SEPTEMBER 2026
AvidLifestyle.com
CELEBRATING COLORADO’S
HISPANIC HERITAGE South Denver stories of traditions, entrepreneurship, and community leadership
Driven by Generosity
Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience gets a new home SEPTEMBER 2026 | $8.95
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You belong at Lorton’s
//
CONTENTS September 2026 PHOTO: JENNA GALLAS
departments
10 12 16
setting the stage
20 28
stylish living
PHOTO: JENNA GALLAS
50 50 54
32
Driven by Generosity
The 6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience returns with a spectacular new venue, extraordinary cars, gourmet food, live entertainment, and an evening designed to make a difference for Colorado families. By Heather Shoning
40
Celebrating Colorado’s Hispanic Heritage
Hispanic Heritage Month comes to life through three South Denver stories rooted in tradition, entrepreneurship, and community. Meet the people preserving Colombian craftsmanship, sharing Mexican food and hospitality, and creating greater access to resources for Latino-led organizations across Colorado. By Lexi Marshall
ON THE COVER: CELEBRATING COLORADO’S HISPANIC HERITAGE, PAGE 40 PHOTO: COURTESY ADELANTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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58 62
WORTH THE EXPERIENCE By Heather Shoning
local flavors BREAKING BREAD IN BRECK Five new bars and restaurants to try By Lisa Blake
healthy living BIOHACKING Optimizing health and longevity with a thoughtful treatment regimen By Lexi Marshall
FALL FASHION FINDS IN CASTLE ROCK Everything you need to know to dress for the season By Amanda Lacey BOUGIE LOOS Statement-making materials for spaces designed around the rituals of everyday life By Heather Shoning
wayfarers 12 HOURS IN MANITOU SPRINGS A day trip worth the drive By Lisa Blake
society & culture FULLCIRCLE Meet the Colorado nonprofit helping teens and young adults struggling with substance use and mental health challenges find connection, purpose, and a path forward—while giving their families the support to navigate recovery alongside them. By Heather Shoning BEYOND THE CLASSROOM From STEM mentorships to a student mission trip in South Africa, Shandra Pankoski creates meaningful opportunities for Valor Christian students By Kristi Sellers
can’t-miss events ON THE AGENDA Honey Festival, Jazz in the Park, Affordable Arts Festival, and more
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September 2026 // vol. 8 // no. 6 PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER Allen J. Walters SALES, MARKETING & ADVERTISING VP OF SALES & MARKETING Lori Perry
TEAM Alana Kaiser,
Personal Banker
Alana was born in Brazil and moved to Colorado five years ago without speaking a word of English. Today, she proudly calls Colorado home and you would never know that English was a new language for her. Alana earned her MBA in Business Management. She enjoys building meaningful relationships and helping clients achieve their financial goals. Outside of work, Alana enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband and dogs, and exploring Colorado. Lookout Mountain in Golden is her favorite!
Tyler Sands, Relationship Banking Officer
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sally Archibald Brad Butler Minda Carmann CREATIVE DIRECTOR Chris DeConna VP OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND GOLF OPERATIONS Michael T. Colander ART & EDITORIAL EDITOR Heather Shoning ART DIRECTOR Michelle M. Gutierrez COLORADO AVIDGOLFER EDITOR Jim Bebbington DIGITAL MARKETING ASSISTANT Carson Griggs ADMINISTRATION ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Nikki Bell CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Blake Isaac Bouchard Amanda Lacey Lexi Marshall Kristi Sellers
Tyler is from Missouri and moved to Colorado in 2025 with his wife to be closer to family. He has been with Central Bank for five years. He appreciates the relationship-based approach that we take with banking; focusing on being the primary banker for our clients, rather than just selling products and services. Tyler loves the beautiful scenery in Colorado and all of the outdoor activities, such as golf, hiking, and fishing. MEMBER FDIC 8
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
CONTACT Advertising Inquiries: allen@coloradoavidgolfer.com Editorial Inquiries and Letters: heather@avidlifestyle.com Customer Service: 720.493.1729 Mailing Address: 9350 E. Arapahoe Road, #210 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 AvidLifestyle (ISSN 2642-0562) is published twelve times a year by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC, and printed by Publication Printers Inc. 9350 E. Arapahoe Road, #210, Greenwood Village, CO 80112. Order your personal subscription to AvidLifestyle at avidlifestyle.com or by calling 720.493.1729. Subscriptions are available at the rate of $12 per year. Copyright © 2026 by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to AvidLifestyle, 9350 E. Arapahoe Road, #210, Greenwood Village, CO 80112. The magazine welcomes editorial submissions but assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or other material.
CRAFTED BY
SETTING THE STAGE
PHOTO: VANESSA MIRANDA
// editor’s letter
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WORTH THE EXPERIENCE
SEPTEMBER PULLS US BACK into the world. Summer’s looser rhythms give way to fuller calendars, cooler evenings, and plenty of reasons to get out, explore, and enjoy what South Denver has to offer.
John Pavlakovich
NMLSR ID: 801982 Executive Mortgage Consultant Cell: 720-308-2507 John.Pavlakovich@phmloans.com JohnPavlakovich.phmloans.com 215 Saint Paul St, Denver, CO 80206
This month, that starts with two stories connected to our 6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience (Driven By Generosity, page 32). The event moves to The Franciscan Event Center this year, where extraordinary cars, food, entertainment, and philanthropy come together for one memorable evening. We also take a closer look at FullCircle (page 54), the event’s beneficiary, and the work it is doing to support young people struggling with substance use and mental health challenges—and the families navigating those challenges alongside them. We’re also celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month (Celebrating Colorado’s Hispanic Heritage, page 40) through three distinctly Colorado stories of entrepreneurship, tradition, and community leadership—from sisters carrying Colombian craft traditions into their growing local business to a Parker restaurateur sharing the flavors and hospitality of his heritage and an organization working to expand access to capital for Latino-led communities.
And with a new season comes the perfect excuse to rethink what’s hanging in the closet. Fall Fashion Finds in Castle Rock (page 20) looks at the colors, textures, and silhouettes defining the season, along with smart ways to refresh what you already own. From rich chocolate brown and plum to playful knits, polished layers, and statement accessories, consider it inspiration for stepping into fall with a little more style. Here’s to a September filled with new experiences, fresh inspiration, and plenty of reasons to enjoy the changing season.
©2026 Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. (877) 275-1762. 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 600, Fairfax, VA 22031. All first mortgage products are provided by Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. Not all mortgage products may be available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify. NMLS ID #75164 (For licensing information go to: NMLS Consumer Access at http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Licensed by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner. Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee. Massachusetts Mortgage Lender and Mortgage Broker MC75164. Licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance. Licensed Mortgage Banker-NYS Department of Financial Services. Rhode Island Licensed Lender. Rhode Island Licensed Loan Broker. Rhode Island Licensed Third-Party Loan Servicer. Also licensed in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV and WY. #MC241014 Expires 12/2026
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Of course, a good life should leave room for a little indulgence, too. Bougie Loos (page 28) explores bathrooms elevated far beyond the purely practical, with exceptional materials, thoughtful design, and technology that can turn a morning routine into something decidedly more luxurious. Writer Lexi Marshall introduces us to the growing world of wellness treatments across South Denver (Biohacking, page 16), from infrared saunas and red light to compression and cryotherapy, with an eye toward what these therapies can—and can’t—do. We’re excited to introduce the new AvidLifestyle Digital Pass, a free digital passport that unlocks exclusive savings and offers from businesses throughout our community. From local restaurants and entertainment to shopping, services, and experiences, it’s designed to help you discover more of what makes this area special while supporting the businesses that help define it. We invite you to explore the pass and start taking advantage of the growing list of local offers. avidlifestyle.com/digital-pass Watch for this icon throughout the magazine signifying AvidLifestyle Digital Pass partners.
Heather Shoning
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September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
MAKE TIME FOR
RESTORATION
GARDEN OF THE GODS
Book a relaxing spa getaway at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club. Experience restorative yoga, sound baths, and revitalizing spa treatments designed to help you recharge and reset with a front row seat to the best view in Colorado.
