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Upcoming Event June 26: Wall of Fame 2025
Join us at the Wall of Fame 2025: Honoring the bright lights within our community who inspire and lead the way
We are thrilled to welcome you to the 2025 Wall of Fame celebration! With deep gratitude, we come together once again to honor your generosity, celebrate the achievements of our residents, and reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made at Friends of DHA and the Denver Housing Authority.
This year’s event will take place on June 26th at Mile High Station, a venue rich in history and character. As we gather, we look forward to sharing the impactful projects transforming our communities and the inspiring stories of those whose lives have been changed.
Our outstanding residents shine as beacons of hope and progress. This year, at Mile High Station, we come together to illuminate their contributions, celebrating the powerful impact they make in our communities. Their resilience, hard work, and dedication remind us why we continue to push forward in our mission.
Your support fuels initiatives that promote digital inclusion, healthy living, economic self-sufficiency, youth development, and strong community bonds—the heart of everything we do.
By purchasing a ticket or sponsorship, you consent to having your photograph taken and used for marketing or promotional purposes by the Denver Housing Authority and Friends of DHA.
Together, let’s make the 2025 Wall of Fame a powerful tribute to the impact we create as a community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Purchase sponsorship at the link below.
We are thrilled to welcome you to the 2025 Wall of Fame celebration! With deep gratitude, we come together once again to honor your generosity, celebrate the achievements of our residents, and reflect on the incredible strides we’ve made at Friends of DHA and the Denver Housing Authority.
This year’s event will take place on June 26th at Mile High Station, a venue rich in history and character. As we gather, we look forward to sharing the impactful projects transforming our communities and the inspiring stories of those whose lives have been changed.
Our outstanding residents shine as beacons of hope and progress. This year, at Mile High Station, we come together to illuminate their contributions, celebrating the powerful impact they make in our communities. Their resilience, hard work, and dedication remind us why we continue to push forward in our mission.
Your support fuels initiatives that promote digital inclusion, healthy living, economic self-sufficiency, youth development, and strong community bonds—the heart of everything we do.
By purchasing a ticket or sponsorship, you consent to having your photograph taken and used for marketing or promotional purposes by the Denver Housing Authority and Friends of DHA.
Together, let’s make the 2025 Wall of Fame a powerful tribute to the impact we create as a community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Purchase sponsorship at the link below.
Upcoming Event May 17-18 - Denver Colfax Marathon
Friends of DHA is proud to be a charity partner for the Denver Colfax Marathon on May 17-18! This annual event supports local nonprofits, and we’re excited to be part of the race weekend.
Stop by our charity booth during race weekend to learn more about our work in youth development, economic self-sufficiency, healthy living, digital inclusion, and community building.
Sign up for the marathon, half marathon, 10-miler, 5K, or relay race and choose Friends of DHA as your charity partner. Every step you take helps us continue our mission. Register today at runcolfax.org.
Support Without Running
Not running or walking? You can still support our mission by making a donation. Your contribution helps us expand our programs and services for the Denver community. Donate today by clicking the "Donate" button on our website.
Join us in making a difference—whether by racing, cheering, or giving. We look forward to seeing you at the Denver Colfax Marathon on May 17-18!
Stop by our charity booth during race weekend to learn more about our work in youth development, economic self-sufficiency, healthy living, digital inclusion, and community building.
Sign up for the marathon, half marathon, 10-miler, 5K, or relay race and choose Friends of DHA as your charity partner. Every step you take helps us continue our mission. Register today at runcolfax.org.
Support Without Running
Not running or walking? You can still support our mission by making a donation. Your contribution helps us expand our programs and services for the Denver community. Donate today by clicking the "Donate" button on our website.
Join us in making a difference—whether by racing, cheering, or giving. We look forward to seeing you at the Denver Colfax Marathon on May 17-18!
Press - Friends of DHA Announces New Leadership Appointments
"Friends of DHA, the nonprofit affiliate of the Denver Housing Authority (DHA), announced the appointment of three new officers to its Board of Directors today: Joaquin Cintrón Vega as chair, Anton Bengtson as vice chair, and Christine Burbidge as treasurer.
