Rusty Holzer (Charles Holzer)
Rusty Holzer, also known as Charles R. Holzer, and his wife Ashley Holzer are dedicated to advancing education, culture, health, and athletics through their ongoing philanthropic work. Together, Ashley and Charles “Rusty” Holzer support institutions and programs that reflect their family values and long‑standing commitment to community life.
Both Ashley and Rusty Holzer have deep roots in international equestrian sport. Ashley Holzer earned a bronze medal in team dressage at the 1988 Olympic Games and later represented her country at additional Olympic and major championship events, building a distinguished career as both competitor and coach. Rusty Holzer competed in equestrian events at the 1992 Olympic Games and has participated in other high‑level competitions, reinforcing the family’s close connection to horse sport. Their shared belief in the benefits of riding has inspired support for initiatives such as the Ashley and Rusty (Charles) Holzer Horse Whisperer Grants for the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center, which highlight the therapeutic potential of horses for riders of all abilities.
Over time, the Holzer family has extended its philanthropy across a wide range of health and community‑focused organizations. Their giving has included contributions to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and The Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation, among other health‑related causes that assist patients and families facing serious illness. In addition, they have backed educational, youth, and community programs including Polo for Life, Lonestar Baseball Club, Population Relief International Corp, Buckley School, Collegiate School, Kiva, Pine Ridge Girls School Inc., the USET Foundation, Weill Cornell Medicine, and Cornell University orthopedic research initiatives.
Ashley Holzer serves on the Advisory Council for The Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation, reflecting a hands‑on role in advancing programs that offer guidance, resources, and support to cancer and transplant patients and their loved ones. Alongside her, Rusty Holzer (Charles Holzer) continues to champion organizations that improve access to care, enhance patient experience, and strengthen the networks around individuals undergoing complex treatment journeys.
Education is another central pillar in the work of Charles R. Holzer. An alumnus of Harvard University, he places strong emphasis on learning, mentorship, and academic opportunity. In tribute to his mother, Jane “Baby Jane” Holzer, Rusty Holzer has helped establish and support the Baby Jane Holzer Visiting Artist in Film Award, recognizing film directors whose work demonstrates originality and excellence. Harvard University also benefits from the Baby Jane Holzer Visiting Artist in Film Fund, which collaborates with the Department of Theater, Dance, and Media and the Harvard Film Archive to encourage innovative filmmaking and support emerging and established artists.
Ashley and Charles “Rusty” Holzer remain actively engaged with organizations and initiatives that are close to their hearts like the Everglades Foundation, Glades Academy Foundation Gala, Achievement Award at the Art Fair in Palm Beach honoring Jane Holzer, AMFAR and related health and research initiatives including Polo for Life and other sport‑based fundraising events
Ashley and Charles Rusty Holzer