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SCAN TO LEARN MORE
LOCAL FLAVORS
// dining roundup Forage
Breaking Bread in Breck Five new bars and restaurants to try By Lisa Blake
BRECKENRIDGE IS ENJOYING a restaurant renaissance with innovative chefs reshaping a once-stale, touristy pizza-and-burgers landscape. This new wave has introduced ingredient-driven menus, elevated coastal and Italian dining, and contemporary chef counters. The slow transition has polished the mountain town into a destination fit for discerning diners. Indulge in five new spots this season, digging into French pastries, modern underground Mexican, foraged Colorado fare, speakeasy Scotch and cheese pairings, and gourmet food truck desserts. THREEFOLD BAKERY 100 N. MAIN ST. #214 threefoldbreck.com After wowing foodies with artful Coloradodriven plates at Rootstalk and scratch Italian at Radicato—all while notching his first James Beard Award—hometown culinary celeb Matt Vawter opened a third Breckenridge restaurant in December. Vawter’s newest venture focuses on approachable pastries, house-made sourdough, and artisan grab-and-go sandwiches.
The basement restaurant is kid-friendly by day with tasty tacos and a cast-iron Mexican hot chocolate chip cookie served with local Higgles ice cream. After dark, it’s a party with DJs spinning vinyl, grown-up dishes like quesabirria and barbacoa enchiladas flying out of the kitchen, and bartenders slinging spicy margaritas and nitro espresso martinis made with chocolate-milk-washed mezcal. 12
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
FORAGE 322A N. MAIN ST. foragebreckenridge.com Situated in a humble Victorian home on the northern edge of downtown, long-awaited Forage opened in June, promising a Michelinlevel experience built around Colorado ingredients. The 12-course tasting menu leans heavily on sustainable Colorado trout, beef, and bison, with generous nods to the Centennial State’s mining and agricultural roots. Each seating invites 16 guests to settle into velvety armchairs around a U-shaped wooden table, where every carefully designed plate arrives as a work of edible art. The decor is meant to emanate a deep-wood feel that pairs perfectly with seasonal menus. Expect a whimsical, three-hour, communal epicurean journey where ingredients from Palisade to Steamboat take on jaw-dropping forms that are almost too pretty to eat. Almost.
PHOTO: COURTESY FORAGE
Threefold Bakery is a partnership between Vawter and his former colleagues, Californiabased chefs Sean and Melissa McGaughey, who own and operate Healdsburg, California’s nationally acclaimed Quail & Condor bakery. The trio has perfected long-fermented naturally leavened sourdough bread and authentic French pastries. Creative croissants and iced muffins, scones, and cookies fill the morning menu before switching over to gourmet Parisian-style sandwiches. Don’t miss the French butter–laminated pain au chocolat and the sugary, rich kouign-amann with a precisely poured Huckleberry Roasters espresso.
EL PERRO NEGRO 216 S. MAIN ST. #1 elperronegrobreck.com Dip into this new Mexican-inspired cocktail bar for a genuine agave-forward libation. El Perro Negro focuses on Mexican gin, whiskey, rum, cane spirits, and agave, with an impressive lineup of small-batch favorites and rare finds. Owner and mezcal aficionado Joe Vandal brings elements of Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara to adventurous highballs, frozen daiquiris, and unexpected martinis.
GLOBAL DINING Plan your next dining experience with Aurora Eats — a guide to the city’s vibrant and culturally diverse food scene and features 500+ locally owned restaurants and markets.
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LOCAL FLAVORS
// dining roundup Chalet Breckenridge
Breckenridge restaurateur Terry Barbu opened Chalet Breckenridge in December and says the concept is meant to give the over-30 crowd a classy, casual space for a post-dinner nightcap. As the evening progresses, the DJ shifts from Sinatra to house beats and a younger crowd files in for a club experience where the furniture begs to be danced on. The Chalet menu is designed for upscale après-ski nibbling and consists of shareable bites like herbed Greek olives, figgy brie, and pimento cheese dip alongside charcuterie boards. Rich, oaky Scotch and bold sherry sips pair perfectly with a selection of creamy, nutty, and sharp cheeses.
PHOTO: COURTESY CHALET BRECKENRIDGE
CHALET BRECKENRIDGE 500 S. MAIN ST., UNITS H–J chaletbreckenridge.com Breckenridge has a new speakeasy lounge— don’t worry, it’s not too difficult to find; just look for the faux Japanese candy shop storefront on the south end of Main Street. The interior design alone is worth a pop by. Stoic Chesterfield sofas, gold sconces, taxidermy (there’s a full bear skin rug in front of the stone fireplace), leather, plaid, and digitized local art with QR codes to purchase originals all share space in the dimly lit lounge.
Threefold Bakery
PHOTO: COURTESY THREEFOLD BAKERY
El Perro Negro
PHOTO: COURTESY EL PERRO NEGRO
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LOCAL FLAVORS
// dining roundup
PHOTO: COURTESY THE S’MORE SHACK
THE S’MORE SHACK 189 BOREAS PASS RD. (BASE OF PEAK 9) breckenridgesmoreshack.com On the plaza at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Peak 9, the S’More Shack is a small trailer-style food stand packing big sweet-tooth flavor. The inviting walk-up dessert depot serves gourmet, made-to-order s’mores, along with grilled cheese sandwiches and other comfort favorites. Scratch-crafted s’more versions include the Peanut Butter Lover, an Oreo-inspired s’moreo, and seasonal specialties that call on caramel and bananas. The real star of this food truck show is the homemade hand-cut vanilla marshmallow. You can’t go wrong with a classic s’more, constructed with a gooey, decadent marshmallow square and chocolate ganache between two honey graham cookies.
The S’more Shack
RICH IN DETAIL. CRAFTED FOR COMFORT.
5000 S. BROADWAY ENGLEWOOD, CO 80113 LANDMARKLINCOLN.COM 303-761-1560
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HOLISTIC LIVING
// body
Optimizing health and longevity with a thoughtful treatment regimen By Lexi Marshall
COMPRESSION BOOTS AND INFRARED saunas. Singing bowls and cold plunges. Across the South Denver suburbs, wellness studios are bringing these modalities together, and the people walking through their doors range from athletes chasing faster recovery to busy parents seeking a restorative pause in an infrared sauna. The word “biohacking” still carries certain associations. A few years ago, it conjured a distinctly Silicon Valley brand of wellness—experimental, obsessive, and relentlessly focused on optimization. But talk to the people running wellness studios in Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, and Virginia Village, and a much more nuanced approach emerges. “It’s really about being intentional with your health and finding ways to help your body function at its best,” says Deena Taylor, co-owner of Zivel Highlands Ranch. “It doesn’t have to mean extreme or complicated interventions.” Zivel’s approach leans on infrared heat, red light, compression, and cryotherapy, but Taylor is quick to point out that none of it is intended to replace sleep, exercise, strength training, good nutrition, and stress management. Those fundamentals, she says, still have the strongest evidence behind them. The technology is there to support the basics, not replace them. Up the road at Jalan Facial Spa in the Denver Tech Center, lead massage therapist Sara Bonnell has watched the same shift play out
from a different angle. Saunas, infrared treatments, sound and vibrational therapy—they’ve all surged in the past few years, and increasingly clients want them layered together rather than a la carte. “Multiple massage and sauna combinations have been popping up all across Denver,” Bonnell says, pointing to the rise of vibroacoustic lounge chairs and massage tables as evidence of how firmly these therapies have entered the wellness mainstream. Part of that growth, she thinks, comes down to accessibility. People understand light therapy’s anti-inflammatory effects now in a way they didn’t a decade ago, and there’s a growing awareness of how sound and vibration can calm an overtaxed nervous system. What ties these studios together isn’t any single technology. It’s a starting question: what does this particular person actually need? “We always start with the person, not the technology,” Taylor explains. “We ask what they’re hoping to accomplish, what their current routine looks like, and whether they have any medical conditions, medications, or other factors that could affect their experience.” Someone training for a race might be pointed toward compression or cryotherapy. Someone navigating a particularly stressful period might benefit instead from a dry float session or infrared sauna. Safety comes first, and sometimes that means a referral to a doctor before a treatment, or steering a client away from something entirely, rather than selling them on a service just because it’s on the menu. 16
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
PHOTO: COURTESY ZIVEL
Biohacking Bonnell brings that same instinct to the massage table, especially with clients trying the Sound Bath & Heated Bamboo Massage treatment for the first time. Her advice: lean in, don’t brace. “I encourage all of my clients receiving therapeutic or deep tissue massage to shift their view during the session from ‘how much pain or pressure can I take’ to ‘how relaxed can I be,’” she says. There’s a real connection between the nervous system and connective tissue, and clients who can consciously relax during a session let a therapist work into the muscle far more effectively than clients gritting their teeth through it.
