A Tribute to Steve Graham: A Legacy of Leadership, Mentorship, and Social Justice

All new and/or young leaders should benefit from the experience of receiving mentorship. I was blessed to work with Steve Graham, an extraordinary leader and mentor in Colorado's nonprofit sector.

About 25 years ago I had the great fortune of obtaining an internship with the Community Resource Center (CRC) supporting what would become a major affordable housing campaign in the Denver area. A few months later, after graduating from the University of Colorado, I was hired by CRC as an Americorp Vista Volunteer and began my nonprofit career advancing a wide range of social issues throughout Colorado. Though I didn’t know it right away, I found myself in fertile ground for leadership development working with and for some extraordinary people. Among them was Steve Graham, CRC’s former Executive Director and longtime advocate for social justice, organizational development, and mentor to many up-and-coming leaders in our sector. Steve changed my life in a variety of ways, some intentionally and others by circumstance. Eighteen years ago today, Steve passed away unexpectedly at the young age of 61. His legacy and commitment to leadership development continues to inspire those of us who dedicate themselves to strengthening communities as leaders, philanthropists, and advocates in our sector.

Steve was much more than an executive director; he was a visionary who understood that leadership is not just about directing but about empowering others to lead. His impact extended far beyond the walls of CRC, touching countless lives, especially those in communities where resources and opportunities were often limited. Steve championed the belief that everyone has a voice and must have access to the tools and support needed to thrive.

One of the hallmarks of Steve’s legacy was his unwavering commitment to mentorship. He saw potential in others, often before they saw it in themselves, and worked tirelessly to nurture that potential. For Steve, mentorship wasn’t a checkbox or a professional obligation; it was a deeply personal mission. He invested time, energy, and genuine care into developing young professionals, equipping them with the skills and confidence to become the next generation of nonprofit leaders.

Many of those Steve mentored have gone on to hold prominent leadership positions in the sector, a testament to his belief in the power of coaching, guidance, and friendship. His mentorship extended beyond technical knowledge—he taught by example, demonstrating the values of integrity, empathy, and perseverance. He showed how important it is to listen, to adapt, and to lead with both head and heart.

As we reflect on Steve’s life and legacy, we are reminded of the vital role that mentorship plays in shaping a successful future for those dedicated to improving communities. If you are lucky, you have experienced mentorship in your career. Having someone dedicated to your development, to your abilities, to your success and future isn’t just an extraordinary gift, it’s a necessity for all young people who aspire to move through their career utilizing their natural and acquired skills with intention. Steve’s ability to inspire and guide others left an indelible mark on the sector and on the individuals fortunate enough to work with him. His belief in people and his dedication to their growth created ripples that continue to benefit communities across Colorado and beyond.

Eighteen years later, we honor Steve Graham not only for his accomplishments but for the values he embodied: kindness, equity, and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. His legacy is alive in the leaders he mentored, the communities he advocated for, and the countless lives he touched. Thank you, Steve, for showing us that leadership is about lifting others up, and for leaving behind a brighter, stronger nonprofit sector. I, and many others, miss you greatly and I am grateful for the impact you continue to have on my life and our sector’s.