Our mission is to provide stable, safe, and affordable housing, to offer resources for residents to achieve stability, and to promote solutions to the affordable housing needs of our community.
WHO WE ARE
Greccio Housing has been a leader in providing opportunities for housing stability in the Pikes Peak region since 1990. Our organization began with a heart of humility and service, and stands as a housing champion, advocate, and provider for those without the voice or resources to do so themselves.
The core of our calling and values remain the same after 35 years, though our platform and reach are greater than ever. Our impact is delivered by professional property management, real estate development, compliance, resident resources, public policy, and systems that support vital business operations. Our daily task is to have a heart for our residents and community, and a mind for our business. Thank you for being part of our legacy.
Letter from Executive Director Lee Patke
With reflection at the end of each year, themes and experiences emerge that reflect the uniqueness of that time, almost as if it had its own personality. It is constructed by the challenges faced, the achievements accomplished, and very frequently by the relationships that were shared while enduring and enjoying it all. I think that when we look back on 2024/25, we’ll see it as a foundational year for Greccio’s future.
Even though it was a year of celebration - 35 years! - the permanent dedication honoring our founder and celebration of such a great milestone seemed to mark a transition from the past to our future. Our portfolio and geographic reach have been permanently altered. The development of our team, partners, and business now ensure that we are positioned for the needs of tomorrow. Make no mistake, the ties to our past and foundation of our organization are as strong and valued as ever.
As employees, Board members, volunteers, and other champions leave for other pastures (they can’t actually be greener, can they?!), we welcome new partners in our mission. I am grateful for those who came to Greccio from
Pictured left: Grand Opening of the North Weber Property, photo taken circa 1994
GRECCIO’S
MISSION HAS ENDURED FOR DECADES BECAUSE WE WERE BUILT ON A SOLID FOUNDATION BY PEOPLE OF ALIGNED HEARTS AND MINDS. WITH THE HOUSING NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITY PROJECTED TO INCREASE, IT’S MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER TO
REMAIN FAITHFUL IN OUR CALLING AND RESOLUTE IN OUR ABILITY TO MEET OUR MISSION.
— LEE PATKE, EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR
faraway places, or those who were nearby all along but joined us with greatly expanded skills and expertise. We welcome new staff and Board members, some of whom we’ve known for years and others who seem to be supernaturally or spiritually dropped in just the right place and at just the right time. And what an honor and blessing it is to be in my chair for so many of those years, to act on Greccio’s behalf as we say goodbye and wish them well, or to welcome a new generation of talent and eagerly express and demonstrate to them what a special place it is that they’ve joined!
We are honored to be alongside our enduring community collaborators and partners, with whom we are in ‘the arena’ and engage the fight every day with eagerness, appreciation, and hope. And somehow there are others in our own community that we suddenly discover as friends and colleagues.
As we move into a future that is unknown, we should do so with the knowledge and confidence of who we are. Greccio’s mission has endured for decades because we were built on a solid foundation by people of aligned hearts and minds. With the housing needs of our community projected to
increase, it’s more important than ever to remain faithful in our calling and resolute in our ability to meet our mission. For whatever challenges lie ahead, we also see opportunity like never before - opportunities to serve, to lead, to partner, to respond, and to build on what was started 35 years ago.
THANK YOU for what you’ve brought to our organization and to the lives that we’ve impacted. And I invite each of you to stay joined with Greccio as we build on our legacy and continue the journey for the benefit of our community and those we serve.
