$100,000 for Moving Families Forward
Photo by Bryan Construction
“Moving Families Forward” was the theme of the Partners in Housing July 25 fundraiser at the elegant Club at Flying Horse.
Under clear skies on the patio, 140 guests sampled hors d’oeuvres and beverages as the sun set. This lovely setting with views of Pikes Peak likely contributed to meeting the $100,000 fundraising goal for the evening.
Renowned psychologist Abraham Maslow spent his career studying basic human needs. The need for shelter and food is primary before a person can begin to move on to other levels, including safety, belonging, achievement, and self-fulfillment. The mission of Partners in Housing perfectly illustrates the role this organization takes in not only meeting basic needs, but in addressing all levels with a goal of leading a fulfilling life.
The nonprofit’s mission is to “guides families in housing crisis from insecurity to stability, self-reliance and prosperity.”
Executive Director Mary Stegner has been instrumental in Partners in Housing’s success over the past 30 years. She explained to attendees that the “partners” who receive services are families in crisis with devastating housing issues. All the families served have children, and 90% are headed by single mothers. In 75% of the cases domestic violence is a factor. Confidentiality is key to maintain the safety of those who are highly motivated to change their circumstances.
Per partnersinhousing.org, program applicants must be at least 18, be willing and able to work, legal U.S. residents, and be able to pass a criminal background check. “The household must be homeless, in imminent danger of becoming homeless, or fleeing domestic violence,” states the website.
Once accepted into the program the partners receive a multitude of services along with transitional housing. Partners in Housing maintains 60 transitional housing units in the Colorado Springs area.
“Graduated partner” Keri Ellen White told the audience that she found Partners in Housing while she was going through an “ugly divorce” and had ended up “couch-surfing” with her two children in the homes of generous friends. Realizing that she needed help to move forward, she applied to receive services.
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