Joaquin Cintrón Vega, CEO of the Denver Housing Authority, is a seasoned leader in affordable housing and community-focused development. He brings a deep commitment to equitable housing solutions and expanding opportunities for DHA residents.
'Friends of DHA makes a real difference in the lives of the people we serve, helping individuals and families gain the support they need to build a better future,' said Cintrón Vega. 'I’m honored to step into this role as chair and help strengthen the impact of this work. By expanding access to vital programs and resources, we can open more doors for residents to achieve independence and stability.'
As Vice Chair, Anton Bengtson brings a background in financial management and strategic planning, which will be instrumental in driving sustainable growth and impactful community programs. His passion lies in creating attainable, healthy places that emphasize resource conservation, walkability, and access to multiple modes of transit, reinforcing his commitment to shaping communities that support economic mobility and quality of life.
Christine Burbidge, stepping into the role of treasurer, will oversee financial stewardship to ensure responsible management of resources that further Friends of DHA’s mission. With extensive experience in accounting for governmental and nonprofit organizations, along with deep institutional knowledge of DHA, she is committed to strengthening the board’s financial strategy and supporting Friends of DHA’s long-term sustainability.
'We’re excited to have Joaquin, Anton, and Chris step into these leadership roles,' said Annie Hancock, executive director of Friends of DHA. 'Their passion and experience in affordable housing will be invaluable as we continue to grow our efforts and support more residents in building stable, independent futures.'"
Joaquin Cintrón Vega, CEO of the Denver Housing Authority, is a seasoned leader in affordable housing and community-focused development. He brings a deep commitment to equitable housing solutions and expanding opportunities for DHA residents.
'Friends of DHA makes a real difference in the lives of the people we serve, helping individuals and families gain the support they need to build a better future,' said Cintrón Vega. 'I’m honored to step into this role as chair and help strengthen the impact of this work. By expanding access to vital programs and resources, we can open more doors for residents to achieve independence and stability.'
As Vice Chair, Anton Bengtson brings a background in financial management and strategic planning, which will be instrumental in driving sustainable growth and impactful community programs. His passion lies in creating attainable, healthy places that emphasize resource conservation, walkability, and access to multiple modes of transit, reinforcing his commitment to shaping communities that support economic mobility and quality of life.
Christine Burbidge, stepping into the role of treasurer, will oversee financial stewardship to ensure responsible management of resources that further Friends of DHA’s mission. With extensive experience in accounting for governmental and nonprofit organizations, along with deep institutional knowledge of DHA, she is committed to strengthening the board’s financial strategy and supporting Friends of DHA’s long-term sustainability.
'We’re excited to have Joaquin, Anton, and Chris step into these leadership roles,' said Annie Hancock, executive director of Friends of DHA. 'Their passion and experience in affordable housing will be invaluable as we continue to grow our efforts and support more residents in building stable, independent futures.'"
Event Press - Senior Ball 2024
"Senior Ball Fosters Connection and Joy for Denver’s Aging-in-Place Community
Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and Friends of DHA recently hosted a Senior Ball honoring older adults (50+) where 200 older adults gathered for an evening of celebration, laughter, and companionship. The Senior Ball is a cornerstone of Friends of DHA’s efforts to combat loneliness and isolation in the aging population—key factors that affect the health and happiness of many older adults.
"The Senior Ball is about much more than just dancing and dining. It's about providing residents with the opportunity to engage, socialize, and build relationships," said Annie Hancock, Executive Director, Friends of DHA. "We know that strong social connections are vital to healthy aging, and this event is a joyful way we help nurture those connections."
We’re grateful for the support from Platinum Sponsor American Mechanical Services (AMS), whose contributions ensured the evening was a grand success. AMS has been a longstanding partner in supporting community initiatives, and their involvement at the Senior Ball reinforced their commitment to enhancing the lives of Denver’s aging population.
The Gold Sponsor, Innovage, also played a role in making the event possible. Innovage's mission is to provide aging adults with the support they need to live independently; their dedication to senior care is evident in their active involvement in community events like our Senior Ball."
Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and Friends of DHA recently hosted a Senior Ball honoring older adults (50+) where 200 older adults gathered for an evening of celebration, laughter, and companionship. The Senior Ball is a cornerstone of Friends of DHA’s efforts to combat loneliness and isolation in the aging population—key factors that affect the health and happiness of many older adults.
"The Senior Ball is about much more than just dancing and dining. It's about providing residents with the opportunity to engage, socialize, and build relationships," said Annie Hancock, Executive Director, Friends of DHA. "We know that strong social connections are vital to healthy aging, and this event is a joyful way we help nurture those connections."
We’re grateful for the support from Platinum Sponsor American Mechanical Services (AMS), whose contributions ensured the evening was a grand success. AMS has been a longstanding partner in supporting community initiatives, and their involvement at the Senior Ball reinforced their commitment to enhancing the lives of Denver’s aging population.
The Gold Sponsor, Innovage, also played a role in making the event possible. Innovage's mission is to provide aging adults with the support they need to live independently; their dedication to senior care is evident in their active involvement in community events like our Senior Ball."
Senior Ball 2024
On October 17th, Friends of DHA supported the annual Senior Ball—a night filled with laughter, music, and joy for 200 of Denver’s older adults. Beyond the dancing and dinner, this event brings together residents to combat social isolation, promote emotional well-being, and strengthen connections that are key to healthy aging.
A huge thank you to the Platinum Sponsor, American Mechanical Services (AMS), and Gold Sponsor, Innovage, for their support in making this event a success!
A huge thank you to the Platinum Sponsor, American Mechanical Services (AMS), and Gold Sponsor, Innovage, for their support in making this event a success!
Event Press - ESS Summit
Denver Housing Authority Hosts Economic Empowerment Summit
"DENVER – Monday, August 5, 2024 – The Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and its nonprofit arm, Friends of DHA, announced today that a two-day Economic Empowerment Summit, dedicated to equipping low-income DHA and Denver residents with essential financial management skills, career tools, and homeownership opportunities, will be held September 5 and September 12, 2024.
Annie Hancock, DHA director of resident and community connections and Executive Director of Friends of DHA commented on the importance of the summit: 'The Economic Empowerment Summit is a vital initiative that underscores our commitment to uplifting our community. By providing access to essential resources and tools, we empower individuals to achieve financial stability and success in their careers and homeownership journeys.'
The summit will begin with a virtual event on September 5, 2024 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. featuring workshops on financial literacy, job readiness training, and homebuyer education. Participants can register for the virtual event here: web.cvent.com/event/be5bc06f-327b-45d6-8525-c1aa791dd523/regProcessStep1.
The event will culminate in an in-person resource fair on September 12, 2024 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. at 1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with community partners offering free employment, financial, and homeownership tools and resources. Additionally, there will be a clothing drive providing new and gently used adult professional attire, free of charge, to support job seekers in their interview preparations. The resource fair is free and open to the public, with no registration required.
To help and contribute as a sponsor, please visit denverhousing.networkforgood.com/projects/229405-2024-economic-empowerment-summit.
About Friends of DHA: Friends of DHA is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the mission of the Denver Housing Authority by providing essential resources, funding, and advocacy to support vibrant, equitable communities. Through board leadership and impactful fundraising, Friends of DHA creates pathways to empower residents and foster lasting positive change.
Denver Housing Authority
DHA's mission is to serve the residents of Denver by developing, owning, and operating safe, decent, and affordable housing in a manner that promotes thriving communities. It is a quasi-municipal corporation with a portfolio of over 13,000 units and housing choice vouchers, providing affordable housing to more than 27,000 very low, low, and middle-income individuals. DHA has been creating vibrant communities and sustainable neighborhoods since 1938."
"DENVER – Monday, August 5, 2024 – The Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and its nonprofit arm, Friends of DHA, announced today that a two-day Economic Empowerment Summit, dedicated to equipping low-income DHA and Denver residents with essential financial management skills, career tools, and homeownership opportunities, will be held September 5 and September 12, 2024.
Annie Hancock, DHA director of resident and community connections and Executive Director of Friends of DHA commented on the importance of the summit: 'The Economic Empowerment Summit is a vital initiative that underscores our commitment to uplifting our community. By providing access to essential resources and tools, we empower individuals to achieve financial stability and success in their careers and homeownership journeys.'
