Have you heard the term "working poor?" These are individuals who, despite working more than 40 hours per week, still fall below poverty levels.
In fact, there is not a congressional district in the U.S. where a full-time, minimum-wage worker could afford a two-bedroom apartment.
​Not one.
Did you also know that more than 40 million people in the U.S. live in poverty and more than half of these individuals are experiencing extreme poverty?
I had an eye-opening experience helping Urban Strategies, Inc. show the impact they are having on distressed communities across the U.S. From Galveston to Columbus, I helped tell the stories of Urban Strategies programs, partners, and people who seek to help individuals find pathways to self-sufficiency and success. Check out the 2018 Impact Report here. 

I recently had the honor of helping Laradon, a local non-profit that supports individuals with disabilities, celebrate its 70th Anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, we created a video that tells the story of Laradon's founders, its programs' impact on individuals and families, and the nonprofit's place as a cornerstone of the Globeville neighborhood. 
The best part of my job is when I get the opportunity to meet the people behind the programs and witness the transformative quality of an organization's mission. This is the first of many videos in this project to build brand awareness, increase engagement, and educate about the organization. I can't wait to share them all.
Thanks to Local Eyes Video Production for being a great partner on this project!

Case studies are somewhat of a nerdy passion of mine. I love getting to know a business through its customers' experiences and translating those experiences into strategic communications. Plus, I guess I just enjoy talking to people! This profile/case study was for Green House Data, a provider of cloud, colocation, and green data centers. Green House Data is customer-centric and very good at what they do, AND they have a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. Green House Data encourages its employees to volunteer and they are always looking for opportunities to support nonprofits. You've got to love clients you can truly get behind! 

In 1948, Joseph and Elizabeth Calabrese were told there was no place for their sons, Larry and Donald to live or learn. So, they created Laradon - the very first school for individuals with disabilities in the Rocky Mountain Region.
Today Laradon continues to provide individualized services and support to children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Through education, community living, employment opportunities, and behavioral supports, Laradon helps individuals exceed expectations and participate in the life of their community.
Each individual is supported to grow and engage with their community while prioritizing their interests, goals, and unique abilities. They are true examples of person-centered thinking and support. The 2016-2017 Annual Impact Report shows the profound impact Laradon programs have had on the lives of these amazing individuals, their families, and the community at large. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know all of these individuals featured!
Design by Blue Linen Creative. 
​Read the full report here >>>> 

On Monday, May 8, 2017, the Globeville neighborhood was hit by a massive storm that led to high-powered winds and large-sized hail. Laradon, a nonprofit organization that has been serving children and adults with developmental disabilities in the Metro Denver area for 68 years, saw such significant damage on its campus that they had to close the school and adult programming for the week. Amid all of the destruction, hope was restored thanks to an outpouring of community support. The Denver Police Department, the Colorado Elks Association, and countless others came out to help clean up the site. 
Though insurance will cover the lion’s share of the repairs, the organization has significant financial burdens, including loss of revenue. With 90 skylights broken, water damage was a major problem and the roofs of 17 of its buildings need to be replaced. Contractors working with Laradon estimate there will be 2 to 3 million dollars in damages and it will take up to 5 months to complete. If you are interested in donating to help with the recovery effort, you can support Laradon at www.classy.org/campaign/repair-laradon/c130156.
I am so impressed with this nonprofit and the desperately needed services they provide to enable individuals to "live without limits" and thrive. I'm so happy to be supporting them!

You probably know Goodwill for its network of retail stores throughout the country, but did you know that with that revenue they provide life-changing community programs in the area of workforce development?
Goodwill Industries of Denver believes that the communities they serve are better, stronger, and more sustainable because Goodwill is there. This annual impact report details Goodwill’s efforts to empower and sustain our future workforce, our economy, and our environment. Together with their partners, donors, and shoppers, Goodwill is able to create lasting, positive change for more than 27,000 Coloradans in need. I am so proud to work with them.
CLICK HERE to read the full report>>