Across town at Beyond Body Sculpting, owner Jackie Vizcaino takes a similar whole-body view with the studio’s Cleopatra Detox and Sculpt Ritual, a treatment that strings together full-spectrum infrared sauna, Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage, and red light facial sculpting into a single session. Vizcaino is careful to frame it as more than a beauty treatment. Many clients arrive carrying chronic stress, emotional trauma, or simply the physical wear of daily life, and while she’s clear that bodywork isn’t a treatment for trauma, she says creating space for the nervous system to settle can matter just as much as anything happening on the surface of the skin. Evidence plays a more prominent role in this new era of wellness, with practitioners drawing a clearer distinction between proven benefits and emerging research. Cryotherapy, Taylor says, has decent support for short-term
Bob Serotta Bob@Kentwood.com 303-587-4700
3 6 AC R E L E GACY E Q U E ST R I A N E STAT E 6225 South Fraser Street $14,000,000
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HOLISTIC LIVING
// body
recovery and easing the perception of soreness, though the bigger claims made about it haven’t caught up with the research yet. Infrared heat and regular sauna use show real promise for circulation, relaxation, and cardiovascular health, but she’s careful to note that correlation isn’t causation, and there’s still more to learn about how different infrared treatments stack up against traditional sauna exposure. Red light therapy has growing evidence behind it for skin health, wound healing, and recovery, though results swing depending on wavelength, dosage, treatment protocol, and the individual.
PHOTOS: COURTESY ZIVEL
The instinct toward medically grounded, evidence-first wellness is showing up in bigger ways across Greenwood Village, too. Eden Health Club has built a single space around beauty and aesthetics, functional medicine, fitness, and recovery, and nearby, The Longevity Lab, founded by Dr. Jonathan Schoeff and his
wife, Candace, was built specifically to treat patients starting at the source of a health issue rather than addressing symptoms in isolation. Neither positions itself as a conventional spa. Both are built around a more clinical model, pairing recovery technology with medical oversight rather than offering it as a stand-alone amenity. “These are active, health-conscious communities with people who are balancing demanding careers, families, fitness, and busy lifestyles,” Taylor says of Highlands Ranch and the surrounding suburbs. “They’re looking for convenient ways to prioritize their health without adding another complicated task to their schedules.” Bonnell sees the industry heading in a similar direction, with light therapy and manual lymphatic drainage earning a permanent seat at the table as legitimate health maintenance rather than indulgence, and she wouldn’t be surprised if spa-style treatments eventually find their way into insurance coverage or employer wellness benefits. The through-line across these studios isn’t any particular treatment or technology. It’s a philosophy: pair innovation with the fundamentals, rather than in place of them, and create an approach to wellness designed for the long term. BEYOND BODY SCULPTING 5777 E. Evans Ave., Ste 5 Denver 303.525.4443 beyondbodysculpting.net EDEN HEALTH CLUB 5990 S. University Blvd. Greenwood Village 720.605.7678 edenhealthclubs.com JALAN FACIAL SPA 8745 E. Orchard Rd., Ste. 519 Greenwood Village 720.762.5194 jalanspa.com ZIVEL HIGHLANDS RANCH 9325 Dorchester St., Ste. F-121 Highlands Ranch 720. 827.6311 zivel.com 18
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
Move With Confidence. Live Without Limits. Expert care. Advanced treatments. Proven results — from Colorado’s largest privately owned orthopedic group.
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STYLISH LIVING
// fashion
FALL FASHION FINDS IN CASTLE ROCK Everything you need to know to dress for the season
JCoons tee, $45; Lost & Found necklace, $69; Peter Grimm hat, $79; American Darling handbag, $79; at Burbo Chic Boutique.
By Amanda Lacey
SUMMER HAS HAD ITS MOMENT. Now it’s time to rethink your wardrobe for the season ahead. Inspiration is everywhere, but we’ve got the local insight you’re looking for to bring it all to life. This season offers a balance of timeless favorites and fresh perspectives, and we’re embracing every bit of it.
PHOTO: COURTESY BURBO CHIC
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September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
ReserveAtLoneTree.com 11010 High Note Ave. Lone Tree, CO 80134 720-901-5655
INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
STYLISH LIVING
// fashion
Rich, saturated hues like navy, plum, and chocolate brown define the season’s palette. You might be surprised by this season’s newest neutral. “Pick up anything with a leopard print to add to your wardrobe—it’s ever so big this year and can be mixed with plaids or balanced with any bold colors,” Valerie Nordin of Burbo Chic says. Texture is having a moment. Crochet carries on from the spring into the fall, along with fringe, embroidery, and other detailed embellishments including lace and velvet. One thing we can always count on is that the preppy style chapter isn’t going anywhere. Argyle remains a fall favorite. You know it, we love it, now let’s keep embracing it. Layer a printed sweater vest over a crisp white button-down for an effortlessly polished look or toss it on over a crewneck t-shirt for a more relaxed take on the trend. For those looking for something less traditional, novelty knitwear featuring wildlife motifs offers a playful alternative. This whimsical touch can be oversized and paired with sleek trousers to maintain a sense of balance. “Even if approaching fashion trends feels foreign, it’s important to make it applicable to your everyday life,” says Morgan Brubaker of Mod Mountain Boutique, “and you can still go for something that’s very on trend and pair it with your classic pieces.”
PHOTOS: COURTESY BURBO CHIC
Serenity Wrap, $65; at Burbo Chic Boutique. Young Threads jacket, $85; Art by Amy necklace, $189; Lost & Found necklace, $59; American Darling handbag, $149; Peter Grimm hat, $69; at Burbo Chic Boutique.
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STYLISH LIVING
// fashion
A well-rounded fall wardrobe starts with a handful of versatile staples—any style of denim that is flattering to your body, a denim jacket (yes, denim-on-denim is still going strong), cashmere sweaters, a great pair of loafers, and an eye-catching handbag. Each of these items can be mixed and matched in a variety of ways, making them just as appropriate for the workday as an evening out. Looking for a wardrobe refresh? It doesn’t always require a shopping spree. The power of great styling isn’t about owning more but rather reframing what you already have. Essentials like sweaters and denim jackets can be transformed by strategically adding a few versatile new pieces to revitalize your everyday looks. Consider trying a different silhouette. Opt for a new cut of dark-wash denim or an unexpected accessory. Even just one is all it takes to give an outfit a whole new style.
Brown horse longsleeve sweater, $77; Hannah duskwood blue outlaw flare jean, $120; camel, cream, and gray Aztec wristlet, $34; palm braid 4” brim hat, $46; at Mod Mountain Boutique.
PHOTOS: COURTESY MOD MOUNTAIN
Looking to elevate your everyday style? Debra Inman, Mainstream Boutique manager and stylist, says, “Your jacket, blazer, or cardigan is your third piece. Having a few of these in your wardrobe will instantly finish your look.” Colorado’s fall temperatures can shift dramatically from crisp mornings to warm afternoons, making layers an essential part of any wardrobe. Thoughtfully pairing lightweight tops with versatile jackets creates an effortless layering formula that’s as functional as it is stylish.
Black and ivory print split-neck dress, $110; navy zip-collar long-sleeve dress, $100; vegan suede teardrop hats, $64; at Mod Mountain Boutique.
Left: black button-front top with patch pocket, $67; silver 3-row pressed curb necklace, $23; black and cream geometric print skirt, $85. Middle: olive green button-front dress, $130; gold two-row pearl drop necklace, $24. Right: dusty blue crochet strip short-sleeve sweater, $57; Bobbie boot cut jean, $99; gold-filled reef paperclip necklace, $62; at Mod Mountain Boutique.
