Meet the Changemakers

At Chinook Fund, we listen to and follow the leadership of grassroots social justice organizers in our community that play an essential role in democratizing philanthropy. Meet the Changemakers connects community organizers building power across Colorado and beyond with new supporters like YOU to champion their work! We will have a panel of grantees sharing their work in cultural arts and community organizing. Join us in celebrating them!

Our next Meet the Changemakers event is April 14, 2026 from 6-7:30pm MDT via Zoom.

RSVP here for Meet the Changemakers

Meet our panelists

  • Pamela Jiner, Founder and Executive Director, Montbello Walks
  • Omary Zakwani (he/him), Executive Director, Umoja of Africa Foundation
  • Ariel Ruempolhamer (she/her), Founder and Executive Director, The Black Girl Advocate
  • Alex Bernat (they/she), Emcee, Giving Project alum

About our Featured Grantees

Montbello Walks, community health programming

The mission of Montbello Walks is to build a walkable community through advocacy while improving the physical and emotional health of residents through walking engagement groups, nutrition programming, and other outdoor activities. A community-based health initiative, Montbello Walks supports community engagement, offers events and activities to improve individual health, addresses food insecurity, and supports elders. 

Group of African people sit together in a community meeting room

Umoja of Africa Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to uniting and empowering African immigrant and refugee communities. They build partnerships that help African families navigate systems, access resources, and thrive in their communities. Their work strengthens community connections, promotes cultural inclusion, and expands access to opportunities through programs focused on youth development, housing stability, and community support.

Group of 9 Black women gathered for professional headshot style photo

The Black Girl Advocate nurtures a radiant sisterhood where Black girls rise—rooted in education, lifted by culture, and driven by the power of their own voices. They create spaces for Black girls and women in education to lead unapologetically as scholars, creatives, athletes, and changemakers.

About our Emcee

Alex Bernat

Alex Bernat (they/she) is a white and trans activist passionate about economic healing and systems transformation. Alex is an alum of Chinook Fund’s Spring 2025 Giving Project and joins Meet the Changemakers as the emcee for the evening.

Event Accessibility

Chinook Fund is committed to creating inclusive and accessible public programming. You can learn more and make specific accessibility requests for this event on our Accessibility Request Form page.

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