Paul Major

Paul Major's contibutions to the community are just that — major. Since coming to Telluride in 2000 to start the philanthropic Telluride Foundation, he has drawn significant funds to the region to help buoy local nonprofits, $2.1 million last year alone.

Of that figure, some 80 percent represents new funding, drawn from resources that did not exist prior to the work of Telluride Foundation. Major said it was good timing.

"What we were able to do is attract new donor and more untapped resources," said Major. "It sounds like a cliche, but it was the right thing at the right time and the right place. Not just for me, but for Telluride."

Telluride Foundation supports everything from immigrant services, to land and watershed conservation, and holds seminars teaching people about grantwriting and running non-profits. Major is proud of the help that his organization can give.

"In a prosperous community lke Telluride, there's still a lot of emerging and unmet needs," says Major. "But we have the ability and luxury of being proactive."

Major was formerly in Park City, involved with the U.S. Ski Team. He lives in Telluride with his wife, Lois, the town's municipal attorney, and their three children, Victor, Naomi and Malcolm.

What is Plum 98? It¹s a collection of 98 individuals (a nice, round number) who have etched a mark in the Telluride community with positive energy and vision. Be it in the realm of art, recreation or politics, we at Plum want to recognize these local stars for their encouragement and inspiration. To read about more interesting locals, check out the rest of Plum 98ers.