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STYLISH LIVING
// fashion KUT From the Cloth jeans, Catherine Boyfriend style, $109; Habitual white t-shirt, $52; Velvet Heart denim jacket, $118; Hammitt denim wallet, $245; at Mainstream Boutique.
One final styling tip: Choose a statement piece—whether it’s a bold necklace or sculptural ring—and wear it without waiting for a special occasion. A signature accessory doesn’t have to be reserved for noteworthy events. The right item can elevate even the simplest outfit, making everyday dressing feel a little more intentional. BURBO CHIC 200 Perry St. Castle Rock 720.679.7177 burbochic.com MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE 872 W. Happy Canyon Rd. Castle Rock 720.612.4334 mainstreamboutiquecastlepines.com MOD MOUNTAIN BOUTIQUE 215 Wilcox St. Castle Rock 720.381.6033 modmountainboutique.com
MB Tribal sweater, $98; UNOde50 butterfly necklace, $255; at Mainstream Boutique.
UNOde50 long chain, $135; UNOde50 short pearls, $125; at Mainstream Boutique.
PHOTOS: COURTESY MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE
Left: Hammitt purse, the East End Kyle, $325; Right: Hammitt purse, the Doxie, $425; at Mainstream Boutique.
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Expert guidance. No pressure. Beautiful fireplaces, premium grills, and refined patio furnishings backed by decades of trusted service and free in-home consultations. Create Your Outdoor Space 303.795.2507 lehrerfireplacepatio.com
PAT I O FIRE PITS FIREPLACES ACCESSORIES
STYLISH LIVING
// ideas for your home
Inspire Kitchen Design Studio
BOUGIE LOOS Statement-making materials for spaces designed around the rituals of everyday life By Heather Shoning
MORNING LIGHT SPILLS ACROSS bookmatched stone. Warm wood glows beneath sculptural lighting, polished brass catches the eye, and beyond a wall of glass, steam begins to gather. Everything has been considered— the sleek lines of the cabinetry, the weight of the hardware, the softness of the light, even the view from the shower. This is the bathroom elevated to its most luxurious form—a private sanctuary designed not simply for getting ready, but for lingering.
In these spaces, exceptional materials meet exquisite craftsmanship; hidden functionality shares space with sophisticated technology. A vanity becomes custom furniture. A shower rivals the spa at a favorite resort. A primary bath expands into a beautifully appointed dressing suite where the morning and evening rituals unfold in surroundings every bit as posh as the rest of the home. And if any room can justify a little glorious excess, surely it’s the one with a lock on the door. 28
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
For Angela Otten, lead designer and owner of Inspire Kitchen Design Studio, that experience begins with the setting. In one mountain primary bath, warm wood cabinetry, natural stone, a glass-enclosed shower, and broad views create a room that feels quietly luxurious rather than overtly showy. “This home was designed with an ‘outside-in’ philosophy,” she explains. “The materials and color palette flow seamlessly from the exterior into the interior, using warm woods
STYLISH LIVING
// ideas for your home
Inspire Kitchen Design Studio
PHOTOS: LIGHTBOX IMAGES
and natural stone in similar tones to create continuity rather than contrast.”
lighting beneath the cabinetry adds a subtle glow across the floor.
A floating walnut vanity stretches across the room while the shower opens toward the mountain view, making the landscape part of the private retreat. Large-format slab stone inside the shower minimizes grout lines, giving the enclosure a cleaner appearance while simplifying maintenance. Concealed storage keeps necessities close without allowing them to become part of the decor.
But luxury doesn’t always whisper. Even a powder room offers an opportunity to turn up the volume. In this Inspire Kitchen Design Studio project, Otten specified a sculptural stone console that becomes functional art against a dramatic, deeply textured wall. A round mirror and a constellation of pendant lights introduce softer forms and a little glamour.
That attention to what isn’t seen is equally important in a minimalist bath by Thurston Kitchen + Bath, created in collaboration with architect Lea Sisson. Here, textured laminate cabinetry and integrated pulls extend into long, uninterrupted lines. Wall-hung cabinets incorporate full-height doors or drawer fronts with concealed inner drawers, while the vanity depth hides plumbing that could otherwise interrupt the streamlined design. Integrated
“Powder rooms are an opportunity to surprise people,” she says. “We treated this space like a piece of art, layering bold texture, natural walnut, and sculptural lighting while keeping the rest of the elements understated. It’s memorable without feeling trendy.” The same philosophy can make a small bathroom feel every bit as aesthetic as a sprawling primary suite. Rather than filling the room 29
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with expensive finishes, Otten recommends choosing a single element worth noticing—a remarkable stone, wall treatment, artistic tile, or sculptural light fixture—and allowing everything else to play a supporting role. At the opposite end of the design spectrum is a primary bath that has expanded well beyond bathing. The dressing room and bath combination borrows some of its cues from a beautifully appointed boutique: custom cabinetry, a central storage island, a dedicated makeup vanity with a plush upholstered chair, and a window-side perch create a place for dressing and lingering rather than simply getting ready. Otten approached the bath, dressing area, and storage as a single suite, repeating materials and architectural details to visually connect each function. The result feels less like a bathroom with an oversized closet and more like a personal domain designed around making mornings and evenings sublime.
STYLISH LIVING
PHOTO: TIM MURPHY FOTO IMAGERY
// ideas for your home
Thurston Kitchen + Bath
PHOTO: COURTESY THERMASOL
Thermasol And then there is the bathroom that takes the home-spa idea quite literally. Bold navy cabinetry, gleaming brass fixtures, and richly veined surfaces establish the glamour, while the enclosed Thermasol steam shower adds another layer of indulgence—personalized wellness. Thermasol systems can integrate steam with digitally controlled water temperature and flow, as well as options for lighting and audio, depending on the system selected. The technology is sophisticated, but the appeal is wonderfully simple. A shower can become an experience worth making time for. That may be the defining characteristic of the new bougie loo. It isn’t luxury for the sake of showing off. It’s the pleasure of a space where beauty and ease are inseparable—where extraordinary materials surround you, every detail anticipates a need, and even the most ordinary rituals feel decidedly indulgent. INSPIRE KITCHEN DESIGN STUDIO IDC Building 590 Quivas St., 3rd Floor, Denver 720.650.0500 inspirekds.com THERMASOL IDC Building 590 Quivas St., 2nd Floor Denver 303.571.5611 thermasol.com THURSTON KITCHEN + BATH 761 Kalamath St., Denver 303.640.4555 thurstonkb.com 30
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Driven by
Generosity Wheels of Dreams returns for its sixth year with a new venue, more extraordinary experiences, and the same commitment to Colorado families By Heather Shoning
Lorton Furniture & Design and Closet Factory— returns for its sixth year in a new setting designed to give the evening even more room to shine. On Thursday, September 17, Wheels of Dreams moves to The Franciscan Event Center in Centennial, where expansive gardens, elegant indoor spaces, and a location near the Denver
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PHOTO: IMAGE CREATED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF CHATGPT
FOR FIVE YEARS, the Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience has brought together exotic cars, exceptional food, live entertainment, and a generous community—all in support of Colorado kids and families. This September, the signature AvidLifestyle and Colorado AvidGolfer event—joined by Title Sponsor Central Bank and Presenting Sponsors Howard
PHOTO: IMAGE CREATED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF CHATGPT
Tech Center create a fresh backdrop for one of the metro area’s most anticipated charity events.
PHOTO: SWEETIN PHOTOGRAPHY
“We’ve loved watching Wheels of Dreams grow into something people genuinely look forward to every year,” says event director Lori Perry. “The Franciscan gives us an opportunity to create a different kind of experience—one where guests can move between beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces and discover something new throughout the evening.”
