Faces around town

Colorado Serum Company, 4950 York Street

Colorado Serum Company started in 1923, when Hog Cholera disease was decimating the swine industry in the United States. In1922, Dr. J.N. Huff, a graduate of the Kansas City Veterinary College, moved to Denver and opened a satellite manufacturing plant of the American Serum Company, which was located in Sioux City, IA. Denver’s high altitude provided hogs with enriched blood, so Colorado was considered an ideal environment for producing a new antiserum for Hog Cholera. In 1923, the small Denver plant began production and shortly thereafter separated from American Serum to become Colorado Serum Company. Hog Cholera was eventually eradicated from the United States.

Colorado Serum went on to expand its product lines to include a full range of large animal biologicals, large animal veterinary instruments, veterinary diagnostics, specialty products, and laboratory reagents. The facilities now cover 22 acres in Denver and contain all manufacturing and administrative offices, along with some 450 animals, including horses, cows, pigs, goats and sheep. Products are marketed and distributed by numerous animal health companies across the globe.

Colorado Tire Recycling, 5101 Columbine Street

Teresa Immel didn't plan to own a business in the tire industry. In fact, not too long before she took Colorado Tire Recycling over from her husband, who began consulting for renewable energy options, she was a flight attendant. It may seem quite the change, but it’s her love of meeting people that’s been a key factor in the transition. And since Colorado Tire Recycling is the only facility in Denver (the next closest is 35 miles away in Hudson), she engages with a lot of folks every day.

Colorado Tire is a processor, and the two-acre property sees approximately 1.5 million tires annually – this is a quarter of all tires processed in the state. Most of these are from commercial and auto businesses, though individuals may also bring in their old tires for recycling. Some tires are made into bails used by farmers for windbreakers or pen dividers; some become “tire-derived aggregate” used in landfills for better drainage; and some become "tire-derived fuel" for cement plants.

(Did you know tires have twice the BTU as coal and half of the greenhouse gas emissions, so they’re a more environmentally-friendly option for use in cement production? If you're interested in learning more about the various uses of tire-derived aggregate, check out this video produced by the State of California.)

Conscience Bay Company, 5151 Bannock Street

In 1922, the Chicago Burlington & Quincy Railroad purchased 280 acres in the area that’s now immediately west of I-25 and north of I-70 and spent $3M to construct a repair plant to service its western lines. They called it “The Denver Shops” and remained in operation there – to greater and lesser degrees – until 1955. Though the property has since been known by other names, a unique real estate investment and management firm, Conscience Bay Company, now owns it and occupies a modest footprint on site.

As you would expect of a real estate investment firm, Conscience Bay owns and operates commercial properties on the Front Range. But it’s their inclusion of rural agricultural lands, working farms and ranches, and their ecological vigilance that separates them from the herd (pun intended). They manage more than 100,000 acres of organic farmland, including a 3,200-acre ranch below the Grand Mesa that supports approximately 1,000 black angus cows. They’re also an investor in an Arizona-based solar project. It IS outside of the box, but for Eli Feldman, President, it’s a good fit with his diverse background of environmental remediation, renewable energy, water rights and ranching operations.

This focus and care is also practiced on a micro level on site. Tucked away in the back corner of the parcel is “The Farm at Repurpose Park,” on land the team had remediated. Through the arch of recycled skis, you’ll find raised vegetable beds, a chicken coop, and a meditative labyrinth for the days when you need to clear your mind. The tenants of the property divide labor to care for the tiny farm and share its harvest. It’s a sweet spot, and one that deserves a visit if you’re at their offices.

Core Contractors Roofing Systems, 4049 St. Paul Street

Walking into Core Contractors Roofing Systems, you’re greeted by their 2018 “Bright Star” award from Owens Corning. It’s fitting, once you’ve been in the presence of Andrew Schmidt and Tomas Wolfram, who united to form Core about 12 years ago. Together, they’ve created a people-first business culture that extends from clients to staff.

They didn’t start like this, though. Andrew shared that they spent their first three years mimicking what they thought the industry was without thinking about who they were. Today, they strive to change a long-held perception that roofing companies are dicey entities. They believe “doing it right matters” and transparency and accountability are key. Indeed, many visual reminders in the building point to a group of individuals united by a common purpose and unparalleled service, which they bring to commercial and residential projects alike.

Core also extends their values beyond their roofing services and into community resources. They believe it’s important to be involved in and give back to the neighborhoods they live and work in, so all of their 40 or so employees are given a paid day off each quarter to go out and volunteer around town. Like I said, these folks are bright stars with a contagious dose of good energy.

