Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Hello! We are James, Erin and Hazel Van Horne. James is from Highlands Ranch, Colorado and a CSU alumni! (GO RAMS!) James graduated with is degree in mechanical engineering and since has been working as an environmental consultant specializing in air quality. Erin is from Traverse City, Michigan and is a Grand Valley State University alumni. Erin has her BSN and currently works for the Nurse-Family Partnership program at the Larimer County Health Department. As a nurse Erin does home visitation for first-time, low-income mothers and their families focusing on health, safety and growth & development. Erin moved to Fort Collins in 2010. James and Erin meet in March of 2011 and married in August of 2013. Their little goose, Hazel, was born in April of 2015.

What are you passionate about?

Erin is very passionate about prevention medicine - quality nutrition, exercise, breastfeeding, good sleep, stress reduction, etc. That is what drew her to public health and the Nurse-Family Partnership program. If we can help kids get a great start in life, then it causes a ripple effect, not only in that child's life, but in their family, their community, and the future.

James is very passionate about the environmental impact of our community, specifically related to clean water, air and our changing climate.

What are your hobbies?

Our hobbies include; traveling, mountain biking, hiking, camping, climbing, yoga, great food, hosting parties, brewing beer and seeing great live music.

What is your hope/dream for Larimer County?

Our dream for Larimer County is twofold: 1)That all kids in our community, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity or circumstance be afforded the opportunity to thrive and succeed, to receive quality nutrition and education and to be surrounded by a positive and loving community; and 2)That the beauty of our environment be protected and preserved for these kids and for generations to follow.

How long have you been a United Way donor?

Three years, at least.

Why do you choose to support your community through United Way?

We choose to support United Way because they are an incredible organization. The best way we can express this point is like this: if your car is broken you take it to a car mechanic; if your foot is broken you go to an orthopedic physician; and, if you want to support your community with the most impact possible you give to United Way. It is the way to support many different aspects of giving through one single organization. They are the experts!

Anything else you'd like to add?

"The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones." - Confucius

Thanks to Jamesand Erin and thousands of donors like them, we arehelping local children and families create a future filled with promise and opportunity.