PHOTO: SWEETIN PHOTOGRAPHY
ROOM TO DREAM BIGGER Family-owned for more than four decades, The Franciscan Event Center combines the polish of a traditional event venue with the appeal of landscaped outdoor spaces. Its light-filled Ballroom accommodates up to 225 guests, while the Aspen Room opens the experience toward the gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows. Outside, seasonal landscaping, a cascading waterfall, a marble gazebo, and a covered patio create a natural setting for mingling as the evening unfolds. The combination feels particularly suited to Wheels of Dreams, an event built around exploration rather than a traditional sit-down gala. Guests can wander among extraordinary vehicles, stop for a cocktail or bite, meet local chefs and artists, settle into an elegant lounge, and move from one experience to another throughout the night. 34
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PHOTOS: IMAGE CREATED WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF CHATGPT
“That sense of discovery has always been part of Wheels of Dreams,” Perry says. “We don’t want guests sitting at a table all night waiting for the next thing to happen. We want the entire evening to feel alive.” And this year, there will be plenty to discover. More than 36 exotic, classic, and luxury vehicles from private collections and elite dealers will be displayed throughout the event, giving automotive enthusiasts—and anyone who simply appreciates beautiful design—a chance to see remarkable machines up close. The evening’s “Indulge in the Extraordinary” theme continues through 12 gourmet restaurant-sponsored stations featuring globally inspired flavors, accompanied by wine, beer, and handcrafted cocktails—all included with admission. Beautifully appointed lounges from Howard Lorton Furniture & Design and Lehrer Fireplace & Patio offer places to gather and relax between experiences. Live entertainment expands this year as well. One of the most popular ’80s tribute bands in America, Denver’s own That Eighties Band will bring its high-energy sound to the evening, while The Breeze, an adult contemporary duo, provides outdoor entertainment. Live artistry from local artists adds another creative dimension, and guests can bid on silent and live auction offerings or try their luck in the popular Champagne Diamond Giveaway for a 2-carat natural diamond tennis bracelet from Shane Co.
At just $100 per person, admission includes gourmet food, handcrafted cocktails, wine and beer, live music, extraordinary cars, and an evening of entertainment. It’s an elevated date night or night out with friends—with the added reward of knowing that proceeds benefit FullCircle and support Colorado kids and families.
This year, proceeds once again benefit FullCircle, a nonprofit supporting young people struggling with mental health and addiction issues, as well as their families. With five Colorado locations, FullCircle provides a community centered on connection, recovery, and rebuilding lives.
THE PURPOSE BEHIND THE PARTY For all the polish and spectacle, Wheels of Dreams has always been built around a decidedly local mission. In its first five years, the event generated more than $494,000 for local children’s charities, with all the money remaining in our local communities.
That local impact was central to Perry’s vision when Wheels of Dreams began—and remains at the heart of the event six years later.
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“You can come because you love the cars, the food, the music, or simply a great night out,” Perry says. “But underneath all of it is the
That Eighties Band knowledge that this community is coming together to help families right here in Colorado. That’s what makes the night mean something.” The new venue may give Wheels of Dreams a different look in 2026, but the heart of the event remains unchanged: Gather people together, give them an extraordinary evening, and turn all that celebration into something that lasts long after the final song.
Event Details
WHAT: 6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience WHEN: Thursday, September 17, 2026, 5:00–9:30 p.m. WHERE: The Franciscan Event Center, 6553 S. Revere Parkway, Centennial BENEFITING: FullCircle PRESENTED BY: AvidLifestyle + Colorado AvidGolfer TICKETS + INFORMATION: wheelofdreams.bolder.bid
PHOTO: SWEETIN PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO: COURTESY THAT EIGHTIES BAND
PHOTO: SWEETIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Get your tickets today! 38
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HISPANIC HERITAGE Three South Denver stories highlight the traditions, entrepreneurship, and community leadership By Lexi Marshall EVERY SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER, communities across the country pause to recognize the histories, traditions, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. In the South Denver suburbs, that recognition shows up in familiar, everyday places—the careful stitching of a handmade accessory sold in a local market, at a family-owned restaurant table, and, of course, in the work of local nonprofits championing equality. DUENDES TEJIDOS Duendes Tejidos (knitted elves) began more than 15 years ago in Colombia, where founder Nancy Zamora and her childhood friend Ana grew up together in the same neighborhood, learning to knit and crochet side by side in school— Zamora with two needles, Ana with a hook. Around 2010, the two turned that shared craft into Duendes Tejidos, back home in Bogotá. When Zamora and her sister, Monica Josephson, later moved to Colorado, they set out to bring the brand with them, launching a knitted accessories business under the Duendes name in the spring of 2019. At first, the offerings were limited to winter pieces—scarves, hats, and mittens, and the sisters were still working out
how to build the business into a year-round venture. The pandemic reshaped those plans. “During COVID, with tutorials at home, I learned the beautiful art of beadwork,” she says. That period became the moment to add a beaded jewelry collection—a craft she had wanted to learn for years but had never had time to pursue—and a new woven line, expanding 40
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
PHOTO: COURTESY ADELANTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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PHOTOS: COURTESY DUENDES TEJIDOS
Duendes Tejidos
Duendes Tejidos
Duendes Tejidos beyond its original winter knitwear. The family’s creative roots run deep. Their father taught them to sew. An aunt worked in industrial clothing production. An uncle had a knack for building and designing things by hand. Though Zamora and Josephson largely taught themselves their current techniques, much of their inspiration comes from travel through Colombia, where each region carries its own weaving styles and colors, and where local markets became a source of ideas and appreciation for handcrafted work. That dual inheritance—Colombian craft tradition and a new life in Colorado—shapes the brand’s identity today. The sisters describe a strong resemblance between their hometown of Bogotá and their adopted home in Colorado, both being surrounded by nature and rich in color. “We focus on designing pieces that convey freedom, authenticity, and a conscious lifestyle,” Josephson says, “with a bohemian, relaxed yet chic feel, celebrating craftsmanship, creativity, and the beauty of handmade work.” For Zamora and Josephson, Hispanic Heritage Month is less a single occasion than an extension of what they do year-round. “It’s largely
an opportunity to honor what we do, especially with Duendes, to honor our art, customs, and roots,” Zamora says. Through pop-up markets and workshops, the sisters have found that teaching their craft is about more than technique. “The union and weaving of threads, similar to the union of people, can create a beautiful piece, a beautiful community,” Josephson says. They describe Colorado’s Latino business community as unusually supportive and credit the relationships built at markets and events with helping their 42
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business grow, even without a large network of fellow designers nearby. Looking ahead, the sisters hope to open a retail space of their own, one that would not only showcase Duendes Tejidos but also support other small artisans building their businesses. CASA MATA Jose Mata’s path to restaurant ownership started with a job he didn’t love. At 16, working in a Mexican restaurant in Everett, Washington, he washed dishes and helped
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Casa Mata
in the kitchen, tasks that never particularly appealed to him. What did appeal to him was the front of the house, the act of serving people directly and watching their reaction to a good meal. “I did not like cooking, but I love to serve people,” Mata says. That distinction mattered. Mata found real happiness in the moment a guest smiled, thanked him, and complimented the food and service. “That, to me, is the highest achievement that I have ever had,” he says. That realization planted the idea of one day opening a restaurant of his own. In 2003, Mata moved to Parker and took a job at a Mexican restaurant called Guadalajara. The community made an impression on him immediately, and he decided it was the right place to put down roots. Two decades later, Casa Mata stands as the result of that decision, though Mata is candid that the path was not easy. In the early years, he says, there were moments he doubted whether the business would survive. Today, Casa Mata is part of the fabric of Parker’s dining scene, something Mata attributes directly to the community’s response. He describes pride in sharing Mexican food traditions with customers, and for him, that connection is at the heart of Hispanic Heritage itself. Watching people enjoy the dishes on the menu continues to motivate him to introduce new items over time. Among the dishes on Casa Mata’s menu, carne asada holds particular significance for Mata personally. It was a near-weekly tradition growing up, when his family would gather around warm homemade tortillas, beans, and salsa. “My favorite plate is our carne asada dish—that brings me back to my youth years,” he says. That memory of family gathered around a shared meal informs how he thinks about hospitality today.
