Since PCL Construction opened its first U.S. office in Colorado 50 years ago, its presence has extended beyond the jobsite through partnerships, volunteerism and a deeply rooted culture of giving back.

Now, decades later, the general contractor has built more than just structures. It has built a legacy of service, thanks to those who have generously given their time and talents to strengthen the communities where they live and work.

PCL in Denver became a corporate partner of the Mile High United Way (MHUW) in 1997 and has since raised more than $20 million to support the organization’s work in early childhood education, housing stability and basic needs assistance.

In 2014, the longstanding relationship took on a new meaning when PCL completed construction of the MHUW headquarters in downtown Denver. The centrally located building features a trauma-informed design, offering hope and critical resources to community members. Built to serve as both a functional space and a symbol of community care, the facility reflects MHUW’s mission to help families thrive. As a nod to PCL’s legacy of giving, the headquarters features a room named after retired PCL executive Peter Beaupré, who was once named Denver Business Journal’s Corporate Citizen of the Year in recognition of his charitable efforts.

Every fall, PCL in Denver join offices across North America in a fundraising campaign for their local United Way. The annual celebration energizes offices and jobsites with themed events, storytelling and a shared purpose.

“This isn’t just a fundraiser,” says Deron Brown, president and COO, U.S. Operations. “It’s a week where we come together for something bigger than ourselves. It’s a way to live out what PCL stands for, and make sure that spirit carries into the next generation.”

Gary Dahl, a senior procurement manager in Denver, has chaired the campaign since 2019 but his roots with MHUW run deep after his father, Denny, previously led campaign efforts.  PCL formally became a corporate partner with the MHUW in the late ’90s, but employees joined together to support the mission more than a decade before.

“My dad Denny ran the campaign in the ’80s and ’90s, and he’s still a top-level donor today,” he says. “For me, in my 22 years with PCL, the company’s traditions and teachings of social responsibility have been engrained in me. Leading this campaign is a way to carry that forward.”

PCL’s impact reaches far beyond its MHUW partnership. The company’s culture of giving is embedded at every level — from executive leadership to boots-on-the-ground employees. Many serve on nonprofit boards or volunteer their time and skills for causes that matter to them personally. For one PCL leader, that cause is Florence Crittenton Services.

Florence Crittenton provides wraparound education and early childhood development services to teen mothers and their children. The organization has had a PCL representative on its board for nearly two decades, something that reflects PCL’s approach to community service as something handed down, not handed off.

Ted Kijanka, assistant controller in Denver, is the fourth PCL employee to be appointed to a board seat for Florence Crittenton. He’s now been on the board for more than three years, saying he’s inspired by the opportunity to help elevate voices that are too often ignored.

“We’re talking about young women, most of them still in high school, raising children and trying to finish their education. A lot of society overlooks them. But the work Florence Crittenton does gives them a real chance. If I can help support that, I’m proud to do it.”

Ryan Schmidt, vice president and district manager of Denver Buildings, upholds PCL’s tradition of charitable service in his role on the board of Judi’s House. He was accepted to the board after the retirement from the board of Al Troppmann, retired president of PCL Construction Services.

Judi’s House is a nonprofit that provides grief support for children and families. PCL constructed the organization’s new facility, bringing a sense of personal investment to the project.

“Projects that positively impact our community mean something different,” Schmidt said. “They leave a mark on your heart and there’s a real sense of appreciation and connection when you’re building for a mission.”

PCL also supports Make-A-Wish Colorado, helping create unforgettable experiences for critically ill children. Deron Brown has supported the organization for more than 18 years and joined its board in 2020. Under his leadership, PCL teams contribute to granting construction/building-based wishes by donating their time and talents to bring joy to children and their families.

Most recently, PCL employees spent two days helping build a sensory garden for a toddler who communicates through eye contact and head movement. His family has wished for a backyard space to support his development and give him a place to spend time outdoors.

Employees helped by cleaning up the family's backyard, removing trees before planting new flowers and they also assisted with backdoor and ramp installation, among various other sensory installations.

Whether they’re giving their time, lending their skills or serving in leadership roles, PCL employees are united by a belief that building better communities is just as important as building projects. For many, that belief is what makes coming to work feel like more than just a job.

Fifty years later, PCL’s legacy in Colorado is reflected in the lasting impact made through its annual giving campaigns and volunteer efforts. Whether it’s serving on a board or helping transform the backyard of a Wish kid, PCL’s commitment to community is a company tradition rooted in meaningful, hands-on involvement.