Pictured from left to right: Kat Lilley, Family Promise guest, Charisse Jordan
As the name implies, family is a recurring theme at Family Promise: the families who remain together during a time of crisis as they regain stability; the extended families guests and volunteers form through the close relationships they develop on their journey; even the family of Affiliates that support one another as they strive to keep children and parents housed and self-sufficient.
Family Promise Affiliates in Colorado Springs and Denver recently tapped those family ties to help a Denver household get back on its feet.
“We had a family who desperately needed a vehicle,” explains Family Promise of Greater Denver Diversion Specialist Charisse Jordan, who helps families on the verge of homelessness avoid the shelter system so they can focus on case management, education, and more to regain independence. “[The] mom’s car, which she relied on for work, died. Without a car, mom’s job – and the family’s stability – was in jeopardy.”
Jordan recalled a recent regional Family Promise staff meeting where Affiliates had shared updates, challenges, and advice. She’d learned of the vehicle loaner program at Family Promise of Colorado Springs and the generous donor who ensures every family in need of transportation receives a vehicle if they can sustain it.
“I figured it’d be a long shot, but I contacted (Colorado Springs Deputy Director) Kat Lilley,” Jordan recalls. “You never know!”
Lilley’s response was music to Jordan’s ears.
“We can do this!” Lilley said.
As it happened, Family Promise of Colorado Springs had an extra vehicle in its fleet.
“It came together easily,” says Lilley. “And when the family picked up their new car, we got to meet them and send them on their way!”
Affiliates share more than the Family Promise name, Lilley observes, stating, “We all work together on behalf of the families we serve.”
Jordan agrees and adds, “Obviously, Affiliates share the same mission – keeping families housed. But on top of that, we share information and experiences so we can serve our families in the best way possible.”
