The Empty Stocking Fund raised a record high $1.74 million for 20 local health and human service agencies in El Paso and Teller counties this campaign season.

For 42 years, the philanthropic fundraiser has raised money through donations to support nonprofits in the Pikes Peak region. The campaign has raised more than $28 million throughout the years, according to its website. It starts every Thanksgiving and goes through the beginning of February.

It capped off with a gathering, hosted this year at the Penrose House on Wednesday to celebrate the year’s final tally.

“I live and breathe the Empty Stocking Fund,” said Kelly Spieker, program and events manager for The Gazette Charities Foundation. “It’s validating knowing that I did some good because those funds go to these agencies so they can keep serving my community.”

Spieker and Executive Director Danielle Ramacciotti credit this season’s record high to new partnerships and a push to advertise the fund on social media.

“The key message is, ‘Every dollar stays local. Every dollar matters,'” Spieker said.

The message has gone a long way, Spieker said, adding that the Empty Stocking Fund has retained 70% of donors year over year.

According to the Empty Stocking Fund website, every dollar donated to the campaign can grow up to 50% through matching grants from the Bruni, Chapman and El Pomar foundations. The Bruni Foundation matches $1 for every $10 raised up to $100,000; the Chapman Foundation matches $1 for every $5 raised up to $75,000; and the El Pomar Foundation matches $1 for every $3 raised up to $200,000.

Ramacciotti said people can look forward to several events for next season.

The Broadmoor will host next season’s golf tournament in late August. The Empty Stocking Fund has also partnered with the Colorado Springs Switchbacks for their Dead Man’s Brewfest in October.