The ‘Front Porch’ of my childhood home in Pagosa carries profound significance for me. It served as a place of warmth and connection, where I frequently spent hours talking about my days’ discoveries, with my wise and compassionate neighbor, Bill Streets. At seven or eight years old, the porch was not just a structure; it was my safe haven. There, I would lose track of time alongside Bill, whose presence transformed that porch into a warm embrace of affirmation, belonging and purpose.

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As I reflect on those memories, I grasp the far reaching influence that those moments on the porch have had on my life. Bill’s authentic kindness inspired me to create a similar refuge for those in need, especially the chronically homeless in Denver. I hold an unwavering belief that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a safe place to call home - and I am dedicated to making that vision a reality.

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In a city like Denver grappling with homelessness, my mission is to create a sanctuary or "Front Porch" of hope and healing where every individual feels seen and valued. I aspire to hear the stories of those experiencing homelessness, to genuinely acknowledge them, and to affirm that their experiences hold value. 

 

Addressing homelessness is a multifaceted issue that calls for a collaborative approach. Addressing homelessness is a community challenge. Together, we can tackle its root causes—the catastrophic loss of family, affordable housing and mental health access—through advocacy and collaboration. My vision is to weave a new narrative for our city, one founded on the principles of compassion and humanity. Together, we can dismantle the prison of homelessness by empowering our community to lift individuals off the streets.

The front porch of my childhood remains a fire in my heart, inspiring me to dedicate my life to helping the chronically homeless find a place to call home and a fresh start.