Climb Credit Union proudly continued its long-standing support of the Porter-Billups Leadership Academy (PBLA) by contributing $50,000 at the organization’s 2025 Annual Charity Golf Tournament.
As part of the $50,000 donation, an additional $50,000 was raised through Climb matching other donor contributions, doubling the total financial impact to $100,000. Climb’s involvement with PBLA reflects more than just a financial commitment — it represents a deep investment in youth development. This summer, Climb provided 45 laptops, taught financial literacy classes to students, and devoted more than 100+ hours of hands-on volunteer work during the three-week program. These resources were vital in helping students fully participate in the program and ensured graduating seniors had access to the tools they needed for future success. In total, more than 25 Climb employees volunteered in roles ranging from classroom support and breakfast distribution to welcoming buses and joining students for enrichment activities, all while building meaningful personal connections.
PBLA was established in 1996 by Regis University Men’s Basketball Coach Lonnie Porter and his daughter, Staci Porter-Bentley, to offer academic and leadership opportunities to students from underserved communities. In 2006, NBA star Chauncey Billups joined the effort and, together with Porter, helped the program grow into what it is today. Their shared experiences growing up in Denver’s inner-city neighborhoods inspired their mission to uplift the next generation through education and mentorship. Currently, PBLA serves more than 225 students in grades 3 through 12 and boasts an impressive 99% high school graduation rate, with 87% of alumni continuing to college.
“The Porter-Billups Leadership Academy is a powerful force for good,” said Carrie Langgard, President/CEO of Climb Credit Union and a member of the PBLA Associate Board. “Coach Porter and Chauncey Billups have built a program that not only educates but inspires. We are honored to support their mission and proud to stand behind the students who are working hard to create brighter futures.”
Beyond PBLA, Climb Credit Union continues to invest in education and community impact through other meaningful partnerships. In collaboration with Arrupe Jesuit High School, Climb offers internship opportunities to students via the school’s Corporate Work-Study Program. In total, Climb Credit Union and the Climb Community Foundation contribute more than $300,000 annually in donations, sponsorships, and scholarships, alongside an active culture of employee volunteerism focused on financial empowerment and youth opportunity.