Welcome to The Acumen, a Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce monthly publication. Stay up-to-date with the latest news for Black business in Colorado. Read, enjoy, and share with your networks!
THE ACUMEN April 2024
BRAVERY, BOLDNESS, & COMMUNITY SERVICE A Conversation With The Montbello Organizing Committee’s Khadija Haynes
BY DR. ANGELIC COLE
BY TIANA PATTERSON HOME IS JUST THE BEGINNING
BY GERRI GOMEZ HOWARD STORYTELLING AND CONNECTIONS
BY VANESSA BEASLEY BEST-IN-CLASS SERVICE IN CO
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CONTENTS
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14 NEW HOME SOLUTIONS Elevation Community Land Trust is not your typical housing organization. Mentorship with The Montbello Organizing Committee’s Khadija Haynes. 8 GUIDANCE ON CALL and interests of the Board Members of the CBCC. 6 BULLETIN BOARD Get an inside look at the lives 26 BEST-IN-CLASS SERVICE AirBnB is helping Colorado resident’s create local, unique experiences. 20 MEANINGFUL STORIES The Gomez Howard Group has been captivating with stories for over 20 years.
35 CHAMPIONING STUDENTS Colorado Succeeds is helping our learners achieve their full potential. 41 DEVELOPING COLORADO Burgess Services has been an essential part of the Colorado community for over 50 years. 32 BUILDING CAPACITY DSBO Mentor-Protege Program sets Colorado businesses up for success. 30 EMPOWERING FUTURES KMG Consulting Services LLC empowers individuals and organizations.
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49 ON THE MOVE
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Highlighting our Black businesses’ impact to the community.
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Contributors
Editor Alisha Harris, Original Account Strategies Photographer Shameka McBoat, McBoat Photography Contributing Writers
Vanessa Beasley, Mark Brown, Denise Burgess, Dr. Angelic Cole, Kristen M. Guiseppi, Gerri Gomez Howard, Tiana Patterson, Susan Liehe, Kayo Olowu, Jamie Smith, Rachel Van Brocklin, Carroll Woodard
Contributing Member Companies
KMG Consulting Services LLC
Sunrise Vendors
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President’s Corner
Celebrating Black Women’s History and the Impact of Women Entrepreneurs
Dear Reader: While Black History Month is celebrated in February, it is important to recognize that the contributions of Black women to American society are so significant and multifaceted that they cannot be contained within a single month. This is why April has been designated as Black Women’s History Month. April is the perfect time to celebrate the legacy of Black women in America. Not only does it coincide with spring and a season of renewal and growth, but it is also a time when the country recognizes the contributions of women during National Women’s History Month. The celebration of Black Women’s History Month in April highlights the intersectionality of race and gender and recognizes the unique challenges that Black women have faced throughout history. It is an opportunity to honor the contributions of Black women who have been instrumental in shaping American society, and to recognize their struggles and achievements. One such trailblazer is Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress. During her tenure, she championed issues such as racial and gender equality, education, and healthcare. She also ran for President in 1972, becoming the first Black person to seek a major party nomination for the presidency. Another important figure is Dorothy Height, who was a leader in the civil rights movement and advocated for the rights of women and minorities. She served as the president of the National Council of Negro Women for over 40 years and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994. Black women have also been pioneers in the arts, with notable figures such as Nina Simone, Audre Lorde, and Zora Neale Hurston. Their work has
had a profound impact on American culture and has helped to shape our understanding of race, gender, and identity. Black Women’s History Month in April is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of Black women to American society and to acknowledge their unique experiences and struggles. It is also a time to reflect on the progress that has been made towards equality and to recognize the work that still needs to be done. As we celebrate Black Women’s History Month in April, let us take the time to honor the legacy of Black women who have paved the way for future generations such as Khadija Haynes featured in our April issue. Let us also recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of achieving equality and justice for all.