Sincerely,
Lee Patke, Executive Director
Pictured Below: The Pikes Peak Mountain Range
Pictured Right: Lee Patke, Executive Director, Greccio Housing
GRECCIO HOUSING
LEADERSHIP STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
LEE PATKE
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
BRIAN BAKER
PROJECT DIRECTOR
DON MASSE
DIR. OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
HARLAN HOBSON
DIRECTOR OF ACCOUNTING
MARISHKA BEATY
MANAGING BROKER
JERRY KNAUF
HR & BUSINESS MANAGER
JODI EVERETT
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
QIANA KENNARD
PROGRAMS MANAGER
DOUG YAMAGUCHI
MAINTENANCE MANAGER
WILLIAM STANLEY
COMPLIANCE & LEASING MANAGER
CAROLYN LEGGITT
COMPLIANCE & LEASING MANAGER
WINNIE CLARK
FUNDRAISING & EVENTS MANAGER
ALEXIS MCCLURE
PR & MARKETING MANAGER
OLIVIA WHALEY
New Board Member
2024/2025 Fiscal Year
ELIZABETH QUEVEDO
Elizabeth Ewing Quevedo serves as Director of Community Strategies for Harrison School District 2, where she leads strategic initiatives to strengthen student and family outcomes. A Tennessee native and West Point graduate, she served six years as an Army officer and brings a deep commitment to service-driven leadership. Previously, Elizabeth held senior leadership roles at Pikes Peak United Way, including Director and Senior Vice President of Community Impact, and was Executive Director of Citizen Soldier Connection. She is passionate about community collaboration, strategic planning, and developing systems that support families, military members, and neighborhoods.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT - QIANA KENNARD
Qiana joined the Greccio team in April of 2024, stepping into the role of Accounting Manager and quickly establishing herself as a vital contributor to the organization’s financial operations. From managing Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, to overseeing taxes, quarterly filings, and much more, her work ensures Greccio’s financial processes run smoothly and accurately. When Greccio began the search for a Controller, Qiana stepped up to support those critical responsibilities, helping maintain stability during the transition. She also played a key role in assisting with payroll during a period of staffing changes, demonstrating her flexibility and commitment to the team. New to nonprofit accounting prior to Greccio, Qiana has embraced the opportunity to learn new skills and explore new facets of the field. She especially enjoys that no two days are the same, as her work continually brings new projects and challenges that keep her engaged and growing.
Departing Board Members
2024/2025 Fiscal Year
Every nonprofit organization depends on and is guided by a group of volunteers who often go unseen and unknown. They are the ones who support and challenge the Executive Director and drive the organization to excellence. Greccio’s Board members reflect all the expected qualities of a typical board, but our Board is truly exceptional. Bringing unique perspectives, skillsets, personalities, and minds that are as diverse and rich as our community, Greccio’s Board members ensure that our daily direction is aligned with overall strategy. They are greatly appreciated.
This year, three of those incredible individuals exited the ranks of the Board but left behind a lasting impact on our mission.
BOB BENTZEN
Bob Bentzen brought a lifetime of construction and operational experience, and a deep heart for those we serve. Over many years, Bob’s contributions were as much through relevant insights and expertise as they were by his inquisitive and thoughtful nature, frequently bringing a human element to business matters. Bob is a true gentleman and dedicated husband.
MIKE PHAN
Mike Phan is a U.S. veteran who originally joined the Greccio team as a Projects Manager many years ago and remained deeply connected to our mission and our people long after his role departure. Mike’s commitment to detail, processes, and impact will be missed, though we’re sure he will continue to stay connected and that his influence will endure.
DR. MICHAEL CLAUDIO
Dr. Michael Claudio’s tenure was brief but valued. He came to Greccio with the perspective of a local school district administrator and recruiter of teachers to our area. He deeply understood the role housing plays in their lives and the importance of housing stability for such a vital segment of our workforce.
On behalf of a grateful organization, Greccio sincerely appreciates the valuable time and insight that Bob, Mike, and Dr. Claudio have contributed to our mission. THANK YOU for your service!
GRECCIO HOUSING BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
TAMI ZAMBORELLI
VICE PRESIDENT
JARIAH WALKER
TREASURER
KELLY FITZGERALD
SECRETARY
TAMARA SAUNDERS
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
DIANE MILLER
BOARD MEMBERS
TYRONE JOHNSON
DAVID NEVILLE
THEA PLATT
STEVE POSEY
ELIZABETH QUEVEDO
LEE PATKE
When Claudia Deats Rodgers first felt the call to address the growing need for affordable housing in Colorado Springs, she knew confronting the need would be met by a mountain of challenges. The path was unmarked, the climb uncertain, and the summit far from view. Yet, with faith, determination, and a deep belief in the dignity of every person, she took the first step.
