partners understand the importance of writing a check, it is taken one step further by Veio’s direct involvement in the causes that have captured his attention. The list of non-profit organizations which he has supported is long and varied, demonstrating that Veio reaches out where he sees need, not just where his interests lie. Veio reaches out in varied ways, including using his legal expertise, serving on boards and rolling up his sleeves.

 

Most recently Veio worked on the campaign committee for The Denver Hospice. As he shares what will happen at the new Lowry location, it is clear that he is devoted to the cause. “There will be 25 beds, but we’ll serve hundreds of patients and their families.” He goes on to declare the incredible work of The Denver Hospice and his enthusiasm becomes contagious.

 

Veio understands business, working in bonds, he points out that “It’s important for non-profits to succeed just as businesses do.” He continues that “Often people involved in non-profits become so focused on the mission that the business of the organization can become neglected.” He understands the importance of others outside the organization itself becoming strongly involved and bringing their talents and experience to the table.

 

Veio credits his parents for his interest in volunteering and giving to non-profits. “I was brought up with parents who instilled the belief that you give back. They were active in church, and gave time and energy to others, the church and to mission work.” Veio has strong ties to Denver and Colorado that stem from a family in which one set of grandparents are Colorado natives.

 

Another recent cause that Veio worked for diligently is the Denver Art Museum’s new Clifford Still building. Veio shrugs, concluding that his love of art was most likely initiated when “Growing up as a little boy I can remember my folks would drag my sister and me to the new DAM (the Hamilton Building) nearly every weekend. I learned to love art.”

 

Naturally, being a Colorado native, the mountains call Veio west on weekends where he formerly skied, but now spends more peaceful hours snowshoeing or hiking, so serving on the board of the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation is a natural fit. “We have an absolute treasure in our parks. Our goal is to raise awareness and support political and funding support for Mountain Parks. We’ve developed a master plan to update and look ahead several years. We need to raise awareness of the parks value and needs with the citizens of Denver, as well as Jefferson, Douglas and western counties.” 

 

From Veio’s point of view, we live in a very generous and compassionate city. “Even in these tough times Denver is very generous and still funds our non-profits.” He believes it’s because we’re a city that cares. “It’s very important to be part of the fabric of the big tapestry. Government can’t do it all and for-profit can’t do it all; non-profit is very important to a community. There are huge needs that would be neglected without the attention and dedication of the non-profit world.” Veio speaks from experience, having been asked to serve on non-profit boards by both Republican and Democrat administrations.

 

Asked what he would say if he could reach every Colorado citizen Veio said, “Just be good to each other.” Like his dress, his office, his law practice, his philanthropic attitude, Veio cuts to the chase and makes it clear that simplicity is the way to accomplish great things.