The Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor Bob Carnahan with the 2024 Valerie Arnold Volunteer of the Year Award. The award embodies those who demonstrate qualities of an active volunteer and are an inspiration for others to become engaged in the community.
Bob Carnahan began his tenure with the Chamber as a volunteer in 1992. Today he is one of our most active volunteers, serving on our Local Legislative Affairs Committee, our Finance Committee, serving two different terms on our Board of Directors, graduating from Leadership Fort Collins and has been an active volunteer with our Election Committee and our independent support of local elections. Bob has been a vital volunteer for many years, so many that he jokes, “There might have been dinosaurs wandering the back alleys of Fort Collins” when he first got involved.
Whether diving deep into public policy, advocating for a more substantial business environment, or simply showing up with a thoughtful perspective and a sense of humor, Bob shows what it means to be a steady, reliable force in the community.
He is the kind of volunteer who quietly makes everything better—with no expectation of recognition and every intention of helping others thrive.
“Bob has this rare combination of institutional knowledge, integrity, and a sense of humor that keeps everyone grounded,” said Ann Hutchison, Fort Collins Area Chamber President & CEO. “He brings a thoughtful voice to every conversation and has mentored many. ”
The Valerie Arnold Volunteer of the Year Award celebrates those who serve as the backbone of the Chamber—volunteers who inspire, lead, and uplift others. This year, Bob Carnahan embodies that spirit completely. Congratulations, Bob. And thank you for helping Fort Collins move forward—with purpose and perspective.