In the shadow of Pikes Peak, Greccio Housing has grown and evolved for 35 years. What began as a small foothold—nine apartments and a bold vision—set the course for a steady ascent led by a ministry of community, prayer, and action. Looking back from where we stand today, it can be hard to remember the thousands of steps, decisions, and commitments required to traverse the difficult terrain that lay before our founders three and a half decades ago. But every challenge met and every obstacle overcome became part of the path that brought us here.
Today, m ore than 1,400 men, women, and children call Greccio Housing home. Each is on their own journey: individuals, seniors, veterans, young adults, and families of all types. As living expenses rise, wages lag, and unexpected health, career, or environmental challenges threaten stability, the 29 communities we own or manage serve as the foundation for their families’ security and stability. In their stories, we see why our own climb matters.
As we celebrated our 35th anniversary in 2025, we paused to honor those who fought tirelessly to blaze this trail, and also gave thanks for all who continue to support our efforts in meeting the future needs of our people and community. The climb has never been easy, but the summit remains clearly in sight and our mission remains as relevant and necessary as ever—to provide safe, stable, and affordable housing to the people of the Pikes Peak region. We are committed to the ascent ahead.
Founder’s Wall Installation
In honor of Claudia Deats Rodgers and the vision and impact she has brought to Greccio Housing and the Pikes Peak community, a Founder’s Wall was dedicated in the lobby of our administration building in August of 2025. This permanent tribute features historical photographs and an enduring message from Claudia sharing insight into the organization’s beginnings. In doing so, it is a permanent reminder of our origin and the heart of our mission that was so firmly founded decades ago. It stands as a charge to those who will carry the mission into the coming years, to remember the reason for our founding, and the heart and hands that are necessary to carry it forward.
WE INVITE YOU TO EXPLORE OUR HISTORY THROUGH THE FOUNDER’S WALL AND HISTORICAL TIMELINE, AND CONNECT WITH THE STORY OF THE PEOPLE
WHO MADE OUR MISSION POSSIBLE BY SCHEDULING A VISIT TO THE GRECCIO ADMIN OFFICE, LOCATED AT:
1015 E. PIKES PEAK AVE., STE 110, COLORADO SPRINGS
35th Anniversary Celebration
Our 35th Anniversary event was a moment to pause, reflect on, and celebrate Greccio’s rich history and enduring mission. Through stories, historical photos, and a personal message from Claudia, we honored our founding members, past and current Board members and staff, and decades of volunteers, champions, and supporters.
We were also joined by Greccio resident, Sarah (name has been changed for privacy), who shared her powerful testimony. A domestic violence survivor who escaped with her children after battling cancer, Sarah spoke about navigating housing instability, financial hardship, and single parenthood during the COVID-19 pandemic. After finding stability through Greccio Housing in 2021, she described how Greccio and our Resident Resources helped her family regain their footing. Today, Sarah is pursuing long-term personal and professional goals and has been accepted into nursing school, working toward a BSN degree and her dream of one day becoming a homeowner.
The me mories shared, along with Sarah’s powerful testimony, reflect the heart of our work over the past 35 years. They demonstrate how housing stability and supportive programs not only transform individual lives, but also impact entire generations and the communities they call home.
Pictured: Greccio Housing Executive Director, Lee Patke, Presenting at Greccio’s 35th Anniversary Event
Pictured: Claudia Deats Rodgers Viewing the Founder’s Wall at the Installation Reveal Gathering
Resident Spotlight: Gordon & Thea Platt
Greccio Housing Residents for 13 Years
When Gordon met Thea 37 years ago in Glen Haven, Colorado, they quickly fell in love. “When I met her, there was this resonance. I just felt that I knew her,” Gordon shared. Though both valued their independence, they chose to build a life together and married the following year. They soon moved to Colorado Springs, purchased a home, and created a plan to pay it off. “My sister lived with us, so there were three of us working to pay for the house,” Thea explained.
That plan unraveled unexpectedly. Layoffs at Thea’s job left her unemployed, and soon after, she suffered a stroke. Around the same time, her sister experienced a severe stroke that left her unable to work. With only Gordon’s income, the couple struggled to stay afloat. When Gordon later faced his own medical emergency, they found themselves in a financial crisis and facing the loss of their home.
