Honoring Aaron: Gale Boonstra’s Journey of Giving Back

With contributions from family and friends, Gale established an endowed memorial fund in Aaron’s name, which now supports the Family Resource Center in the Gary Pavilion and the Association of Volunteers (AOV) at Children’s Hospital Colorado. 

“It’s important to me that Aaron isn’t just remembered as a victim,” said Gale. “When we started the memorial fund, I thought if it could help just one person change their life, it would be enough — to make something positive out of our tragedy and share Aaron’s life to help others.” 

Finding Purpose Through Volunteerism

A few years after Aaron’s death, Gale moved from Boulder to Denver and looked for ways to get involved in her new community. In 2019, she began volunteering at Children’s Colorado in the main Family Resource Center, where she quickly found a deep connection to the mission and people.   

“When I met with Kathleen McBride [the Director of AOV at Children’s Colorado] and shared my story, it just felt like the right place to be,” Gale recalled. “She placed me where I needed to be, and that first experience really won my heart. When the Family Resource Center opened in the Gary Pavilion, the chance to work with families in the clinic where Aaron’s disabilities would have been treated has been even more rewarding.” 

Gale quickly became an integral part of the Children’s Colorado community, building strong connections with staff, other volunteers and hospital leadership. In 2020, she joined the AOV Board, further deepening her commitment to the hospital. After recently serving two years as Vice Chair, she assumed the role of AOV Board Chair on June 1, 2025.  

“I’ve met so many amazing people, from patients and families to business leaders and volunteers from all over,” she said. “We all share a passion and appreciation for Children’s Colorado.” 

Leaving a Legacy of Compassion and Support

Recently, Gale deepened her commitment by documenting a planned gift through her will and designating Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation as the beneficiary of an inherited IRA.  

“Leaving gifts to Children’s Colorado Foundation through my estate was an easy decision,” said Gale. “I’ve come to love the hospital and its mission. These gifts will allow me to continue Aaron’s legacy and further ensure his memory will always be a blessing. Supporting the areas where I volunteer makes my heart happy and will make these services available to as many patient families as possible.”