Erin Ivie
Executive Director: Speak Up, Reach Out
Q: How do you describe or introduce yourself?
A: Most of the time, as the Executive Director of Speak Up, Reach Out; it’s become a big part of my identity. I’m really proud to have been born and raised in Vail. I’m a true local and I embrace all things about the outdoors. I’ll try anything outside; I love to get out and enjoy it.
Q: In addition to your work as the Executive Director, what do you like to do in your spare time?
A: I love to be outdoors, especially on or near the water. That’s my happy place. My husband and I love to go to local rivers or visit Lake Powell with our German Shepherd.
Q: What is a favorite outdoor adventure that you have enjoyed?
A: As for my favorite outdoor adventure, I would have to say that it would be any one of the longer UTV Side-by-Side trips that I have done with my husband. We love going out into the middle of nowhere, usually on top of the world, and taking in the adventure. We recently did a trip from Grand Junction to Gateway, all on the back dirt roads. In some ways these trips are my meditation. Taking the time to be present and take in all the scenery, listen to good music, and spend time with good people.
Q: When did you begin working with Speak Up, Reach Out?
A: I started in 2012 when I introduced the idea of a memorial walk to the Board of Directors. I joined the Board soon after that, and in 2014 I took over as a part-time Executive Director, so I’m celebrating 10 years.
Q: Which projects are you most passionate about with Speak Up, Reach Out?
A: I am very proud of the fact that we provide so much training to the community. We have trained over 2,500 adults & 3,000 students in suicide awareness and prevention.
Q: How long have you been part of the Vail Valley?
A: I was born in Vail, grew up in Eagle County, and then I went to college at Colorado State University before moving back to the Vail Valley.
Q: How could someone from the community get involved with Speak Up Reach Out?
A: First and foremost, get engaged by following our social media accounts and subscribing to our newsletter with lots of information on all the entertainment education opportunities we bring to the community.
Second, if you’re interested in formal volunteering, we have a process to make sure people are prepared. We require some volunteer training, to help deliver school programming or support our events, and there are lots of ways to get people involved. We continue to seek board members as well.
Q: What changes have you seen over that period to Eagle County?
A: Tremendous growth and it’s changed dramatically. Some great things have come through that growth, but some people are facing housing insecurity with a growing wealth disparity.
I’m a huge fan of small businesses and our community does that very well, with lots of wonderful mom & pop stores. I’m so glad that has stayed strong along with the small-town feeling.
Q: If I were visiting the Vail Valley area for a summer Weekend, what are some can’t miss activities?
A: I’m a big believer that people come for winter and stay for the summer. Summer in the Eagle Valley is magical. Obviously get outdoors. I love to enjoy the wildflowers and the mountain landscape. The flowers in Beaver Creek and Vail Villages are incredible; it’s a simple joy to indulge in. If I had to pick one restaurant, Bart & Yetis is old school Vail hospitality.