Lidia Varela
Event Coordinator, High Country Beverage & Crown Distributors | Founder, Draft Pony & LIFT Foundation
Connection has always been at the center of Lidia Varela’s work. Across her role with High Country Beverage and Crown Distributors, as well as the ventures she has built on her own, she focuses on bringing people together in ways that create lasting impact throughout Greeley and the surrounding region.
Her day-to-day work spans community engagement, sponsorships, and event coordination across Colorado and Kansas. From supporting nonprofit fundraisers to building partnerships with national and local organizations, her role is rooted in relationships—creating opportunities for collaboration and helping ideas come to life in meaningful ways.
That approach is shaped by her deep ties to Northern Colorado. Born in Greeley and raised along the Front Range, Lidia has remained closely connected to the community that helped shape her. Her continued involvement, including her work supporting and advocating within her communities, reflects both pride in where she comes from and a commitment to contributing to its future.
Over time, that commitment has expanded beyond her professional role. Draft Pony, a mobile draft beverage service, was created to bring people together in a different way—through shared experiences at events, celebrations, and gatherings. It reflects her understanding that some of the most meaningful moments happen when people have the space to connect.
She has also founded the LIFT Foundation, a nonprofit focused on supporting underserved children through education, mentorship, and community resources. The mission is centered on helping young people build confidence, stay engaged in school, and create opportunities that support their long-term success.
Together, these efforts reflect a consistent focus: creating spaces where people feel supported, included, and connected. “At the heart of it all, my goal is simple—building relationships and creating opportunities that strengthen the communities we serve,” Lidia says.
Outside of her work, family remains at the heart and foundation of everything. As one of six siblings, she grew up surrounded by a strong sense of togetherness—something she continues to prioritize today with her children and grandson. Time with family and close friends provides balance, grounding her in the relationships that inspire much of what she does.
Her involvement across the community extends through leadership roles with organizations including the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, Colorado Youth Outdoors, the Latino Chamber of Commerce, the Women’s Fund of Weld County, and the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, along with ongoing work supporting additional nonprofit efforts.
As she looks ahead, Lidia remains focused on continued growth—both within the organizations she represents and through the work she is building. With strong momentum behind her, her approach remains consistent: strengthening relationships and creating opportunities that bring people together. It’s also something she hopes the next generation carries forward.
“Leadership is the ability to inspire others, create space for their voices, and help them become more than they thought possible. Lead, live, and give back,” she says. “If my journey inspires someone to step into their purpose and use their voice boldly, that’s a legacy I’m proud of.”
“Leadership is the ability to inspire others, create space for their voices, and help them become more than they thought possible. Lead, live, and give back. If my journey inspires someone to step into their purpose and use their voice boldly, that’s a legacy I’m proud of.”