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Women of Influence

The Women Behind the Greeley Stampede

Article by Provided

Photography by Tiara Rose Photography

Originally published in Greeley Lifestyle

For over a century, the Greeley Stampede has stood as a testament to community spirit and dedication. Since its inception, this iconic event has thrived in large part due to the tireless efforts of passionate volunteers. Among these dedicated individuals are remarkable women whose contributions have left a lasting mark on the Stampede's legacy. Their unwavering commitment to the Stampede’s success embodies the spirit of community involvement and highlights the profound impact of volunteerism. As we celebrate their invaluable contributions, we recognize the enduring legacy they've helped shape.

Jen Baiamonte

Group Parties Chairman

I've grown up attending the Greeley Stampede every summer with my family, and I'm passionate about bringing this event to our community for years to come. It's all about preserving the Western way of life and giving families the opportunity for affordable fun.

Watching friends, families and kids make memories together is one of my favorite parts. Seeing a child at their first concert, singing along with their parents, is something I'll never get tired of.

I've been attending the Stampede for over 30 years and volunteering for the past five. I've had plenty of standout memories but what really stands out is the way the Committee and volunteers come together to support each other.

I'd tell anyone who is curious about volunteering that they would be working alongside some incredibly hard working and selfless people. To boot, volunteers can choose the area they’d like to serve in, and they don't have to work through the entire event, leaving ample time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.

My husband and son volunteer with the Stampede as well. Serving as Stampede volunteers together has been rewarding and deepened our family’s ties to our community.

Julie Jensen

General Chairwoman

I have worked with the Stampede for nine years. By far, the thing I love most about the Stampede is the people. It may sound cliché, but it TRULY is one of the most amazing parts of the job. This position has allowed me to meet people from all walks of life, many of whom I might not have had the chance to meet if I had not been offered this opportunity. It has truly been life changing! 

The most rewarding thing about the Stampede is seeing all the good it does for our community and the memories it creates for so many families and friends. When someone tells you that the Stampede had a positive effect on their business or that they have been coming to the Stampede since they were a kid and now, they bring THEIR kids, you realize that you are part of something big. The Stampede is something that impacts so many in such positive ways.

I would tell anyone that is curious about volunteering to just try it! You will not regret it. I can honestly say that I have FUN picking up trash in the arena after a concert BECAUSE of the amazing volunteers. Of course, there are lots of ways you can volunteer. Most folks try it and find out that it really is a fun experience!

The Greeley Stampede is grateful to everyone for the continued support of the event over the last 102 years. We know folks have many choices for entertainment, and we are so thankful for their patronage of the Stampede. Secondly, a huge thank you to all our sponsors, donors and local city and county governments that give to help us throw this big party every year. They are instrumental in our success.  And of course, a GIGANTIC THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, past and present. They have been the backbone of the event for over 102 years, and we are so appreciative of each one of them.

Jacki Reider

Hospitality Chair

I would tell anyone that is curious about volunteering to just get involved! You don't have to volunteer every day of the event; any participation helps! If you have an interest in being a part of the Greeley Stampede Committee, talk to one of us! You can find us on the website.

The thing I love most about working with the Stampede is contributing to the largest summer community event in Northern Colorado. It is so rewarding to see thousands of people enjoying the events every year - especially the PRCA Rodeo performances.

Denise Finning

Stampede Concert Interpreter (sign-language) 

The thing I love most about working with the Stampede is all the people that I get to work with! My interpreting partner, Renee Cyr, who drives up from Arvada to do all the shows with me, and the stage crew volunteers are an amazing, hardworking and fun group of people. I love seeing and working with them every year.

Being an interpreter on the stage is a lot of fun, but I don't do it alone. My amazing partner Renee and I don't just get up there and interpret. We spend months, from the time the concerts are announced until the concert, listening to the bands' music, looking up signs we may not know, and practicing so that we can convey the music to the Deaf community to the best of our ability. Concert interpreting is a lot of fun, but it is also a lot of hard work.

The most rewarding experience I have had during the Stampede is getting to know all of the crew and becoming friends with them over the years. I always look forward to the two weeks that I get to spend out there.

My Best memory is interpreting for "For King and Country." They are an amazing couple of guys, and the concert was by far my favorite one to interpret, so far.

I would tell anyone that is curious about volunteering just DO IT! Be ready to have a great time, but also be ready to work hard and don't be afraid to "get your hands dirty." The volunteers that I have worked with pour their heart and soul into the Stampede every year.

  • Jen Baiamonte
  • Julie Jensen
  • Jacki Reider
  • Denise Finning

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