As they searched for housing within their new budget, the Platts realized income-qualified housing was one of their only options—a difficult reality for a couple who took deep pride in their ability to care for themselves. “It was difficult to admit that I needed help. That was an emotional step to take,” Thea shared. Pushing past those feelings, she visited the Greccio office, where she unexpectedly ran into a close friend who was also seeking affordable housing. “It was like, ‘Okay, we can live here.’ Having that familiar face made it feel a little bit better.”
Gordon was still reluctant when they received the news that their application was accepted. After touring the apartment, though, which was located beside a large park, with a towering blue spruce just outside their window, he knew they found their new home.
GRECCIO IS A WONDERFUL LANDLORD. THERE ARE SO MANY THINGS THAT ARE OFFERED. IT’S A REAL SUPPORTIVE SYSTEM. — THEA PLATT, GRECCIO RESIDENT
Once settled, Gordon and Thea committed to making the most of their new circumstances. They began using Greccio’s resident resources and built relationships with staff. When the Resident Resources team asked for help at Greccio’s growing food pantry, the Platts gladly volunteered. Their involvement deepened, and when a seat opened on the Greccio Board, Thea was invited to serve as a resident representative. “I had no idea that that was a possibility! I was happy to.” More than 10 years later, she continues to serve, offering valuable insight into residents’ experiences and needs.
Gordon still volunteers weekly at the pantry, helping with food pickups, organization, and distribution. He enjoys supporting fellow residents and encouraging gratitude. “I definitely preach being appreciative of what you’re getting for free … It’s high-quality, natural food,” he shared. “It’s become even more important now with food stamps being pulled away.”
After decades of unexpected challenges, Gordon and Thea have found stability, purpose, and peace. “I have been fond of saying that Greccio has saved our lives,” Thea reflected. “Greccio is a wonderful landlord. There are so many things that are offered. It’s a real supportive system.”
2024/2025 Financial Statement
Greccio Housing Unlimited
REVENUE & SUPPORT
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Cristal Hubbard
In 2020, Cristal joined the Resident Resources team as the Resource Admin Coordinator. From handling programs-related communications, to tracking spending for grants, to managing special programs like our Eyeglass Program, Veterinary Clinic Program, and Adopt-A-Family Program, her work provides vital and direct support to both Greccio team members and our residents. A true “plug-and-play” employee, she has also assisted many additional departments whenever needs arise. In her 5 years at Greccio, she has helped with
Resident Resources
STABILITY THROUGH PARTNERSHIP: SUPPORTING RESIDENTS IN A CHALLENGING YEAR
The Resident Resources Department represents our knowledge that it is the nexus of affordability and support that provides true housing and family stability. Our small but mighty team of three (and dozens of volunteers) is dedicated to providing support and opportunities that equip residents to expand their skills, provide for themselves and their families, and grow into stable, self-sustaining members of the community.
Reflecting on our three and a half decades of service, we cannot overstate the importance of our community partners. As our list of communities has grown, so has the need for corporations, organizations, and individuals who are willing to offer their skillsets, resources, and time to help empower Greccio residents.
Several long-standing partnerships provided critical support during the unexpected challenges our community faced in the last quarter of 2025. Existing ‘internal’ offerings combined with supportive community partnerships proved essential as nationwide policy changes created unforeseen economic hurdles, including rising costs for essential goods and a temporary freeze on SNAP benefits.
Thanks to the expertise of the Greccio team and the generosity of partners, such as Sprouts Farmers Market, Trader Joe’s, Fresh Start Center, and the Pikes Peak Kiwanis Club, we were able to ensure no resident went hungry and that those in need received a full Thanksgiving dinner.
We are endlessly grateful for the individuals and organizations who make our work possible. Their dedication not only supports the immediate needs of our residents, but also strengthens families, builds community resilience, and helps ensure that every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
TO
SUPPORT
THESE VITAL RESOURCES,
PLEASE CONSIDER GIVING A DONATION TODAY.
3,100
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF TIMES RESIDENTS ACCESSED THE “NO-COST” FOOD PANTRY.
33
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF RESIDENTS WHO RECEIVED VITAL EVICTION PREVENTION FUNDS AND REMAINED IN THEIR HOMES.
22
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF CHILDREN WHO PARTICIPATED IN OUR FIRST SUMMER READING PROGRAM.
