Transforming ideas into meaningful action to strengthen Colorado’s youth and families.

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WHO WE ARE

Welcome to the
Donnell-Kay Foundation

Founded in 1965 by the Kay family, the Donnell-Kay Foundation (DK Foundation) is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit foundation based in downtown Denver. We are committed to prioritizing low-income and historically marginalized children and families in our work. Our focus is broad and includes efforts to increase the opportunities for children and youth to learn, thrive, and be healthy in their community. Our current work focuses on early childhood policies, healthy food access, and affordable housing, in addition to a variety of exploratory ideas and projects. We invite collaborative conversations and partnerships that drive impactful changes and foster enriched educational environments across Colorado.

Get to Know Us
FEATURED

We’re Hiring!

The Donnell-Kay Foundation is seeking an Early Childhood Fellow to help advance our work supporting Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers, with a particular focus on access to financial resources and public supports. This 12-month hybrid position is a great opportunity for someone eager to explore early childhood systems and policy.

Fellowship Posting

The foundation was created through a trust by the Kay family.

Private foundation focused on improving education in Colorado

Invested annually in people, projects, and programs.

Our Work

The Latest

Tony Lewis
No Silver Bullet: Why Colorado’s K–12 Debate Needs a New Deal
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No Silver Bullet: Why Colorado’s K–12 Debate Needs a New Deal
Maggie Kinneberg
Inspiration, Reflection and Dedication for Housing Affordability
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Inspiration, Reflection and Dedication for Housing Affordability
Miguel In Suk Lovato
Finally at the Table: Opening the Colorado Food Program to FFN Caregivers
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Finally at the Table: Opening the Colorado Food Program to FFN Caregivers
Miguel In Suk Lovato
Finalmente en la mesa: Apertura del Programa de Alimentos de Colorado a las cuidadoras FFN
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Finalmente en la mesa: Apertura del Programa de Alimentos de Colorado a las cuidadoras FFN
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The Foundation

Our Role

For nearly 30 years, we have been working to strengthen education in Colorado.

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Our Work

Our team’s diverse experiences, interests, connections, and expertise drive our initiatives.

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Events

DK Foundation has been convening stakeholders in education for nearly two decades.

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