Denver Dispensary, 4975 Vasquez Boulevard

With member Denver Dispensary, it’s always 4/20! Family-owned and operated by Eric Roth and his brother-in-law, Tom, Denver Dispensary has been serving the community at Vasquez Boulevard since 2011. These past 10 years have been a learning experience for the duo, who weren’t home-growers. Eric, who has a sales background and a real estate license, was attracted to the industry when his mom was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and given just a few months to live. In the six intervening years after her diagnosis, he saw first-hand how marijuana eased her pain, and he’s an outspoken advocate for its use.

He’s also a fan of local and organic –all of their plants are all grown locally by people who care about quality. In the near future, it’ll be even more “local,” as they have plans to construct a greenhouse facility on site. This would take their modest footprint of 1600 square feet to 19,000, most of which would be grow space. They’re also working toward making the dispensary a green business, which would work off of reclaimed water and have a low- to no-carbon footprint. (Virtual high five!)

Finally, I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out their wide variety of products: whether you prefer to smoke it, eat it, or drink it, they have what you need. Their staff also has dozens of recipes for marijuana-infused bakery items, teas, tinctures, and fruit juices. (If you have a favorite recipe to share, let them know, and they’ll add it to their list!)

Eaton Metal Products, 4800 York Street

What started in 1880 by Albert Nathaniel Eaton as a general store serving the agricultural and ranching communities of the Arizona territory, has grown to become the largest vessel and tank manufacturer in the Rocky Mountain region – Eaton Metal Products.

Eaton Metal Products was established in Denver in 1919. Today, it has 11 sales and service locations, a staff of approximately 250, and production facilities in Denver, Salt Lake City and Pocatello, Idaho. In these facilities, Eaton fabricates a staggering number of vessel and tank types for customers around the world. From underground tanks for gas stations, to emergency generators for hospitals, to the heaviest object to be transported on the federal highway system – an autoclave measuring 76' long x 22.5' in diameter and weighing approximately 1,000,000 pounds! – the staff at Eaton takes pride in satisfying the most demanding customer specifications and project timelines.

Notably, they also provide 100% traceability for all material that enters their shops. In a era when a deep minority of family-owned businesses have this kind of longevity, fourth-generation Eaton Metal Products is clearly doing it right!

Focus Points Family Resource Center, 2501 E. 48th Avenue

Focus Points Family Resource Center has been serving and advocating for families in the greater Denver area since 1995. They are one of 31 family resource centers across the state of Colorado and provide services that help families pursue their goals and thrive, with a specific emphasis on two-generation engagement.

Focus Points has approximately 1500 individuals in its programs, which globally focus on "family" and "education & economic opportunity." "Family" programming includes early childhood education and an array of support services — such as their bike library, free exercise classes, and group discussions about communication, values and relationships — that meet families' basic needs and build community. "Education & economic opportunity" includes adult ed / English classes, career readiness and soft skills development. They also offer technical culinary skills and entrepreneurship training through Comal Heritage Food Incubator.

Focus Points is a 501(c)3 non-profit. You can support their good work by donating here.

Forney Museum of Transportation, 4303 Brighton Boulevard

The Forney Museum of Transportation began as the private collection of J.D. Forney of Fort Collins. It began 60 years ago with a single 1921 Kissel; Forney traded welding equipment for vehicles, and it quickly expanded. Today, it's a one-of-a-kind collection of over 600 artifacts relating to historical transportation — from rail to passenger vehicles to small planes and more — and is visited by over 40,000 enthusiasts each year.

Walking into the museum, you're greeted by the rich smell of history, of motor oil and well-traveled rubber, and will likely see Christof Kheim, Forney's enigmatic Executive Director and one of only three full-time staff. Christof, together with his father, started as a museum volunteer in 2007. Two years later, he was hired as the assistant Director and then promoted to Executive Director. With a background in assisted living, he might not seem the obvious choice. Once you learn he has 28 vehicles in his own collection (a 1940 Studebaker is his pride and joy), though, you have no doubt Forney is in the best hands possible.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit, Forney also relies on memberships and ticket sales to keep the facility open and the collection in pristine condition. If you're looking for a unique experience, transport yourself over to Forney. It's a solid choice!