Dr. Angelic Cole President & CEO Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce
“You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.” Michelle Obama
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Bulletin Board
Brown has spent a successful career in the technology and communications industry working in leadership roles for industry leading companies including Charter Communications, AT&T, Qwest and BroadRiver Communications. Working in the government affairs and legal arenas is his sweet spot. In addition to serving as General Counsel for BroadRiver, Mark has held senior counsel and vice president roles in Government and State Regulatory Affairs for Comcast and, previously, Charter Communications in Atlanta and Washington, D.C. As part of his professional responsibilities, he has sat on numerous industry boards, including Governor appointment to the Alabama 911 Oversight Board; Co-Chair of the Atlanta Chapter of the Federal Communications Bar Association; and the state Cable Association Boards in California, Texas, and Michigan. He enjoys developing state regulatory strategy, working through compliance and legislative matters as well as fortifying relationships at work, in the community and in his personal life. Brown earned his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College, where he was an honors graduate and Senior Fellow, and his law degree from Harvard Law School. He also pursued graduate study in Economics and International Relations at the University of Stockholm as a Rotary Graduate Fellow. He enjoys sharing his professional experiences to make a difference for Comcast and wherever he serves. Brown has proudly sat on the board of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) for the past year and has appreciated the opportunity to support its mission, including its national search for the CBCC’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, Angelic Cole. When he learned about the CBCC and how it aligned with his own
We invite you to learn more about the dynamic CBCC board members.
Vice President, Regulatory Affairs Comcast
Meet Mark Brown Board Member
Nearly five years ago, Brown left the Atlanta area and headed west to work for Comcast – a company that proudly cares about connecting people to moments that matter. He believed in the company’s vision, strong culture, and reputation for being an active part of the community. Brown is responsible for overseeing and implementing state regulatory and public policy strategy across 13 states for Comcast’s West Division. He collaboratively works with state Government Affairs colleagues to find resolutions to state regulatory proceedings that impact the company’s ability to deliver broadband services to residents and businesses.
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passion for encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit within the African American community, he knew he wanted to be a part of the organization. He has enjoyed learning about the African American business landscape in Colorado and understanding the hurdles that businesses face. He hopes to be a positive influence on the Chamber so that its business members can continue to make a positive impact on the community.
Brown would tell you that the greatest experience he had at Harvard Law School was meeting his wife of 37 years, Cheryl. Together, they have two adult children that equally make an impact where they live and work. One son, Matthew, is a D.C.- based journalist for the Associated Press and his other son, Kaiden, works in Psychiatric Patient Care at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz facility. Mark is a jazz aficionado and welcomes recommendations for great places to enjoy the music in Denver.
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Guidance on Call
A Conversation withThe Montbello Organizaing Committee’s Khadija Haynes By DR.ANGELIC COLE
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Photo: McBoat Photography
Cole: What would you say is the primary motivating factor behind your leadership?
these movements was pushed by community and grassroots leadership, by average people - like my siblings and me - who decided they could fix systems that are broken.
Haynes: My Mother led my siblings and me to understand the importance of “If not you, then who?” We grew up believing in our personal power, our communities’ collective power to right wrongs, and our responsibility to advocate for those without voice or access.
She was wise enough to ensure that we understood and witnessed the significant
strides and accomplishments for marginalized communities in America via the Civil Rights Bus strike, sit-ins, and nonviolence Movement; the Farmworkers strike and movement in California; the Coors Brewing strike; the Black Panther Party; the Rainbow Coalition; the Black Lives Matter movement; the Crusade for Justice movement; the Women’s movement, the LGBTQ movement, the Me, Too movement, and so many others. Each of
Photo: McBoat Photography
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Cole: Who are your role models, and what life- changing lessons did you pick up from them?
Haynes: Many women (locally and nationally) have been inspirational and influential in my life ... Women like Shirley Chisolm and Maxine Watters in politics; Oprah and Caroline Wanga in the business world; and Ruby Dee and Josephine Baker in the Arts. But, unless you can see the inner workings of a person’s life, how they make choices, how their values live through their work and family life, there is very little you can actually use as a model. For that reason, my role models are people whose lives and choices I have been able to witness closely - my siblings, my mother, my aunts and cousins, my friends who have lived and are living a life of bravery, boldness, and community service. These are the people that I want to be like. Cole: How do you ensure that others benefit from the life-changing knowledge you gained from your mentors? Haynes: I actively mentor. I’ve been around for a while, so I have learned a few things. The people I mentor will tell you that it is important to me to share my experiences with anyone who asks.
Photo: McBoat Photography
Cole: What do you believe to be the most important piece of advice for a leader to follow?
Cole: What advice do you wish someone had given you earlier in your career?
