Last summer, our Colfax Works program began with a pilot. Thanks to the overwhelming support from our business and property owners, residents, and with financial support from Denver Human Services and The Denver Foundation, we’re thrilled that Colfax Works has turned into a year-round program for our district, providing employment, supportive services, and transitional housing for those experiencing or emerging from homelessness.
Already, two of our crew members have graduated into their own independent housing and careers. Can you help others who are ready to graduate from the program with an affordable apartment or full-time job? If so, contact Michelle at michelle@colfaxave.com.
All of this is possible because of our non-profit partner, Ready to Work (RTW). Ready to Work provides adults experiencing homelessness a unique opportunity to rebuild their lives through work. Their holistic approach combines three elements – paid work, dormitory housing at the Ready to Work House, and wraparound supportive services. They have a fantastic success rate of 74%.
We will be honest and enthusiastic references for the folks on the Colfax Works crew. They have been working hard both on Colfax and in the RTW house. In addition to working five days per week, crew members are taking employment classes, working one-on-one with a dedicated case manager, paying rent, and putting funds towards a savings account. Ready to Work is the first stepping stone to self-sufficiency, and now our crew members are ready to start searching for full-time employment and independent housing upon graduation from the Ready to Work program.
Most of our crew members have warehouse, construction, custodial, data entry, clerical, and laborer backgrounds. As their employer for the last eight months, we can attest to their relentless work ethic, upbeat attitude, ambition, and desire to contribute to the community.
Another way you can help is by sharing this post with anyone and everyone you know. Our crew has given a lot to Colfax, and our goal is to connect every single one of them with a full-time job upon graduation.