Fort Greene, 321 E. 45th Avenue

If you haven’t visited Fort Greene, you’re in for a treat! The modest exterior of this woman-owned business belies the rich atmosphere you’ll find inside. Indeed, it’s hard to know just what to take in first: the late-1800s Brunswick bar that was brought here in the 1960s, antique pianos, lush décor, inviting seating, and gorgeous vintage wallpaper all play their part in making you want to cozy up with a craft drink in hand.

This is exactly how Eleanor Cheetham, the self-described “visual junkie” and fresh face behind the establishment, wants you to feel. She’s been here for almost six years, coming by way of Fort Greene – a neighborhood in the borough of Brooklyn – and Austin prior to that. She began working here when it was called Crash 45; when the previous owner decided to sell the business, she jumped at the chance and provided it with the new moniker.

Though creative cocktails might be the first reason you visit (try their popular “Lovers in the Parking Lot” with mezcal), you’ll find many more reasons to return. Eleanor is firm in her belief that they should support those who live in the neighborhood in a variety of ways. To this end, she hosts “Made By Us,” a merchant collective craft market; provides space for a community fridge; and hosts other creative opportunities in smaller spaces inside Fort Greene. Grab some friends and come experience what they’re serving up – I’m certain you’ll be delighted.

Geotech Environmental Equipment, 2650 E. 40th Avenue

Jerry Popiel, Chairman, launched Geotech in 1956 and started with a staff of three; today, son Jeff Popiel is the President and CEO and oversees a staff of about 120. Externally, there are now three companies — Geotech Environmental Equipment, Leptron Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Universal Plastics — and together they offer a range of products, including water and air quality equipment, custom and standard plastic tubing extrusions, unmanned aircraft systems and much more. In addition to its 125,000 square-foot manufacturing plant and corporate headquarters on E. 40th Avenue, Geotech also operates service centers in eight states, plus a European sales center in Barcelona, Spain and a representative office in Beijing, China.

As impressive as this is, it’s the internal operations that make Geotech a desirable employer. The company culture is focused on communication and problem-solving, and Jeff actively seeks ways to create an environment where folks trust each other enough to give honest feedback. This includes daily “gemba walks” with his managers and visits to their different departments to see where the work is really happening.

Jeff also believes “unused creativity is the biggest waste,” so they invest in art as it relates to tech development and work to connect the right and left parts of the brain. This translates to a facility robust with original works of art and even an artist-in-residence. The culture of caring extends beyond their walls, too: it's evident in Geotech's deep commitment to the GES community, including their recent sponsorship and build of a Habitat for Humanity home.

Globe Hall, 4483 Logan Street

If you want the inside scoop on Denver's music scene, including who's coming through town, Gwen Campbell is the woman to ask. Gwen and husband Scott own three music venues, including Globeville-based Globe Hall, Larimer Lounge and Lost Lake Lounge, and they're all hopping with tunes and good vibes. Equally important, Globe Hall dishes up fab food — like their award-winning BBQ and pulled pork nachos — Wednesday through Sunday (and on Mondays and Tuesdays if there's a gig). The venue is also available to rent: from group happy hours, to nonprofit charity events, to birthday parties, they'll help you create a memorable event.

And if she wasn't busy enough, Gwen donned another hat when she accepted the invitation to join the DeNo Business Association Board of Directors in 2019. Her background in environmental oversight and previous board leadership on the Colorado Hazardous Waste Management Society, coupled with her sound entrepreneurial skills, clearly make her a great fit!

Green RiNo, 3450 Brighton Boulevard

Andrew Brody and Dan Egusquiza have been friends since college and are also the faces of Green RiNo (formerly Whole Meds). A Florida native, Andrew arrived in Denver in 2013 and put his finance degree to good use in the marijuana industry. In 2018, he purchased the facility (formerly a dilapidated auto mechanic’s shop) and then undertook renovations to create a pristine and inviting sales room.

Here, you’ll find a huge selection of flower, concentrates, edibles, and other marijuana-infused products. The bulk of their flower is naturally-grown indoors in their facility near Monaco and I-70, and they boast both recreational products and those with medicinal benefits. (Interesting fact: Flower grown indoors currently sells for around $1500 per pound — almost double the cost of that grown outdoors at $800 — due in part to the high costs of heating a facility.)

Those successful in the marijuana industry put in a good deal of hours, and Andrew and Dan are no exception. They each work upwards of 65 hours a week, dotting every “i” and crossing every “t” to ensure Green RiNo is in compliance with all industry aspects. (This includes remitting monthly sales taxes in the vicinity of $60,000!) They’re never too busy for a chat, though. Check them out when you're in the neighborhood!