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PHOTO: COURTESY ADELANTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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PHOTO: COURTESY ADELANTE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
María González
PHOTO: COURTESY LATINO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF COLORADO
Latino Community Foundation of Colorado
Asked what he hopes for the South Denver community, Mata points back to the same idea that drew him into the restaurant business as a teenager: the enjoyment of good food, good drinks, and genuinely friendly service. “I love my business and mostly love what I do to make people happy and smile,” he says. “I love our great Parker community.” LATINO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF COLORADO Alongside individual entrepreneurs and artisans, a network of nonprofits is working to address a less visible barrier facing Colorado’s Hispanic and Latino community: access to capital. National data published by the Federal Reserve shows white applicants are far more likely to receive all the financing they seek than Hispanic, Black, or Asian applicants, and Brookings Institution research has found large banks approve Hispanic- and Latino-owned business loans at notably lower rates than those owned by white applicants. That gap can
stall housing projects, delay services, and put entire neighborhoods at risk of being reshaped without the people who built them. The Latino Community Foundation of Colorado (LCFC) created the Colorado Communities of Color Loan Fund to help close that gap, offering flexible, culturally responsive financing to nonprofits and community developers led by and serving communities of color. Adelante Community Development, a Commerce City-based nonprofit, turned to the fund during a period of growing community need and limited access to equitable funding. Established in 2014, the organization bridges resource gaps by providing business courses, mentorship, and equity advocacy in Spanish. María González, the organization’s founder and CEO, says the program stood out because it recognized the specific challenges culturally rooted organizations face in traditional lending systems. “It creates trust, stability, and 46
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long-term community investment,” González told LCFC. She adds that she hopes more foundations and financial institutions adopt similar models going forward. The loan fund is one piece of a broader set of initiatives LCFC has built to strengthen Latinoled and Latino-serving organizations statewide, including a multi-year cohort program supporting the capacity of established nonprofits, a nonprofit infrastructure grant developed with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs for organizations affected by the pandemic, and a coalition of nonprofit leaders that helped champion the passage of state legislation supporting community organizations. Together, the efforts reflect a broader theme running through this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month stories: Lasting community impact depends not only on creativity and hard work, but also on making sure the people closest to that work have real access to the resources needed to sustain it.
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6th Annual
WHEELS OF DREAMS CHARITY EXPERIENCE
Join us for an Evening of Luxury & Charity Thursday, September 17 5:00 – 9:30 pm New Venue: The Franciscan Event Center thefranciscaneventcenter.com
Live music by
• Gourmet chef stations from 12 local restaurants
• Phil Long Automotive 50/50 giveaway
• Craft cocktails, wine, and beer
• Hands-on activities, prizes, and giveaways
• Designer lounges for mixing, mingling, and relaxing
Get your tickets today!
• Classic, exotic, and luxury cars on display • Live jazz under the gazebo and stars • Local artist showcases 48
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
• Silent and live auctions, exclusive trips, and more • Proceeds benefit FullCircle, a local charity supporting families facing mental health and addiction challenges
Dream Big and Try Your Luck! CHAMPAGNE DIAMOND GIVEAWAY 2ct Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet, retail value $3,450 Sponsored by
WAYFARERS
// colorado getaway
12 Hours in Manitou Springs A day trip worth the drive
PHOTO: COURTESY SUNWATER SPA
By Lisa Blake
RESTING IN THE SHADOW of Pikes Peak just six miles west of Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs is an earthy village where natural mineral springs bubble up throughout downtown, Victorian-era buildings line walkable streets, and outdoor pursuits call from all directions. Here’s how to spend a memorable 12 hours exploring one of Colorado’s most whimsical destinations. MORNING GRAB A BITE Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and steak and eggs or corned beef hash at Mo’s Diner, a local institution since 1947. For something a little lighter, visit the community-minded Loft for breakfast burritos and open-faced bagels like the Larry David, an iteration stacked with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh veggies. SIP THE SPRINGS After breakfast, grab a walking map and begin exploring Manitou Springs’ famous mineral springs. Eight naturally carbonated springs are scattered throughout downtown on an easy
2.3-mile loop, each with its own distinct mineral composition and flavor. Sampling them is a fun—and free—way to experience one of the town’s defining traditions. STROLL AND PLAY DOWNTOWN Manitou Avenue is packed with locally owned boutiques, bookstores, and artisan shops. Browse handcrafted jewelry, Colorado-made gifts, outdoor gear, and colorful art while chatting up shop owners who are quick to share community lore. Don’t miss the famous Penny Arcade stretching across eight buildings and featuring more than 400 coin-operated games and rides, including pinball, Skee-Ball, and a 12-horse Derby race game manufactured in England. AFTERNOON FUEL UP & GO Pause for pizza at Savelli’s, juicy burgers and ice-cold beers at Manitou Brewing Company, or authentic noodle dishes at Manitou Thai & Ramen. Savor a nourishing meal while you plan your post-lunch adventure. Will it be tackling the legendary and challenging 50
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Manitou Incline’s 2,768 steps? Or perhaps walking the Garden of the Gods’ scenic trails, oohing and aahing at towering red sandstone formations and snapping Instagrammable pics of one of Colorado’s most photographed landscapes? WITNESS ENCHANTING HISTORY AND ART Afterward, visit the Miramont Castle Museum, an 1895 Victorian mansion showcasing period furnishings and fascinating exhibits about the region’s history. Peep downtown’s public art installations and vibrant storytelling murals and, if time allows, stop by the Manitou Art Center, where rotating exhibitions and working artist studios spotlight Manitou’s creative energy. RELAX BEFORE DINNER Walk along Fountain Creek and settle onto a shaded bench to enjoy the slower pace that makes Manitou Springs special. Keep an eye out for seasonal festivals and musicians performing downtown. Slip into SunWater Spa for a soak (advance reservations recommended) in one of its cedar
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hot tubs. The soothing mineral-rich waters pair beautifully with the spa’s traditional sauna, cold plunges, and indoor saline pool. If soaking isn’t your thing, take the shuttle to Rainbow Falls and watch the evening light fractal into colorful arcs within the 45-foot-tall cascade. EVENING DINNER WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS Cap off your day with dinner at one of Manitou Springs’ locally owned restaurants. Tuck away for a slow, wine-focused experience on the stone-walled patio at Swirl Restaurant & Wine Bar. Book a memorable, four-course fondue dinner at The Mona Lisa and get hands-on with the tabletop grill and rich chocolate fondue dessert course. Casual salads, burgers, and steaks are the main attraction at The Keg Lounge, while adobe-style Crystal Park Cantina is the spot for homestyle Mexican and hand-shaken margs. As dusk settles over the valley, make one final pass through downtown Manitou Springs, taking in the historic brick and stone buildings, sparkling string lights, welling and rippling natural waters, and iconic mountain silhouettes. Slow down to feel the Manitou Springs energy and pause in gratitude for the Algonquian word—Manitou—meaning spirit and mystery. 52
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// changemaker
FullCircle Changing the story for at-risk youth and their families By Heather Shoning Photos Courtesy FullCircle
EVERY PARENT HOPES their child will find a future filled with opportunity. But for many families across South Denver, substance use, anxiety, depression, and other high-risk behaviors threaten to rewrite that story long before adulthood begins.
Young people participate in regular support groups alongside peers facing similar challenges while parents receive guidance and encouragement through their own weekly meetings. For many families, recovery becomes a shared journey rather than an individual struggle.
That’s where FullCircle steps in.
Today, FullCircle facilitates more than 624 support group meetings along with 624 sober social events annually in Colorado, giving young people opportunities to build friendships and create new memories without drugs or alcohol. Families enrolled in the program receive intensive support, often totaling 15 or more hours each week, including individual appointments, family meetings, crisis support, and ongoing communication with staff. Those services continue well beyond the initial stages of recovery, helping participants navigate the inevitable ups and downs that accompany lasting change.
Serving teens and young adults ages 13 to 25, FullCircle is a Colorado-based nonprofit that provides no-cost recovery support for young people struggling with substance use and other mental health challenges. Rather than focusing solely on stopping destructive behaviors, the organization helps participants build something even more powerful: a life worth staying sober for. RECOVERY BUILT AROUND COMMUNITY Traditional treatment often ends when a program is complete. FullCircle is intentionally different. The organization combines youth peer groups, family support meetings, one-on-one mentoring, sober social events, and long-term involvement into what it calls an Alternative Peer Group model. The philosophy is simple: Lasting recovery requires connection, purpose, and belonging—not isolation.