THE POSITIVE STORIES FROM EVERY SINGLE PARENT OF THOSE ENROLLED CHILDREN
SPOKE VOLUMES OF HOW MUCH OF A BENEFICIAL PROGRAM THIS WAS TO OUR CHILDREN.
— RACHEL, PARENT OF SUMMER READING PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers play a vital role in bridging the gap between need and opportunity at Greccio Housing. As families face unexpected challenges, we rely on the generosity of community members who dedicate their time and talents to supporting our programs and serving alongside our staff. Their willingness to show up, whether through hands-on service, special events, or behind-the-scenes support, helps make our work possible and ensures residents feel supported, valued, and connected to a caring community. To learn more about our volunteer opportunities, please contact Resident Resources at 719-419-5609 or ResidentResources@greccio.org.
3,846
THE TOTAL NUMBER OF VOLUNTEER HOURS SPENT SUPPORTING RESIDENT RESOURCES & PROGRAMS.
Pictured: Young Resident Participating in our Cooking Matters Class
Pictured: Resident and Volunteer, Carrie, Assisting at the Weekly Greccio Pantry
Greccio’s mission is dependent on safe, updated, and livable communities, and we relentlessly pursue expansion wherever reasonable, responsible, and needed. This is evident in expansion efforts through new construction, acquisition, adaptive reuse, and third-party property management. Effective portfolio management also includes preservation of existing units, and even the rare sale of a property when it is beyond its useful life. This year includes examples of many of those strategies: breaking ground on a new senior property, managing a partnership-developed expansion, preparing for the acquisition of an existing property, continuing a multi-year Preservation Effort, and even the sale of a property that was no longer viable. All have been necessary to keep and maintain only the most appropriate properties for our adult and child residents to build their lives.
BENTLEY COMMONS GRAND OPENING
On October 7, 2025, Greccio Housing and its project partners celebrated the ribbon-cutting ceremony and official grand opening of Bentley Commons. Developed in partnership with Partners in Housing and Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust, Bentley Commons includes 24 renovated apartments and 168 newly constructed units. Of these, 28 apartments are designated for previously homeless U.S. military veterans through the HUD-VASH Program.
Bentley Commons offers a range of resident-centered amenities, including a multi-purpose clubhouse, playgrounds, recreational spaces, and electric vehicle charging stations. This development represents a significant addition to Greccio Housing’s portfolio and reflects our ongoing commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable housing that serves diverse community needs.
PIKES PEAK SALE
Purchased alongside Clark Mellen in 2000, Pikes Peak Apartments was one of Greccio Housing’s earliest property acquisitions. Originally built in 1948, this historic community was affectionately known as the “String of Amber.” As the property aged and maintenance needs increased beyond what was sustainable, Greccio made the strategic decision to sell the property and respectfully relocate all residents to other Greccio properties, ensuring continued affordability, stability, and support.
Pictured: The Historic Community of Pikes Peak Apartments
Pictured: Ribbon Cutting at the Bentley Commons Grand Opening
SUNRISE AT SHILOH MESA PROGRESS
In July 2025, we celebrated a major milestone with the official groundbreaking of Sunrise at Shiloh Mesa, moving this long-anticipated affordable senior housing development from planning into construction. Developed in partnership with Woodmen Valley Chapel and the Center for Strategic Ministry, the four-story, 50-unit community is now visibly taking shape in northeast Colorado Springs. Integral to the new property are local architects, Way Architects, general contractor, Alliance Construction, and development consultant, Medici Development Group.
Designed to provide permanently affordable housing for seniors, the community will feature accessible design, shared gathering spaces, and thoughtful amenities that support independence and social engagement. Shiloh Mesa is scheduled to open in summer 2026.
HYBROOK TOWNHOMES ACQUISITION
In 2025, Greccio Housing prepared for its permanent expansion into Teller County through the acquisition of Hybrook Townhomes, a 49-unit affordable housing community located in Divide, Colorado. The December 2025 acquisition is Greccio’s first owned property in Teller County and reflects our response to the housing needs of families with low incomes outside El Paso County. This opportunity also brings new funding partners, Pikes Peak Real Estate Foundation and Colorado Housing Accelerator Initiative, to the many others who have invested in Greccio properties.