The summit will begin with a virtual event on September 5, 2024 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. featuring workshops on financial literacy, job readiness training, and homebuyer education. Participants can register for the virtual event here: web.cvent.com/event/be5bc06f-327b-45d6-8525-c1aa791dd523/regProcessStep1.
The event will culminate in an in-person resource fair on September 12, 2024 from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. at 1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with community partners offering free employment, financial, and homeownership tools and resources. Additionally, there will be a clothing drive providing new and gently used adult professional attire, free of charge, to support job seekers in their interview preparations. The resource fair is free and open to the public, with no registration required.
To help and contribute as a sponsor, please visit denverhousing.networkforgood.com/projects/229405-2024-economic-empowerment-summit.
About Friends of DHA: Friends of DHA is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing the mission of the Denver Housing Authority by providing essential resources, funding, and advocacy to support vibrant, equitable communities. Through board leadership and impactful fundraising, Friends of DHA creates pathways to empower residents and foster lasting positive change.
Denver Housing Authority
DHA's mission is to serve the residents of Denver by developing, owning, and operating safe, decent, and affordable housing in a manner that promotes thriving communities. It is a quasi-municipal corporation with a portfolio of over 13,000 units and housing choice vouchers, providing affordable housing to more than 27,000 very low, low, and middle-income individuals. DHA has been creating vibrant communities and sustainable neighborhoods since 1938."
Upcoming Event - Economic Empowerment Summit
Join us for the Economic Empowerment Summit! Gain the skills and resources you need to boost your career, manage finances, and even become a homeowner.
Sept 5th: Virtual Event: Time: 2:00-6:00PM
Workshops: Financial literacy, job readiness training, and homebuyer education.
Registration: Must register to attend. Scan the QR code to register or call Denise Beasley at 720.956.3801.
Sept 12th: In-Person Resource Fair:
Time: 2:00-6:00PM
Location: 1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
Resources: Connect with community partners offering free employment, financial, and homeownership tools and resources.
Clothing Drive: Free, professional attire to support job search and interview preparation.
Registration: The resource fair is free and open to the public. Attendees do not need to register to participate.
These events are free and open to the public!
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your personal and professional growth with valuable resources and support.
At the in-person Resource Fair on September 12th, we will offer new and gently used adult professional clothing and shoes free of charge, helping job seekers find the perfect interview outfits to make a great first impression.
1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
Sept 5th: Virtual Event: Time: 2:00-6:00PM
Workshops: Financial literacy, job readiness training, and homebuyer education.
Registration: Must register to attend. Scan the QR code to register or call Denise Beasley at 720.956.3801.
Sept 12th: In-Person Resource Fair:
Time: 2:00-6:00PM
Location: 1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
Resources: Connect with community partners offering free employment, financial, and homeownership tools and resources.
Clothing Drive: Free, professional attire to support job search and interview preparation.
Registration: The resource fair is free and open to the public. Attendees do not need to register to participate.
These events are free and open to the public!
Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your personal and professional growth with valuable resources and support.
At the in-person Resource Fair on September 12th, we will offer new and gently used adult professional clothing and shoes free of charge, helping job seekers find the perfect interview outfits to make a great first impression.
1035 Osage St, Denver, CO 80204
Event Press: Wall of Fame 2024 and the Denver Colfax Marathon
"Denver Housing Authority (DHA) and its nonprofit arm, Friends of DHA, has announced that more than $85,000 was raised to benefit resident services at the annual Wall of Fame fundraiser on May 9, 2024. The funds will be directed toward the core focus areas of youth development, economic self-sufficiency, healthy living, digital inclusion, and community building. In addition, Friends of DHA participated in the Denver Colfax Marathon’s Charity Partners Program and was recognized as one of the top charity booths winning a $250 prize and the chance to be chosen by top marathon relay teams for thousands of dollars in additional donations.
“We are grateful to everyone who supported the Wall of Fame fundraiser and visited our booth at the Colfax Marathon,” Annie Hancock, executive director of Friends of DHA, said. “The funds raised from both events will make a tremendous impact on DHA residents, providing essential services and opportunities for growth and success.”
