In a heartfelt move amid Colorado’s raging wildfires, the Rifle High School football team redirected part of their fundraiser to support victims of the massive Lee Fire near Meeker. This initiative highlights community spirit on the Western Slope, where the blaze has scorched over 116,000 acres and forced evacuations, as of August 18, 2025.

Team Turns Setback into Support

The Rifle Bears had planned a scrimmage to raise funds for their program, but smoke and safety concerns from the nearby wildfire canceled the event. Instead of giving up, head coach Ty Leyba and his players shifted gears.

They decided to donate 5% of sales from their Bear Cards fundraiser to relief efforts for the Meeker area. These cards offer discounts at local businesses and help fund team needs like equipment and travel.

This quick pivot came after school and practices were halted last week due to poor air quality. Leyba noted that the team wanted to show solidarity with neighboring communities hit hard by the fire.

Sales wrapped up on August 16, with the team actively promoting the cards around town. The effort not only raised money for the Bears but also channeled aid to those in need.

Wildfire’s Toll on Western Slope

The Lee Fire, sparked by lightning, has grown into Colorado’s fifth-largest wildfire ever, burning 116,859 acres with just 7% containment as of recent updates. Over 1,200 firefighters are battling extreme winds and dry conditions near Meeker and Rifle.

Evacuations have displaced residents, including from a prison and a senior facility. Smoke has blanketed the region, causing health issues like burning eyes and throats.

Local schools, including Meeker High School, resumed football practices amid the chaos, emphasizing community resilience. The fire has also closed highways like I-70 temporarily, disrupting travel and daily life.

• Key impacts include structure protection efforts through strategic burns.
• Winds have pushed the fire south toward Rifle, prompting more evacuations.
• No fatalities reported, but the blaze threatens homes and livestock.

Community Response and Appreciation

Teachers and staff at Rifle High School praised the team’s gesture, especially since many live in Meeker due to high housing costs in Rifle. The fundraiser brought excitement and a sense of unity.

Leyba shared that the community responded positively, seeing the Bears as more than just athletes. This act of kindness strengthened ties across the Western Slope, where rival teams often support each other in tough times.

Similar efforts have emerged elsewhere. For instance, other Colorado schools have hosted healing events at games to aid wildfire victims, drawing large crowds in red shirts for solidarity.

The donation teaches players about empathy and giving back, Leyba said. It reminds them that life can change quickly, much like a game on the field.

Lessons Beyond the Gridiron

For the young athletes, this experience goes deeper than fundraising. Leyba hopes it instills lifelong values of community support.

Players learned to adapt and help others, even when their own plans falter. This mirrors past events, like when Colorado teams rallied after the 2021 Marshall Fire, raising thousands through raffles and games.

As the season starts, the Bears aim to carry this spirit into their matches. It’s a reminder that teamwork extends off the field.

Broader Relief Efforts in Colorado

Colorado has seen a surge in wildfire aid initiatives this year, with funds like the Colorado Wildfires Fundraisers on GoFundMe collecting donations for immediate needs.

Here’s a quick look at recent wildfire relief activities in the state:

These efforts show a pattern of sports teams stepping up during crises.

How You Can Get Involved

Wildfire relief needs ongoing support as fires continue to burn. Consider donating to verified funds or volunteering locally.

Share this story to spread awareness, and comment below on how your community is helping wildfire victims. Your input can inspire more action.