PRESERVATION INITIATIVE
Projects in our multi-year Preservation Initiative included a number of upgrades and safety/security efforts across various properties, as well as a grant application and environmental assessments in preparation for several larger-scale projects in the coming year.
WOODBINE APTS.
• Hot water boiler system and storage tanks replacement, roof maintenance & major backyard landscape project with installatio n of commercial playset
SANTA FE APTS.
• Security upgrades for all three buildings
NORTH WEBER APTS.
• Repairs and maintenance work on existing roof & heavy boiler system maintenance and repairs
UINTAH PARK APTS.
• Resident mailboxes updated to cluster-style boxes
CITADEL ARMS APTS.
• Building security upgrades
Originally constructed in 2005 and 2007 through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, Hybrook Townhomes offers spacious, well-designed homes with walkable access to healthcare, groceries, and other community resources, and is centrally located between Woodland Park and Cripple Creek. Planning efforts throughout 2025 focused on stewardship, ensuring long-term affordability and program integration into the unique and vibrant community.
Pictured: Construction Progress of Shiloh Mesa in November 2025
Pictured: Newly-renovated Backyard at Woodbine, Featuring a Commercial Playset
Pictured: Hybrook Townhomes in Divide, Colorado
Property Management
Effective property management is often thought of as straightforward and simple—take an application, sign a lease, replace a shower head, and turn over the apartment when a new resident comes along, right? Perspective can be found in the analogy of old shade-tree mechanics in simpler times: pop the hood, replace a belt, and change your own oil to save a few bucks. But like today’s automobiles that are highly complex, require special training and expertise, and can no longer be worked on by a teenager, so too is property management.
A professional property management team requires expertise in multiple areas: compliance, leasing, maintenance, and even service to residents. Proactive systems must be in place to ensure fair housing, ever-changing laws must be incorporated, funding streams with special covenants must be satisfied, and highly sophisticated IT infrastructures are the nervous system of it all. Once that’s in place, providing excellence in customer service is paramount. Today, Greccio Housing and Greccio Commercial Real Estate Services, LLC offer a well-trained and responsive team of experts to manage our own properties and those of others. We make the property management engine hum!
LEASING
The Greccio leasing team plays a vital role in ensuring our 29 owned or managed properties operate smoothly. More than half of our staff is dedicated to supporting current and future residents, focusing on filling our communities and meeting the ongoing needs of more than 1,400 individuals and families who call a Greccio property home.
From the first application through move-in and beyond, our leasing professionals guide residents through a clear, step-bystep process. This includes explaining eligibility requirements, such as property-specific income thresholds, and ensuring each resident fully understands their lease and the responsibilities that come with being part of the Greccio Housing community. By empowering residents with knowledge and support, our team helps create a strong foundation for longterm housing stability and success. Throughout all aspects of their work, the team adheres strictly to Fair Housing Act requirements, upholding the highest standards of fairness and compliance.
Through their dedication to safe, clean, and welcoming communities, the leasing team supports and maintains stable, thriving environments where individuals and families can grow, succeed, and access new opportunities.
91.9%
AVERAGE OCCUPANCY RATE – (FISCAL YEAR 2024-25)
80.8%
PERCENTAGE OF RESIDENTS BELOW THE 50% AMI*
1,371
TOTAL NUMBER OF GRECCIO HOUSING RESIDENTS**
293
TOTAL NUMBER OF SENIOR RESIDENTS 62 & OLDER**
*Current AMI (Area Median Income) in Colorado Springs, CO as of 2024 **Data taken through October, 2024 • 30% AMI = $21,840 for an individual; $31,200 for a family of four • 50% AMI = $36,400 for an individual; $52,000 for a family of four • • 80% AMI = $58,240 for an individual; $83,200 for a family of four •
MAINTENANCE
The maintenance team consists of seven dedicated professionals who answer the call in rain, sun, or snow. From routine repairs to urgent issues, they ensure residents’ homes are functional, comfortable, and well-cared-for. Beyond fixing what’s broken, the team supports the overall quality of life in every property, creating environments that are welcoming and reliable. Often referred to as Greccio’s ‘first responders,’ their commitment is essential to providing safe, stable, and supportive homes for every resident.