Haynes: If you are lonely at the top, it’s because you didn’t bring anyone with you. Be honest. Be patient. Give grace. LISTEN. Be receptive to advice. Maintain a sense of humor. Cole: How do you prioritize work-life balance, and what advice do you have for junior professionals who are struggling to find balance. Haynes: I schedule time for the people and things that bring me joy the same way I schedule meetings. Sometimes those “meetings” can served double duty, which is a bonus.
Haynes: You don’t need to make a career choice early in life. There’s plenty of time to find your special niche. Be open to adventure and exploration.
Cole: What inspired you to pursue a career in community service, and how did you get started?
Haynes: I’m not sure I would characterize community service as my career. My community work is how I live my values.
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Cole: April is Black Women’s History Month. Who would you celebrate that may not always be recognized but play a vital role in your life? Haynes: I am particularly grateful for the numerous Black women who have been like second mothers, most of whom are or were members of my beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. These ‘older/wiser’ women are on speed dial in my phone. I call them frequently and they are quick to give me a ‘guidance’ call.
Cole: What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the community today, and how do you see ways to overcome them? Haynes: I believe some of our biggest community challenges include poor and inequitable public education, economic disparity, and the lack of a secure financial foundation from which to take risks. We also lack broadcast media ownership and have insufficient representation in public policy decisions. I am fortified by the extraordinary things being accomplished by the people and nonprofits in our community working tirelessly on these challenges. What’s more, I am fortunate to work with and on behalf of so many of these incredible people and organizations. The list of fantastic community organizations that I interact with most include Montbello Organizing Committee and all their partner organizations, Metro DEEP, RootED, CHIC, FaithBridge, Sistah Biz, the BRIC Fund, and of course, the work of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce. It must be noted that key to these organizations’ success is the ongoing investments made by forward thinking foundations and individuals.
Cole: As an African American woman leader, what do you consider to be one of the most difficult obstacles you’ve faced?
Haynes: Being Black and a woman are the most difficult obstacles.
Cole: What do you see your legacy looking like?
Haynes: A year ago, I might have had a quick answer to this question, but today, after spending this last year as a member of Cohort Two of The Highland Project ( thehighlandproject.org ) exploring this very question - but expanded out seven generations - I have come to believe legacies are determined by others after you are gone.
Photo: McBoat Photography
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“If you are lonely at the top, it’s because you didn’t bring anyone with you.” Photo: McBoat Photography
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Elevation Community Land Trust: Home is Just the Beginning
By TIANA PATTERSON
Elevation Community Land Trust (ECLT) is different from your typical housing organization. It’s part of a movement born out of necessity. It’s driven by the simple belief that everyone deserves a shot at homeownership, regardless of historical barriers, including income, background, race, or ethnicity.. A Homegrown Solution Colorado desperately needs affordable homeownership options. Potential buyers face skyrocketing rents and a housing market seemingly out of reach. In 2017, ECLT entered the scene to bring the dream of homeownership within reach for low- to moderate-income families across Colorado. Drawing inspiration from successful models around the country, ECLT adopted the Community Land Trust (CLT) approach, a proven method for preserving affordability in perpetuity. The CLT Model in Action The CLT model means ECLT retains ownership of the land while selling homes at reduced prices to qualifying families (those at about 80% Area Median Income). This unique approach not only makes homeownership more accessible but also ensures that homes remain affordable for generations to come. By separating ownership of the land from the home, ECLT creates a pathway to ownership for families who might otherwise be priced out of the market. Moreover, our shared-equity model ensures that homeowners participate in market appreciation during their tenure, allowing them to build wealth and stability for the future.
(Photo: Elevation Community Land Trust)
A Range of Offerings At ECLT, we understand that finding the perfect home is a significant step toward achieving family stability and security. That’s why we offer diverse housing options through our property listings, catering to various preferences and needs. Whether you are looking for a cozy single-family home, a modern townhouse, or a convenient condominium, ECLT has something for everyone. Our properties are strategically located in neighborhoods with essential amenities such as schools, parks, and public transportation, ensuring that ECLT homeowners can thrive in their new homes. Below are a couple of our newest housing communities. To explore all of our available listings and recent housing developments, visit https://www.elevationclt.org/property-listings. Fully qualified applicants with ECLT can access our property listings on a waitlist basis, allowing you to find the perfect home that fits your needs
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BirdWhistle Townhomes Named after Charles and Mamie Birdwhistle, esteemed figures in Fort Collins’ history, this landmark affordable housing development embodies Elevation Community Land Trust’s commitment to creating accessible living spaces while honoring the legacies of those who shaped our communities. Today, BirdWhistle Townhomes offers 54 permanently affordable residences with convenient access to schools, shopping centers, and parks, which not only provide housing but also strengthen the social fabric of Fort Collins. For more information, visit birdwhistlefortcollins. com.
and budget. Start your search today and take the first step towards owning a home with Elevation Community Land Trust.