The organization has also developed recovery workbooks for both young people and parents, and is creating additional resources written by youth, for youth, based on real lived experience. RESULTS THAT MATTER Behind every statistic is a young person whose future has shifted course. 54
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According to FullCircle’s 2025 impact data, nearly every participant enters the program carrying significant emotional and behavioral challenges. Among incoming participants: • 98% struggle with depression or anxiety. • 98% are battling substance use. • 95% face serious social consequences related to substance use. • 89% have experienced suicidal thoughts. • 84% have driven under the influence. Within months of entering the program, the outcomes are striking. Substance use falls to nearly zero within the first 90 days. Suicidal thoughts drop below one percent within six months. Anxiety and depression decrease by more than 50 percent, while 97 percent report improved family relationships, 94 percent improve their ability to maintain employment, and 42 percent increase their focus on education. The numbers tell an encouraging story, but perhaps more importantly, they reflect restored hope—for both young people and the families walking beside them.
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SOCIETY & CULTURE
// changemaker
GROWING TO MEET THE NEED The program started in Arizona, and Colorado FullCircle opened its doors in 2019 and, by the end of 2025, had expanded to five locations and six programs in Colorado, with a team of 18 full-time staff serving communities across the state. The organization has a total of nine locations across five states. Its influence is extending beyond Colorado as well. FullCircle has hosted international youth recovery retreats, bringing together participants from multiple countries to share experiences and demonstrate that recovery transcends borders. At the same time, the organization is investing in formal research partnerships and data collection designed to measure long-term outcomes and strengthen youth recovery models nationwide. The program is even reaching across the pond. After establishing connections in Sweden, Ireland, and Italy, FullCircle is mapping out plans for international expansion. To ensure the model translates well across cultures—for both participants and donors—FullCircle is collaborating with Emily Hennessy, Ph.D., assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and associate director and director of biostatistics at the Recovery Research Institute. A former Fulbright Scholar to Norway with a master’s in health promotion and a focus on adolescent well-being, Dr. Hennessy is currently conducting a pilot study of the FullCircle program. INVESTING IN LASTING CHANGE Like many nonprofits, FullCircle relies on community support to sustain and expand its work. Approximately 78 percent of organizational funding goes directly toward programming, operations, and growth, while investments in staffing, infrastructure, and data collection are designed to ensure the program remains both effective and scalable for years to come. Those investments are already making a difference. The organization expects to serve more than 300 families during the remainder of this year alone while continuing to remove financial barriers through scholarships and partnerships that connect families with treatment, therapy, and counseling when needed. DRIVING HOPE FORWARD FullCircle is the beneficiary of the AvidLifestyle and Colorado AvidGolfer Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience, an initiative that combines automotive enthusiasm with community philanthropy.
financial hardship never prevents someone from accessing the help they need. For countless families, recovery begins with a single conversation. FullCircle is working every day to make sure that conversation leads not simply to sobriety—but to a future filled with possibility. The 6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience takes place on Thursday, September 17, at The Franciscan Event Center. For more information and tickets, visit wheelofdreams.bolder.bid.
The partnership reflects a shared belief that meaningful change happens when communities invest in people. Proceeds from the event will help FullCircle continue providing life-changing support to young people and families across South Denver, ensuring that
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SOCIETY & CULTURE
// influencer PHOTO: COURTESY VALOR CHRISTIAN HIGH
Beyond the Classroom By Kristi Seller FOR SHANDRA PANKOSKI, education is about more than mastering a single subject. It is about helping students discover their strengths, go beyond what they thought possible, and recognize the purpose behind their individual gifts. Pankoski has served Valor Christian High School in several capacities, beginning as the math department chair before becoming STEM curriculum lead. Today, she serves as director of academic development and STEM, a role that allows her to support both students and fellow educators.
“What I enjoy most is having the opportunity to develop experiences where students and teachers feel challenged, inspired, and empowered to grow,” she says. “Seeing that growth, academically, personally, and spiritually, is what brings me the greatest fulfillment.” That philosophy often takes learning far beyond the traditional classroom. Through Valor’s STEM program, more than 30 industry professionals partnered with students last year, mentoring yearlong capstone projects. They also provided internships and job-shadow possibilities and introduced students to potential career paths. Those experiences ranged from participating in a cadaver lab and learning suturing techniques from physicians to touring nuclear reactors and engineering facilities. Many opportunities are driven by the students themselves. “When students are given meaningful opportunities, inspired by caring mentors, and 58
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
PHOTO: COURTESY SHANDRA PANKOSKI
From STEM mentorships to a student mission trip in South Africa, Shandra Pankoski creates meaningful opportunities for Valor Christian students
SOCIETY & CULTURE
// influencer Shandra Pankoski and students in South Africa as part of a Valor Christian High School Discovery program trip.
PHOTOS: COURTESY VALOR CHRISTIAN HIGH
challenged to step beyond what they think they’re capable of, they almost always exceed their own expectations,” Pankoski says.
Through Valor’s Discovery program, which incorporates service, cultural immersion, leadership development, and other experiences, Pankoski traveled with students to South Africa. There, they served underprivileged communities in Johannesburg and Cape Town, leading children’s camps, providing health education, joining healthcare workers on home visits, and serving alongside the Cooking Mamas, a ministry providing meals to people in need. Pankoski was especially moved by watching students embrace unfamiliar circumstances. “They consistently chose compassion over comfort,” she says. One of the trip’s most memorable moments happened on a soccer field. After several days of ministry, the group faced local high school students in what had been billed as a “friendly” match. “It looked like we had accidentally signed up to play the South African national team,” Pankoski jokes. The Valor students jumped in anyway, and the competition quickly became secondary to the
PHOTO: COURTESY SHANDRA PANKOSKI
That same emphasis on growth recently took Pankoski and a group of Valor students thousands of miles from home.
connection forming between the two groups. “By the end of the match, it didn’t feel like two teams from different countries; it felt like a group of friends who happened to meet over a soccer ball,” she says.
and parents experience,” Pankoski says. “My husband and children inspire me every day, and I know I am a better teacher and leader because of the ways they have challenged, supported, and encouraged me.”
Away from school, Pankoski finds her own sense of adventure close to home. She and her husband have three children, and the family enjoys paddleboarding, hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing together.
Whether helping a student envision a future career, serving a community halfway around the world, or simply encouraging someone to take the next challenging step, Pankoski’s approach remains rooted in helping young people see their own possibilities—in the world around them and within themselves.
Motherhood, she says, has also influenced the way she approaches students and families. “It has given me a deeper understanding of the hopes, joys, and challenges that both students 60
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
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ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events
SEPTEMBER
September 5 MERCADO AT MCGREGOR SQUARE Denver Friendors and McGregor Square invite you to a premier community market celebrating Hispanic culture, community, and commerce, featuring an incredible lineup of local Hispanicowned businesses in the heart of downtown Denver. Full event details and selection of makers and brands available online. DENVER, mcgregorsquare.com September 6 TOMBSTONE TALES In recognition of the State of Colorado’s 150th anniversary, the 2026 Tombstone Tales theme is people of Grand Lake who lived in 1876. All tours start and end at the Gateway Inn. Arrive about 10 minutes prior to your tour time to board a van to get to the cemetery. You will be walking on uneven ground, so wear appropriate footwear. GRAND LAKE, grandartscouncil.com September 8 ANIMALS AROUND THE ROCK SERIES Join Douglas Land Conservancy and the Town to dive into the characteristics that define local wildlife, including raptors, reptiles, bats, insects, and other species. Local wildlife experts, organizations, and wildlife rehabilitators, such as Nature’s Educators, will be featured at these programs. Discover the various types of animals that live locally and all over the world. Find out what they eat, how they hunt, where they live, and how they benefit the local ecosystems. This program is recommended for ages 8 and up, and registration is required due to limited seating. CASTLE ROCK, crgov.com September 11–13 & 18–20 VAIL OKTOBERFEST Nestled in the European-inspired town of Vail and taking place over two weekends in Lionshead Village (Sept. 11–13) and Vail Village (Sept. 18–20), the Vail Oktoberfest brings an international audience together to celebrate an authentic Bavarian festival. Clad in dirndls and lederhosen, Vail Oktoberfest attendees prost, polka dance, and eat all weekend long.