THE ATRIUM AT AUSTIN BLUFFS
BENTLEY COMMONS
BIJOU APARTMENTS
THE CEDARS
CITADEL ARMS
CLARK MELLEN
COLORADO WEST
EAST HILLS
ENFIELD
#2 (1 UNIT) M & O PROPERTY #3 (2 UNITS)
M & O PROPERTY #4 (4 UNITS) NORTH WEBER
THE PINES APARTMENTS
PLAZA ON PLATTE
THE RIDGE
ROCKY MOUNTAIN
SANTA FE APARTMENTS
UINTAH PARK
UINTAH
Resident Spotlight: Lole
Montes
Greccio Housing Resident for 2 Years
When Lole and her family left Honolulu, HI for Colorado Springs in 2020, they weren’t just chasing a fresh start— they were trying to survive. Life on the island had become unsustainably expensive, and meeting everyday expenses while managing the medical needs of her husband, Luis, was increasingly difficult. A close friend invited them to live with her family in the Springs, which they gratefully accepted, but Lole knew it was a short-term solution. “I had to find us a stable place to give them their own privacy back.” Soon, they found a basement for rent on Facebook Marketplace. It was affordable, but the living situation had significant challenges. Lole knew they needed their own space and more income to make that possible.
Their savings went toward purchasing a vehicle, and Lole began the process of transferring her massage therapist license to Colorado so she could work. They also began searching for a stable, affordable place to live, particularly a place that would also allow her husband, who was on dialysis and in a wheelchair, to get in and out of their home independently.
During their search, they discovered Greccio Housing. Initially, they didn’t qualify for housing, due to their income, but Lole wasn’t deterred. “They were really honest. They told me my income wasn’t looking great. And I said, ‘Obviously you don’t know me, but let me just get my feet on the ground and I’m going to show you.’” Determined to qualify, Lole focused on increasing her family’s income as a massage therapist, while pursuing a second job as a flight attendant. Soon after, their income met the minimum requirements to qualify.
In July of 2023, they moved into their new Greccio apartment.
“The stress just melted away. We finally have our own space… where we can just focus on ourselves, our growth, and my husband’s health,” Lole explained. Their apartment was also wheelchair accessible, making it possible for Luis to go to and from his dialysis appointments without assistance.
Since moving in, the family’s quality of life has drastically improved. “Back home, I was really stressed out every month. Now I can focus on car payments, insurance, and all the extra stuff.” In addition to strengthening their financial stability, they’ve taken advantage of our Resident Resources Program. Each week, Lole visits the Greccio food pantry, offering rides to neighbors who didn’t have a vehicle. Their daughter, Tiare, has also benefited from our programs. She applied for a scholarship through the GRACE (Greccio Residents Advancing Careers through Education) program to assist with training as an Automotive Collision Services specialist. She was awarded $2,000 in both 2024 and 2025.
Now, stable, safe, and settled, their family is thriving. “It wasn’t easy. I got rejected a thousand times, but I believed I could do it. Greccio gave me hope. They were just that lighthouse,” Lole shares. “I’ve never been so happy in my life.” As they continue building their life in Colorado Springs, Lole is determined to pass on the kindness she received. “You share, you give, you forgive. You don’t have to spend money on it. Just be a good person. It always comes back to you in unexpected ways—not in the way that you give it—but it always comes back.”
60,448.51 THE TOTAL NUMBER OF EMPLOYEE HOURS SPENT THIS YEAR EMPOWERING RESIDENTS THROUGH STABLE, SAFE, AND SUPPORTIVE HOUSING, AS WELL AS PROVIDING RESOURCES.
Pictured: Tiare with Claudia Deats Rodgers After Receiving Her Scholarship from the GRACE Program
GRECCIO GAVE ME HOPE. THEY WERE JUST THAT LIGHTHOUSE. I’VE NEVER BEEN SO HAPPY IN MY LIFE. — LOLE MONTES, GRECCIO RESIDENT
GRECCIO.ORG • (719) 475-1422
1015 E. PIKES PEAK AVE. STE 110, COLORADO
SPRINGS, CO 80903
Thank you to our community of sponsors, partners, and friends for another amazing year!