Havey ProCinema, 3457 Ringsby Court

Did you know one of our members is a highly-awarded, documentary filmmaker? It’s true! And just days before the world as we knew it took a sharp left, I had a thoroughly enjoyable time chatting with Jim Havey of Havey ProCinema and getting a tour of their compact studio.

Jim moved here in 1973 from Chicago, with degrees in political science and sociology, and initially ran a group home in Jefferson County. At some point, he picked up a 35mm camera and the rest is history. Jim has been producing documentary films for 40 years now in Denver and loves the accessible nature of the genre — “I’m telling real stories.” Many of these are based on Colorado history, including films about Molly Brown, Union Station, downtown Denver, Colfax Avenue, and the Centennial Statehouse. Others explore environmental aspects. The soon-to-be-released documentary, Beyond Zero, focuses on a carpet manufacturing company that set — and achieved — a goal to have zero impact in 25 years.

Filmmaking isn’t an easy road, and fundraising is yeoman’s work. The Great Divide, which discusses the enormous amount of economic activity in America that’s dependent on rivers born in the mountains of Colorado, had 50 different sponsors alone. For this reason, Havey leans towards feature-length docs and larger/national shows to make the economics work. That said, they’re also delighted to offer their films for your home library. You can check out their catalogue here.

Imagination Library of Denver, 711 Park Avenue West

Did you know that 80% of a child’s brain is developed by age three? Or that in Colorado, 37% of children arrive at kindergarten without the skills necessary for lifelong learning (and this number is much higher in lower-income communities)? Imagination Library of Denver (IL) does. That’s why Globeville and Elyria-Swansea are a focus in their efforts. Imagination Library’s premise is simple: once a month, from birth to age five, a child enrolled in IL receives a high-quality, age-appropriate book in the mail. But they’re about more than delivering books – they hope to inspire a love of reading and foster home literacy practices.

IL is actually an affiliate of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and the Dollywood Foundation. Sara Randall heads up Denver’s branch, one of 2300 affiliates across the US and 24 in Colorado. She’s well-suited to the position, with a PR degree and experience in government affairs. These, coupled with her moxie, brought IL to our community: when she found out there wasn’t a branch in Denver, she rounded up a small team of volunteers, received non-profit status from the IRS, and opened their doors in 2015. That first year, they served 30 children. Today, they serve over 2000.

There is no income qualification, so any child under five may be easily enrolled in the program. If a child is enrolled at birth, a total of 60 books will be sent free-of-charge, including at least a dozen that are bi-lingual. The first book is always Dolly’s favorite, “The Little Engine That Could,” and the final one is, appropriately, “Lookout Kindergarten, Here I Come!” The rest of the library is selected by a committee each year, so books are constantly changing to keep things fresh.

JK Concepts, 3333 E. 52nd Avenue

As a woman-owned business with almost 40 years of success in the millwork and cabinetry industry, JK Concepts has consistently supplied schools, hospitals, libraries and other commercial buildings in Colorado with the highest quality products and materials.

From a small space on Adams and 53rd Avenue, they've grown to a facility with more than 38,000 square feet, which houses a specialized staff of about 65 engineers, project managers, production specialists, craftsmen and installers ready to handle an array of millwork and casework. JK Concepts is an FSC-Certified manufacturer that can follow all LEED project requirements, and their capabilities range from simple laminate casework to highly-detailed, architectural wood elements and solid surface fabrication.

Kiewit Meridiam Partners, 3543 E. 46th Avenue

Kiewit Meridiam Partners is synonymous with “I-70.” Indeed, practically everyone in the greater metro region and surrounding communities is familiar with the massive project to reconstruct 10 miles of I-70, between Brighton Boulevard and Chambers Road. Many folks have also met, or are at least familiar with the face of, Matt Sanman, Kiewit’s Public Information Manager, who’s been with the company for about eight years. Matt started with Kiewit in Littleton and was working in business development when his experience in a crisis simulation prompted him to seek a more challenging role. That path took him to Dallas for four years, where he cut his teeth on the 28-mile reconstruction of the Midway Express.

That same, proactive approach has been shown on the I-70 project. Prior to the start of construction, CDOT undertook a variety of mitigations, some quite visible — like the placement of temporary sound barriers between the neighborhood and the project (the one facing Swansea Elementary has panels created by 30 regional artists) — and others less observable, such as the installation of interior storm windows and the offer of portable AC units and utility assistance to approximately 290 households one block north and south of I-70, from Steel Street to Brighton Boulevard.

