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| | Willis Wodnik and his family
| Willis Wodnik
I relocated to Steamboat in 2003 to be closer to my hobbies of mountain biking and snowboarding. Today, my wife and I are proud owners of several small businesses in the valley, actively involved with non-profit organizations, and raising two children. Since 2013, our company, Colorado Event Rentals, has been a dedicated supporter of the Winter Sports Club.
I served on the Urban Renewal Authority Advisory Committee (URAAC) for over a decade, during which we successfully approved and implemented multiple projects that enhanced both the visual appeal and functionality of the mountain base area. Collaborating with fellow business professionals on URAAC was a rewarding experience, as we worked towards our shared goal of improving community assets.
Currently, I am a member of the Northwest Loan Fund Committee, a state-run initiative that provides capital and fosters job creation for small businesses in rural Colorado. Throughout my tenure, we have disbursed millions of dollars to emerging and established companies across Northwest Colorado, all with a job creation requirement that has generated hundreds of jobs in our region. Notably, our area has funded more businesses than any other region in Colorado, with Routt County leading the way.
As small business owners, my wife and I operate Colorado Event Rentals, CER Linen Service, and Grant Becks Enterprises, collectively employing nearly 100 individuals in the Yampa Valley. In addition to our long-standing support for the Winter Sports Club, we contribute to various Routt County, youth-focused non-profits through volunteer work and donations.
Our two children, Sasha (12) and Robbie (14), have been members of the Winter Sports Club since they were just three years old. Sasha enjoys the camaraderie of the club and participates in three different disciplines—cross-country mountain biking, downhill mountain biking, and free skiing—though she prefers not to compete. In contrast, Robbie is highly competitive and actively competes in four disciplines: skimo, big mountain skiing, cross-country high school mountain biking, and enduro mountain biking. Having two children with such different goals gives me valuable insight into the diverse needs and aspirations of families within the club. I am dedicated to ensuring that every child, regardless of their competitive desires, finds a welcoming and fulfilling place within the Winter Sports Club.
Non-profit or other board experience:
URAAC Board Member for 10 years, Northwest Loan Fund Loan Committee member for 10 years.
Professional background:
My wife and I founded Colorado Event Rentals in 2008. In 2017, we acquired a defunct commercial laundry operation and successfully revitalized it, bringing it back to full functionality. To further expand our business portfolio, we purchased a competing laundry company in 2019 and an additional event rental company in 2024. Today, we continue to own and operate both the laundry and event rental businesses.
Qualifications for the SSWSC board:
I bring a strong foundation in business acumen, with a keen understanding of financial management and analysis. My long-standing ties to the community further enhance my ability to engage effectively with local stakeholders. Additionally, as a parent of both competitive and non-competitive athletes within the Winter Sports Club, I possess a unique perspective that allows me to understand and advocate for the diverse needs of all families involved in the organization.
Why I want to serve on the SSWSC board:
As the father of two children who have grown up within the club, I am truly excited about the opportunity to serve on the SSWSC Board. As a business owner, I’ve learned how important it is to adapt and meet the needs of those we serve. I want to bring that same dedication to the SSWSC, working to ensure that every family feels included and has the best possible experience within the club.
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