PHOTO: CARLEY HAUPT
Ongoing Through November BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOUR MILE Offering a mesmerizing blend of art by day and luminescent magic by night, Bright Nights at Four Mile Historic Park runs Wednesday through Sunday evenings, from August 8 through November 8. Bright Nights at Four Mile returns with a magical menagerie of brightly colored lanterns. Travel through space and time, shrink down to the size of a Four Mile honeybee to explore life as an insect, and walk alongside a giant mantis or through a field of oversized wildflowers. Cross the globe to discover African animals and dive deep into the ocean to spend time with sharks. Delight in the same natural world that inspired Victorian literary classics. DENVER, fourmilepark.org/ brightnights
September 12 DOGGIE SPLASH Man’s best friend deserves a pool day! Treat your pup to a splash-filled adventure at the Westridge Outdoor Pool. This tail-wagging event is perfect for social, well-behaved dogs ready to cool off and make new furry friends. Space is limited, and each dog will need a ticket to enter the event. For everyone’s safety, all dogs must be at least six months old and current on vaccinations. Owners are required to stay with their dogs throughout the event. WESTRIDGE REC CENTER, hrcaonline.org Competitions such as the world-famous keg bowling championship, stein hoisting competition, costume contest, and bratwurst eating contest are weekend traditions. VAIL, oktoberfestvail.com September 12 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM GALA Save the date for an evening full of magic and mischief at this annual gala while celebrating 18 years of service to Colorado children and families in need. Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a cocktail hour, interactive experiences, live and silent auctions, an inspiring program, a delicious dinner, and live entertainment with dancing. Location and additional details available online. DENVER, apreciouschild.org September 12 CHALK ART FESTIVAL CENTENNIAL Talented local artists bring sidewalk chalk masterpieces to life at this festival. Arrive early to spend the day browsing local businesses and vendors, listening to live music, and grabbing a bite to eat at a local restaurant. You will have the chance to vote for your favorite chalk art too. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at THE STREETS AT SOUTHGLENN, centennialco.gov September 12 & 13 CASTLE ROCK ARTFEST Delight in the artistic impressions of more than 110 artists from across the country. This 62
September 2026 // AvidLifestyle
two-day event is held in downtown Castle Rock at Festival Park. Continual live main-stage entertainment, featuring popular musicians, will provide a complimentary backdrop to this year’s program. The Castle Rock community is abundant with public art, which ignites creativity and inspires conversation. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, collector, or simply looking for a great community event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. CASTLE ROCK, castlerock.org September 16 MARJORIE PARK LIVE Watch Marjorie Park transform into a magical night of music and dancing under the open sky at this summer concert series featuring an exciting lineup of regional and national bands this season. Make sure you mark your calendar and get tickets early. The September event brings “Blues and Grooves” with Atlanta-based neo-soul, jazz-pop, and blues singer-songwriter KELS. She has gained a large following, captivating audiences with her undeniable stage presence, heartfelt lyrics, and gritty, powerhouse vocals. GREENWOOD VILLAGE, moaonline.org September 17 6TH ANNUAL WHEELS OF DREAMS Join AvidLifestyle and Colorado AvidGolfer at The Franciscan Event Center for the ultimate date night at our 6th Annual Wheels of Dreams Charity Experience. One of the hottest,
ON THE AGENDA interactive, luxury events in town, where you will immerse yourself in mouth-watering tastes at 11 different culinary action stations, enjoy amazing cocktails, incredible indoor and outdoor entertainment, including this year’s featured entertainment: Colorado favorite That Eighties Band. It’s an evening of experiences, food, and fun that helps raise awareness and money for our amazing charity partner and local families! The beneficiary, FullCircle Program, is a community of people who believe in healing, hope, and the power of coming together to support young people and families facing mental health and addiction challenges. DENVER, avidlifestyle.com September 18 FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ: SASS, SWING, AND STANDARDS WITH MARION POWERS Spend an unforgettable evening immersed in the timeless sounds of jazz at The Schoolhouse Theater. Featuring the CJRO sextet and acclaimed jazz vocalist Marion Powers, this special performance celebrates the enduring magic of the Great American Songbook. From beloved swing-era classics to fresh interpretations of jazz favorites, the evening highlights the rich melodies, soulful storytelling, and irresistible rhythms that continue to define America’s jazz tradition. Elegant, intimate, and filled with timeless music, this Friday Night Jazz performance is perfect for jazz lovers and newcomers alike. PARKER, parkerarts.org September 18–20 COLORFEST HOT AIR BALLOON RALLY Around the autumnal equinox, Pagosa Springs hosts a trifecta of festivals to cap off the summer and welcome in fall. They’ll all be organized around the vivid Colorfest Balloon Rally. Held annually since 1986, it’s an easy reason to plan a September trip to Archuleta County—combining a wine festival, beer festival, and hot air balloon show all in one Wild West Pagosa weekend. The Passport to Pagosa and Bands & Brews festivals are known to sell out, so book early. There is also a 5K run hosted on Saturday during the morning ascension. PAGOSA SPRINGS, pagosachamber.com September 19 CLEAR THE CLUTTER Clear the Clutter is a one-day community event designed to help Highlands Ranch residents responsibly dispose of unwanted items and materials in a convenient, centralized location. Whether you’re tackling seasonal cleaning or clearing out long-overdue clutter, this event offers an easy way to drop off a wide range of household items in one go. The event is open to Highlands Ranch residents only and does not require registration. Guests should plan for potential lines and allow extra time—your patience is greatly appreciated as materials are processed. Specific vendors and accepted items to be announced. HIGHLANDS RANCH, hrcaonline.org September 19 CASTLE ROCK OKTOBERFEST This Downtown Castle Rock staple event offers
live German music while indulging in delicious offerings from food trucks. Kids can have a blast with free bounce houses, a rock wall, and inflatable games, while adults can sip on beer, wine, and cocktails. Don’t miss out on the vendor booths and cap off the night with a DJ dance party. Event runs 1–9 p.m. CASTLE ROCK, downtowncastlerock.com September 19–20 ART ON THE GREEN Art On The Green is a great way to spend a September weekend in Greenwood Village—easy to enjoy, and full of local creativity. The show takes place at Curtis Park next to the Curtis Center for the Arts. This standout local event, ideal for patrons who want to shop great art, will feature dozens of artist booths, live music, food trucks, and a relaxed community atmosphere that makes it easy to browse, linger, and discover new favorite artists. GREENWOOD VILLAGE, coloradoartweekend.com September 25 WINE WALK Gather your family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors, and enjoy a beautiful evening in Downtown Parker. Select downtown merchants will be pouring wine for participants at their business locations. Grab your collectible glass, map, and wristband at the Parker Chamber office, and spend your evening wandering Downtown Parker tasting and socializing. The event is rain or shine, 4:30–7:30 p.m. Enjoy music and event exhibitors on the back side
// can’t-miss events
of the Parker Station Office Building as you begin your evening. All participants must be 21 or older and must present valid ID. PARKER, parkerchamber.com
September 26 HIGHLANDS RANCH OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION Time to gather your family and friends for a lively Oktoberfest celebration. The day kicks off at 9 a.m. with the festive Oktoberfest 5K, followed by an afternoon of lively music, delicious food, and plenty of Bavarian-inspired fun beginning at 1 p.m. Enjoy a full lineup of entertainment on the main stage, stein-hoisting competitions, and other crowd favorites throughout the day. Savor classic German bites like bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel, and raise a glass to the season with a variety of Germanstyle biers—both imported and locally brewed. TOWN CENTER SOUTH, hrcaonline.org September 26 PRINCESS PARTY AT THE CASTLE Are you ready to step into a fairy-tale world? Grab your favorite princess attire and embark on an unforgettable adventure at Cherokee Ranch & Castle. Indulge in delightful treats and refreshing beverages fit for a princess and capture precious memories against the backdrop of the majestic castle. Space is limited, and these magical moments fill up quickly, so secure your reservation online in advance. CHEROKEE RANCH & CASTLE, cherokeeranch.org
SLICED PORTERHOUSE FOR TWO
Steak Board Sunday Shareable 2-course steak experience for groups of two, four or six. Starting at $98 for two guests. 191 INVERNESS DRIVE WEST ENGLEWOOD, CO 80112 303-768-0827
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