Despite some road bumps, the project is still on track to finish in 2022. In the meantime, there will be lots of opportunities to talk to Matt and his teammates. They’re an accessible bunch and are happy to meet you in the community or at their office.

Laradon, 5100 Lincoln Street

In 1948, at a time when the public school system denied an education to their two sons because they were “mentally retarded,” Joseph and Elizabeth Calabrese invested their life savings into the creation of a special school – Laradon. Named after their two sons, Larry and Don, Laradon was the first charitable organization in the Rocky Mountain region to offer support, education and training to children with developmental disabilities (from www. Laradon.org).

Fast-forward 73 years: the Laradon campus encompasses 10 acres and has approximately 250 staff serving 700 individuals. Many of their clients have been diagnosed with seizure disorder, autism, and anxiety disorder – among other diagnoses – so they have a wide range of programs in place. Their Family, Infant and Toddler Program serves ages 0-3; Sewall Preschool serves children ages 3-5, both with and without disabilities; the Calabrese Youth Center provides 24-hour residential treatment to those ages 11-18; and for adults, they offer day services, community living and employment programs.

Laradon serves more than its mission, though. CEO and visionary Doug McNeill is a firm believer in serving the Globeville community. In 2019, with affordable housing identified as an acute need, Laradon took an unused lot – 40% of its property at 51st and Lincoln – and engaged DeNoBA member Shopworks Architecture to design The Elisabetta, which has 91 units of affordable housing for those at up to 60% of the Area Median Income. The Stella came soon after, with 132 units; 16 are set aside for very low-income people with disabilities, including some who have experienced homelessness. In the near future, they’ll be partnering with the Denver Housing Authority to redevelop three more city blocks.

Want to support all of this goodness? Laradon is located in one of Denver’s Enterprise Zones, so contributions to their capital campaign or individual employment programs are eligible for a 25% tax credit from the State of Colorado.

Mile High Behavioral Healthcare, 4242 Delaware Street

For 60 years, Mile High Behavioral Healthcare has been dedicated to empowering individuals in shaping healthy, viable, complete lives. The care they provide is vital to those on the fringes of our community, including those with mental health and substance use issues; those experiencing homelessness; LGBTQ+, transgender and gender-expansive individuals; runaway youth; and, individuals returning to the community from incarceration.

Their home office is located in the Globeville neighborhood, where they offer behavioral healthcare and a variety of programs (e.g., individual, family and group counseling; relapse prevention and recovery services; healthy relationship training; life skills coaching; and, DUI education, among others). They also have a facility in Sheridan, where they offer integrated care and programs for transgender and gender-expansive individuals, along with shelter services and programs in Aurora. As a 501(c)3 non-profit, their funding sources are critical, and they’re supported through grants, Medicaid reimbursements, fundraising efforts and donations. Please support them here.

National Western Stock Show, 4655 Humboldt Street

Almost everyone in this part of the world knows of the National Western Stock Show. In 2020, it celebrated its 114th anniversary and welcomed almost 708K guests, the second highest attendance in its history. Do you know what happens at the National Western Complex the other 349 days, though?

Kyle Baun and Jen Edwards do. They make up half of the tiny team who are in charge of programming the complex the rest of the year. And program it they do! In 2019, there were over 200 events (not including the Stock Show), upwards of 600K guests, and only one dark weekend. Often, they have limited time to switch setups — as is the case with the Stock Show which is always followed by a motorcycle expo just three days later — so creativity and hustle are key. Chatting with these two, you get nothing but calm vibes, though. Kyle has been here for 20 years and previously worked for the Rockies, and Jen has been here eight years and worked for the Nuggets, so they’re used to the constant momentum. Too, about 85% of the events are recurring, so they know what to expect.

What they don’t know is what the future will hold. The National Western Center Authority will take over much of the programming in the near future, while Kyle and Jen will maintain the event schedule for the Legacy Building. However it shapes up, you can trust they’ll be ready!

Project Angel Heart, 4950 Washington Street

Walking in to Project Angel Heart's inspiring space, it's hard to know where to put your eyes — on the many beautiful ways they recognize donors, the various boards detailing the weekly meal plans and delivery routes, or the volunteers themselves, whose palpable energy encircles you like a hug. Suffice it to say, it's an amazing experience!

