As I prepare to retire after nine years as the executive director of the Frontier Museum and Glenwood Historical Society, one question persists in my mind: Has my time as a leader of this organization helped prepare it to better face the future?

It would be easy to point to the numbers—how revenue has grown, how those funds have been used to improve the museum. These statistics are outlined in our annual report, presented to the Glenwood Springs City Council and the public this past January. But the true measure of our success is far more human. It is found in the hearts and hands of our volunteers.

Volunteers, the lifeblood of any nonprofit, are often simply described as people “we can’t do without.” How about: “What work do we do ‘with’ them?” The “we” includes Sharon who during my tenure signed up, cared for and coordinated them all. Let me tell you about the dedicated individuals who have made these nine years possible.

Debra and Corrine are our longest-serving volunteers, having greeted visitors at the museum for years, sharing their knowledge of Glenwood’s history. Our front desk people’s warmth and expertise make every guest feel welcome. When Debra is unavailable, Brett is always there ready with a hearty greeting and an answer to any question, his encyclopedic knowledge never failing to impress. Add Stacee as another front desk ace.

Martha’s talents extend far beyond the front desk. A retired newspaper editor and former executive director of a prominent valley nonprofit, she works at the front desk and is our data entry whiz and garden caretaker. Her insights have been invaluable to me as a trusted advisor.

Dale, a volunteer with a passion for uncovering the past, digs through our archives with the meticulous care of someone who understands the value of every forgotten document. His work will bring Glenwood’s rich history to the public, making it accessible not only now but for generations to come. Ted spent lots of time scanning all past donors for our electronic records.

Then there’s Debbie, who carefully scans our large collection of photographs, ensuring they are preserved digitally for future use. Thanks to staff archivist Peg and intern Ari, we are also building a digital catalog that will connect our photo collection with Garfield County Libraries, opening new doors for research and access to our region’s history.

There is Casey, Danyelle who recently joined us, anytime-you-need-me Keith and Nick the avid reader of history who is sadly moving from Glenwood. Lisa, your driving in from Silt on Saturdays to do front desk duty is exemplary.

All 34 of this year’s “ghostwalk” actors, guides and helpers who gave their time and braved the cold October nights to bring history alive have my utmost respect and gratitude. Special thanks to Ari for the new Vaudeville show, Clara and Carla for ramrodding the whole shebang.

These volunteers, both past and present, are the true legacy of the Frontier Museum and Glenwood Historical Society. They are the heartbeat of this organization, and they are the ones who will carry it forward, ensuring its future success.

To each of you who has volunteered your time, your passion and your expertise: I thank you. I will miss you. You are the measure of what we have accomplished together. Thank you for making these nine years so meaningful, and for giving the museum the foundation it will need to meet the future.

Bill Kight is Executive Director of the Glenwood Historical Society. He’ll be retiring soon after nine years.