Colorado Springs, CO September 23, 2023: The one thing better than creating a development that delivers positive change? Being able to showcase the community, partners and residents that make success possible. Recently, the Vecino Group had this opportunity at one of our permanent supportive housing developments.
On September 22nd, members of the National Association for County Community and Economic Development (NACCED) met in Colorado Springs, Colorado for its 47th Annual Educational Conference. As representatives of the more than 3,000 Counties across the United States, attendees focus on tools and training to better achieve their mission: to provide education, resources for local governments’ ability to create sustainable communities and equitable economies through affordable housing.
As an example of a best-in-class community, a group of NACCED members were treated to a tour of Freedom Springs—the permanent supportive housing development in Colorado Springs focused on veteran homelessness in El Paso County. Opened in 2018, Freedom Springs provides 50 units of housing for veterans experiencing homelessness as well as onsite supportive services and case management. Amenities include a community room with full kitchen, fitness area, food pantry, meeting and classrooms, outdoor patio and community garden. The development was and is made possible through partnership between the Vecino Group, El Paso County, Volunteers of America, Veterans Affairs and Ross-Evolve Management.
Brooke Parra, Executive Vice President of Ross-Envolve said “When the time and care are taken upfront to help a community thrive, it certainly shows—which is a part of why we are here today, to help share with others the successes and things that we have found work well.”
The groups toured the building and grounds (including the resident-maintained community gardens), and with met staff and residents. The experience was capped off by an informative/Q&A session on Supportive Housing presented by Heather Bradley-Geary, Vecino Group Director of Supportive Services.
“Partnership is the lifeblood of purpose-driven development. The impactful supportive housing which Vecino creates for counties across the country would not be possible if not for our successful partnerships among NACCED members—and El Paso County is exemplary.” said Bradley-Geary.
“Truly, it’s our collective team makes Freedom Springs such a success for our residents and community.”