So is their history and mission. Project Angel Heart started in 1991, with a single pan of lasagna divided into 12 portions and delivered to 12 individuals with HIV/AIDS. Today, they continue to address a major challenge for Coloradans with life-threatening illnesses: getting the nutrition they need to get stronger, heal, and remain at home. Many are too sick to get to the grocery store or unable to cook for themselves; others find they have to choose whether to buy food or medication. To meet these needs, Project Angel Heart prepares and delivers medically-tailored meals, free-of-charge, to approximately 1200 households each week. (Yes, each week!)

Though this non-profit has a staff of almost 40 dedicated individuals, their reach is greatly enhanced by the support of approximately 8000 volunteers who provide a host of services, including prepping, packaging and delivering meals. (Fun fact: Volunteers adeptly hand-chop all vegetables. They even have an onion crew that chops 1000 pounds each week!) Want to get involved? Check out opportunities here.

Queen City Architectural Salvage, 4750 Brighton Boulevard

If you're looking for quality, antique pieces for your home, check out Queen City Architectural Salvage for an amazing collection of salvaged items. From doors and hardware to radiators to fireplaces, this is an antique hunter's paradise. Need a face lift? Queen City also offers sandblasting, resurfacing, metal stripping, restoration and demolition services.

Drop in M/F/Sa (check out the hours on the website) or make an appointment. Either way, you should plan to spend some time looking through Queen City's cache.

Shopworks Architecture, 301 W. 45th Avenue

Did you know we have a conscientious and community-supportive architecture firm as a member? We do! Shopworks Architecture is a bit newer to the neighborhood, having moved from LoHi to Globeville in 2018, but their passion for developing affordable housing in Denver continues.

You may know their name from the work they’ve been doing on the Laradon campus, including the Laradon School, in which they used “trauma-informed design” to create a place of dignity and joy for children with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities; and, The Elisabetta, which provides affordable housing and inspiring spaces to those who are at as low as 30% of the Area Median Income.

Indeed, inspired was how I felt after spending just a nugget of time with these good humans, who’ve clearly cultivated a welcoming and open working environment. When asked separately what the hardest part of COVID has been for them, their answers were in sync: “Not having the whole team around to freely collaborate.” Yes... many of us understand this sentiment. Together, we'll get through this.

Spark Dispensary, 3900 E. 48th Avenue

Did you know?

• When a retail marijuana cultivation facility is bought and transferred to a new owner, any flowering or vegetative plants must be killed.

• You can’t have two retail marijuana dispensaries within 1000’ of each other.

• Once a marijuana plant reaches 8”, a cultivation facility tags it with a serial number. These are then entered into a Colorado database, and the plant (and its genetic composition) is tracked until its depletion.

Joe Gira, owner of recreational and medical Spark Dispensary, is quite familiar with all of this and more! It’s been a bit of a learning curve for Joe, who worked in insurance prior to purchasing a license to run a dispensary at 10th and Federal in 2015. In the past five years, though, his knowledge has grown as quickly as his business, which was evident during my tour of Spark’s 5000 sq ft of grow rooms. (Their upscale, retail space has equally knowledgeable "budtenders" and a full menu of cannabis products.)

Spark isn’t just cultivating bud — they’re developing a culture of being good neighbors. Joe shared that it’s important to him to be supportive of their community, which was why he sought out the DeNo Business Association soon after moving to their new space. He also asked to be connected to GES neighborhood organizations to discuss food drives and the like, so if you have an idea he's eager to hear it!

Tepeyac Community Health Center, 4725 High Street

Tepeyac Community Health Center began serving the community 25 years ago, with a single, part-time person, an annual budget of $30,000 and a lot of volunteers who believed in its mission of inspiring health, well-being and humanity in the community. Today, there is a bilingual staff of almost 50 individuals and an annual operating budget of approximately $5M. The bulk of this money comes from grants, numbering in the vicinity of 45 (a good deal to manage!).

In 2015, Tepeyac was designated a Federally Qualified Health Center, which has since allowed them to receive funds from the Health Resources and Services Administration to provide healthcare in underserved areas. Importantly, this is “integrated care,” which means when clients come in for a doctor’s appointment, they also meet with a behavioral specialist and dental staff, greatly minimizing the time they need to spend making appointments and traveling to other locations.

In the near future, Tepeyac will even better serve our community when it moves into a new, state-of-the-art facility at 48th and Race Streets. The 30,000 square foot facility will offer medical, behavioral health, dental, pharmacy and health promotion services to an anticipated 11,000 medically underserved individuals.

Interested in supporting this 501(c)3 non-profit? Donate here.