Business Spotlight: I Bar Ranch strengthens community through music and giving

For more than a decade, I Bar Ranch has been known as a gathering place for concerts, weddings and western hospitality. Behind the scenes, however, the ranch has also become a quiet force for strengthening the Gunnison Valley community.

Over the past 13 years, I Bar Ranch has donated more than $70,000 to local nonprofit organizations while providing advocacy, financial support and greater visibility for their missions.

Beneficiaries have included Six Points, KBUT, Gunnison Rangeland Legacy, the Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley, the Crested Butte Snowsports Foundation, Living Journeys, Tough Enough To Wear Pink, Western Colorado University athletics, Gunnison Valley Mentors and local PTA and enrichment programs.

Head Wrangler Bryan Wickenhauser said music has always been about bringing people together, and the ranch believes local nonprofits should share in those benefits.

“Music is simply about community, and we want the community nonprofits to be additional beneficiaries of music,” Wickenhauser said. “When we can write a check to a local nonprofit, we know we have made this place a better place to live. It just feels good.”

The ranch’s community impact extends beyond charitable giving. I Bar Ranch also supports local businesses that help make its events possible. On-site partner Janniebird Farm has dedicated space for flower gardens, along with access to water, electricity and marketing support.

Meanwhile, weddings and concerts create opportunities for hotels, caterers, transportation companies, florists, photographers, musicians, DJs, hair and makeup artists and many other local vendors.

“Partnerships build stronger community resiliency, and music makes the world go round,” Wickenhauser said. “Combine the two, and this community is stronger and happier for it.”

Through its events and partnerships, I Bar Ranch continues to support organizations and businesses across the Gunnison Valley.

I Bar Ranch is part of the Gunnison Country Times Community Connect sponsored content program.