On November 2, 2023, Hope House Colorado hosted its annual Grow with Us Gala at the Grand Hyatt Denver, bringing together 527 supporters to raise an impressive $672,000—$100,000 more than anticipated. This event not only exceeded fundraising goals but also highlighted the resilience and determination of the teen moms the organization serves.
Key Takeaways
- Record Attendance: 527 supporters attended the gala.
- Fundraising Success: The event raised $672,000, surpassing the goal by $100,000.
- Empowerment Focus: Hope House Colorado serves teen moms, helping them achieve self-sufficiency.
- Inspirational Speakers: Graduates shared their personal stories of overcoming adversity.
A Night of Celebration and Support
The gala was a night filled with joy and gratitude, as executive director Lisa Steven expressed her excitement over the overwhelming support from the community. The funds raised will directly benefit the 252 teen moms currently served by Hope House, providing them with essential resources and programs aimed at breaking the cycle of generational poverty.
Steven shared, "My favorite thing ever was to come to work on Monday morning and see the teen moms in seeming disbelief over the gala’s success. It’s so overwhelming to them that people believe in them."
Empowering Teen Moms
Hope House Colorado, founded in 2003, is dedicated to empowering parenting teen moms to strive for personal and economic self-sufficiency. The organization offers various programs, including:
- Educational Support: Classes on parenting, financial literacy, and personal development.
- Employment Opportunities: Six graduates are now employed at Hope House, with many others pursuing higher education.
- Childcare Services: The Early Learning Center currently enrolls 104 children, providing a safe and nurturing environment.
Inspiring Stories from Graduates
The evening featured powerful testimonials from Cindhia and Mekhi, two graduates of Hope House. Their stories of resilience and determination resonated with attendees:
- Cindhia: After facing a tumultuous childhood, she moved out at 14 and eventually became a homeowner and mother of two.
- Mekhi: Overcoming a challenging upbringing, she found Hope House after being kicked out at 16. Now a nursing assistant, she is also studying to become a sonogram technician.
A Successful Evening
The gala included a dinner, live auctions, and an after-party, all organized by a dedicated committee. The live auction alone raised $82,000, contributing significantly to the evening’s total.
Dave Runyon, executive director of CityUnite, served as the master of ceremonies, while Gary Corbett led the live auction.
Honoring Supporters
During the event, the 2024 Hero of Hope Award was presented to A.J. Seastone for his longstanding support of Hope House Colorado. This recognition highlights the importance of community involvement in the success of nonprofit organizations.
Conclusion
The Grow with Us Gala not only exceeded its fundraising goals but also reinforced the community’s commitment to supporting teen moms in their journey toward self-sufficiency. Hope House Colorado continues to be a beacon of hope, providing essential resources and support to those in need, ensuring a brighter future for both the mothers and their children.
