Kooler Garage Doors, a Grand Junction business, has launched a new community initiative called the “First Yes Award,” which will give a complete garage door system to a deserving Western Slope resident. The award seeks to honor a local “helping hand” who consistently goes above and beyond for their neighbors and community without being asked. Nominations for the inaugural award are open now through midnight on October 4.
According to Matt Kuehlhorn, owner of Kooler Garage Doors, the award is a direct nod to the company's humble beginnings over a decade ago. At that time, Kuehlhorn operated Kooler as a one-person venture with just a truck, lacking a portfolio to demonstrate his work. He credits an early customer from another town who “took a chance” and hired him, providing the crucial first “yes” that helped establish his business. Kuehlhorn said the award is a "shoutout to the very first deal that I ever did that started Kooler Garage Doors." This history inspired him to pay it forward by recognizing others who make a quiet but significant difference in the community.
The “First Yes Award” aims to highlight individuals who embody the spirit of selfless service. Kuehlhorn described potential recipients as those who “make our communities run,” often operating “under the radar.” This could include a local coach, a dedicated teacher, a first responder, or a neighbor who assists others with household fixes or errands. Kuehlhorn’s vision for the award is deeply rooted in his own family history, drawing inspiration from his grandpa, who was known as a neighborhood craftsman. His grandpa exemplified the type of person “that would never drive past you if you had your hood up on the highway,” always ready to help those in need.
Kooler Garage Doors is encouraging community members across the Western Slope to nominate individuals who have “said yes” to them or their families, or who have positively impacted the community in meaningful ways. The company is specifically looking for people who give the most without being prompted. Matt Kuehlhorn is particularly interested in the personal narratives behind the nominations, encouraging residents to “bring creativity, nominate recklessly, and bring the stories” that illustrate these unsung heroes.
This marks the first time the “First Yes Award” is being given, but Kooler Garage Doors plans for it to become an “annual community give back initiative.” Following the close of nominations on October 4, the selected community member will be announced after the Housing and Building Association of Western Colorado’s Parade of Homes concludes. Residents wishing to nominate a deserving individual for their contributions to the Western Slope community are encouraged to do so before the deadline.
