One Woman’s Legacy Touches Thousands

The life of Helen M. McLoraine began in Chicago, Illinois in 1918. Her father created educational products and her mother was an opera singer and philanthropist. Helen studied business at the University of Chicago and went on to succeed in leadership roles, breaking new ground for women in business. After her husband passed away, McLoraine moved to Denver and became involved in the community.

Continuing her mother’s dedication to philanthropy, Helen McLoraine established a private family foundation in the 1960s. During her lifetime, she supported many causes to which she had a personal connection, including education, services for youth, and figure skating. Although she passed away in 2003, her generosity continues in part through the various funds her trustees have established at The Denver Foundation. One of these funds provides support to caregivers of veterans and was established in honor of McLoraine's brother who served and was lost at sea in World War II <link to website page>. Another fund supports the U.S. Figure Skating's Scholastic Honors Team, helping young figure skaters pursue their dreams.

For McLoraine, defining philanthropy as a value during her lifetime and investing in causes dear to her heart has enabled her charitable legacy to live on forever. Through thoughtful estate planning and implementation, donations in her name will continue to make a significant difference to organizations and individuals.  From one generation to the next, philanthropy in the McLoraine family was indeed a respected tradition.