GPHC Update: December 2012
I’ve lived in Park Hill for the last 5 1/2 years and I’ve been on the GPHC Board for the last year. I stepped into the Executive Director role just over a month ago, and I’m excited to share some of our current projects from a very busy season!
GPHC participated in the Dependable Cleaners Coats for Colorado Drive in November, receiving over 90 coats to distribute. Nearly half have already been given to families needing something warm for the winter. Some of the people we’ve helped include a multi-generational household of 9, including an expectant mother; a Grandmother raising 3 grandchildren on a fixed income; a 3-month-old baby; and a man who works outdoors and has been trying to make do with an undersized torn parka – he now has a durable insulated jacket that fits.
Pam Ford, who contacted us for coats on behalf of her 5 grandchildren and her daughter Crystal, said, “Thank God for you. I don’t know how we could have made it through the winter without this help for the kids.” Coats are still available by calling 303-388-0918 to set up an appointment.
There is a very definite need in our neighborhood for emergency assistance. I’ve received numerous calls for food, diapers, Christmas help, etc. The GPHC is an active information & referral center, connecting clients to helping programs when they fall beyond the scope of our services (e.g. utility aid) and signing them up wherever we can meet the need. We also try to connect volunteers with specific programs and projects.
With the help of several generous donors and the eager Brownies of Troop 1677, we were able to prepare Thanksgiving food boxes complete with turkeys, gravy, stuffing, pies, cranberry sauce, rolls and several traditional vegetable sides to serve over 50 people. We are also preparing for our Holiday Adopt-A-Family, gathering needs and gift suggestions for families of all kinds. If you or your group would like to sponsor children’s gifts and basic needs for a family, please call the GPHC at 303-388-0918. Please leave your contact information and the size of the family you think you can help, and we’ll match you up with someone in need.
We’ve launched a GPHC-specific Facebook page. Please “Like” us at facebook.com/GPHCDenver. This page will not attempt to duplicate the community announcements of our sister page at facebook.com/GreaterParkHillNews. Rather, the goal is to keep you updated on the activities of GPHC specifically as an organization and to share announcements about our monthly community meetings. Our goal is to increase communication and transparency as we seek to reopen our emergency food pantry for regular hours in the new year, and to otherwise continue to serve our community.
Lastly, I want to thank our GPHC Executive Committee and Board, who put in long hours without pay, to ensure that GPHC runs smoothly. They stay abreast of any City-wide or zoning issues affecting Park Hill, and take action accordingly. They scrutinize every expenditure to make sure it’s in the best interest of our donors and meets a need of our neighbors in Park Hill. We have amazing resources among our volunteer leadership, and you can feel very good about the stewardship of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. I hope you will consider joining – annual memberships start at as little as $20 for individuals/families.
I have been impressed by the openness and generosity of our neighbors. Thank you so much for your support as we work together to ensure our community remains a fantastic place to live. I am proud to live in Park Hill, and to be affiliated with GPHC. Happy Holidays!
Sincerely,
Robyn Fishman
Interim Executive Director