The Rico Center was established with the passage of a Dolores County mill levy increase in 2003. Rico was asked to put a portion of the generated revenues to use in our area of the county, so the Town Manager gathered several residents and community leaders who developed The Rico Center’s mission:

To award grants to local non-profits, governmental entities and individuals involved in community development and/or community-based efforts.

To accomplish this, The Rico Center concentrates its efforts in three areas: sustainability, community resource development and support for community organizations.

Rico Center grants have helped to fund many of Rico’s services and activities including: operations of Rico’s pre-school, elementary school, fire department, and  library. Assisting with the acquisition and rehabilitation of historic structures including the Engel House, the Rico Museum, head frames, and water tank. Supporting town services like maintaining winter cross country ski trails, the ice skating rink, and 4th of July events.

The Rico Center awards grants once a year. The application deadline is October 31.