
In our modern society, two things are true:
- Businesses can have a profoundly positive effect on society.
- Young people respond to moral examples.
Shoulder-to-Shoulder is weaving these truths together.
Our partnership with the socially conscious Pinnacle Mountain Homes, based in Frisco, Colorado, perfectly illustrates this concept.
Pinnacle Mountain Homes is far from your average construction company. It specializes in the construction, furnishing, and property management of luxury mountain homes, bringing the entire lifecycle of a property under one roof. From the first shovelful of earth on a vacant lot to the furnishing and renting or selling of a luxury property, Pinnacle handles it all. What makes Pinnacle truly special, however, is its philanthropic arm: Pinnacle Gives.
Pinnacle Gives was created to support the local community in meaningful ways, focusing on education and youth, arts and culture, the environment, immigration, and community health. This initiative is a clear example of how a business can thrive while also giving back—supporting the community that supports it. It’s a virtuous cycle: the healthier a community, the more prosperous its businesses. And when those businesses reinvest in the community, everyone benefits.
We formed Pinnacle Gives to be able to give back to our community through funding and volunteering. Supporting our community is an investment in the people and resources that sustain our business. Shoulder-to-Shoulder programs exemplify ethical leadership; a concept of serving alongside the community you find yourself in. Supporting youth fosters inclusion and reduces disparities within the community. Young people who feel valued are more likely to contribute positively to the community and become role models for others.” -Shannon Renner, Pinnacle Gives leadership team
Nestled in the Colorado mountains, Pinnacle stands as a clear model of ethical leadership, showing what’s possible when profit and purpose come together.
How does this connect to Shoulder-to-Shoulder?
At Shoulder-to-Shoulder, we seek out models of ethical leadership to inspire the next generation. This vision drives our field studies in ethical leadership, where students immerse themselves in the work of our nonprofit partners. By embedding themselves within these organizations, students not only learn about their mission but also actively contribute, working shoulder-to-shoulder with community members and leaders.
This same approach extends to our partnerships with businesses. We identify companies that exemplify ethical leadership and connect them with students in their communities, bridging the gap between ideals and action.
Enter the power of moral example. Enter Pinnacle Mountain Homes.
By introducing students to values-driven leaders like Pinnacle,invite them to witness ethical leadership in action. It’s one thing to hear about doing good; it’s entirely different to experience its impact firsthand and see how it transforms communities and lives.
Over the past two years, Pinnacle Gives has provided scholarships for students in their community to attend our field studies in ethical leadership in Peru, Panama, Puerto Rico, New Orleans, and San Diego.
Josie, a Summit High School student, received a scholarship from Pinnacle Gives and reflects positively on her Shoulder-to-Shoulder experience in Peru.
My time in the Amazon rainforest in Peru, impacted me as a person in ways that can only be understood by means of experiencing the Amazon. The experience widened my worldview, helped me better understand the human condition and what it means to live in such a wonderfully diverse world. Without Pinnacle Gives, meeting the children in the Amazonian communities would have never been possible. Pinnacle Give’s donation made me more empathetic, thoughtful, and globally minded. I am forever grateful for the opportunity they provided me.”— Josie, Summit High School, Peru ‘24.
The Impact of Investing in Young People
These scholarships aren’t just about financial support, they are about fostering a connection. The students understand that a local business believes in them—investing in their growth as future leaders. This partnership embodies the spirit of moral example, showing young people that ethical leadership isn’t just an ideal—it’s something they can achieve, too.
Together, with partners like Pinnacle, we’re building a future where businesses and young leaders work hand in hand to create a positive, lasting impact on the world around them.
How can businesses get involved?
Shoulder-to-Shoulder’s organizational model acts as a nucleus connecting multiple sectors—education, business, nonprofit, and philanthropy—creating a galaxy of opportunities for businesses to get involved.
Companies interested in forming shared value partnerships and leveraging Shoulder-to-Shoulder to drive societal progress are encouraged to contact Riley Campbell for more information.