The Wall of Fame event and Denver’s Colfax Marathon generated significant financial support and heightened awareness of Friends of DHA whose mission is dedicated to empowering low-income families and individuals, guiding them towards self-sufficiency and independent living.
Read the full article here:
“We are grateful to everyone who supported the Wall of Fame fundraiser and visited our booth at the Colfax Marathon,” Annie Hancock, executive director of Friends of DHA, said. “The funds raised from both events will make a tremendous impact on DHA residents, providing essential services and opportunities for growth and success.”
The Wall of Fame event and Denver’s Colfax Marathon generated significant financial support and heightened awareness of Friends of DHA whose mission is dedicated to empowering low-income families and individuals, guiding them towards self-sufficiency and independent living.
Read the full article here:
2024 Wall of Fame Honorees
We proudly honored four outstanding residents whose achievements inspire us all. Watch their stories at the link below:
Press: Next With Kyle Clark
Kyle Clark's unwavering support shines a light on Friends of DHA's mission. We're deeply grateful for his dedication to spreading awareness and educating others about our cause.
Watch here:
Watch here:
Press: Sidewalk Repair Funding
"DENVER — A 75-year-old woman who uses a wheelchair to get around the city is the person behind the pitch for $400,000 in sidewalk repairs in her neighborhood.
Phyllis Mack has to negotiate her safety every time she leaves her home. The sidewalks around her home are often too narrow, or too damaged to safely maneuver her wheelchair. It's even more treacherous after snow.
Frequently, Mack ends up using the street to travel, instead.
“They need to be widened and smoothed,” she said about the sidewalks in her Athmar Park neighborhood. “So I don’t have to go out into the street and get hit by a car.”
Mack lives in Walsh Manor, a Denver Housing Authority property for seniors and people with disabilities. She’s not the only one struggling to get around in this neighborhood..."
Full Article Here:
Phyllis Mack has to negotiate her safety every time she leaves her home. The sidewalks around her home are often too narrow, or too damaged to safely maneuver her wheelchair. It's even more treacherous after snow.
Frequently, Mack ends up using the street to travel, instead.
“They need to be widened and smoothed,” she said about the sidewalks in her Athmar Park neighborhood. “So I don’t have to go out into the street and get hit by a car.”
Mack lives in Walsh Manor, a Denver Housing Authority property for seniors and people with disabilities. She’s not the only one struggling to get around in this neighborhood..."
Full Article Here:
Press: Digital Inclusion Efforts Awarded $125,000
"Friends of DHA is one of five Colorado agencies selected to receive national grant funding
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it has selected Denver Community Ventures - dba Friends of DHA, as one of five agencies in Colorado to receive a grant in the amount of $125,000 grant pursuant to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
“ACP directly influences Denver Housing Authority (DHA) families in desperate need of digital access,” Annie Hancock, Director of Resident and Community Connections said. “The provision of affordable internet through the ACP is the first step to help DHA residents remain in communication compliance for federal and state benefit updates, job applications, online school, and health care telehealth models.”
These FCC Funds will be utilized to conduct digital campaigns, door-to-door canvassing, operate phone banks, distribute direct mail, and host ACP application enrollment and outreach events. This funding is a major opportunity to move forward Friends of DHA’s digital inclusion plan."
Read the full article below:
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it has selected Denver Community Ventures - dba Friends of DHA, as one of five agencies in Colorado to receive a grant in the amount of $125,000 grant pursuant to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
“ACP directly influences Denver Housing Authority (DHA) families in desperate need of digital access,” Annie Hancock, Director of Resident and Community Connections said. “The provision of affordable internet through the ACP is the first step to help DHA residents remain in communication compliance for federal and state benefit updates, job applications, online school, and health care telehealth models.”
These FCC Funds will be utilized to conduct digital campaigns, door-to-door canvassing, operate phone banks, distribute direct mail, and host ACP application enrollment and outreach events. This funding is a major opportunity to move forward Friends of DHA’s digital inclusion plan."
Read the full article below:
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