The Burrell Situated in the heart of Five Points, The Burrell presents a rare opportunity with 49 permanently affordable condos starting at $205K. Inspired by the legacy of the legendary musician Charles Burrell, this development embodies a fusion of affordability and cultural homage, offering residents a chance to own a piece of history while embracing the vibrant energy of Denver’s iconic neighborhood. For more information, visit: www. theburrelldenver.com.
(Photo: Elevation Community Land Trust)
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Programs and Initiatives In addition to our core homeownership program, ECLT offers a range of programs and initiatives designed to support families throughout their homeownership journey. These programs include financial literacy workshops to help families build the skills and knowledge to manage their finances effectively. From budgeting and saving to understanding mortgage options, these workshops equip homeowners to make informed decisions about their financial futures.
We also offer homebuyer education courses to prepare families for the responsibilities of homeownership. These courses cover home maintenance, property taxes, and insurance, equipping homeowners with the tools they need to succeed. Furthermore, ECLT provides ongoing support to homeowners after they purchase their homes. Whether connecting families with community resources or assisting with home repairs, we are committed to ensuring that homeowners have the support they need to thrive.
(Photo: Elevation Community Land Trust)
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(Photo: Elevation Community Land Trust)
Down Payment Assistance For many, one of the biggest hurdles in buying a home is coming up with a down payment. That’s why ECLT offers the Doors to Opportunity program, which makes homeownership more accessible by providing down payment assistance loans of up to $50,000*. This program aims to empower potential homebuyers to find their ideal home anywhere in Colorado, offering flexibility in choosing neighborhoods, home styles, and yards that meet their family’s needs. With Doors, individuals are encouraged to invest in themselves and experience the freedoms of homeownership.
*Contact Elevation CLT to learn about accessing additional funding to increase your total down payment to $150,000 potentially.
Real Impact, Real People Since our founding, ECLT has made a tangible difference in the lives of hundreds of families across Colorado. Take the story of Charlene Taylor, a single mother who had been renting for years, struggling to make ends meet on a modest income. When her rent skyrocketed, Charlene faced the very real possibility of being priced out of her community. But thanks to ECLT, Charlene was able to purchase her own home at
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a price she could afford. No longer at the mercy of landlords or rising rents, Charlene and her son finally had a place to call their own—a stable, secure foundation on which to build their future. And Charlene’s story is just one of many. Since its inception, ECLT has assisted over 200 families in achieving the dream of homeownership. From young couples just starting out to retirees looking to downsize, we serve a diverse range of clients, each with a unique story. Building Community, One Home at a Time Our impact extends far beyond the individual families we serve. By bringing affordable homeownership to neighborhoods across Denver and beyond, we are helping to build stronger, more resilient communities. In Aurora, where housing affordability has become an increasingly pressing issue, our presence is making a real difference. By partnering with local governments, private developers, community-based organizations, and the philanthropic community, we are able to leverage our resources to make homeownership accessible to families who might otherwise be priced out of the market. Challenges and Opportunities Of course, our journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From navigating complex regulatory landscapes to dispelling misconceptions about the CLT model, we have faced our fair share of obstacles along the way. But through it all, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to our mission. With a dedicated team of staff members and volunteers, we have continued to push forward, finding creative solutions to even the most daunting of challenges. And as we look to the future, we see a world of opportunity on the horizon. With plans to expand our reach to communities across the state, we are poised to make an even greater impact in the coming years.
Legislative Support and Advocacy
In our ongoing efforts to advocate for affordable housing, we recognize the importance of legislative support. At ECLT, we understand that we can’t tackle the housing crisis alone. That’s why we’ve been actively engaging with policymakers at all levels of government. For instance, to address the estimated shortage of up to 173,000 housing units in our most populous counties, we advocated for Senate Bill 24-106, the Right to Remedy Construction Defects, to increase affordable housing options by tackling issues like construction liability and expanding homeownership opportunities. This type of legislation is crucial given the scarcity of affordable housing types, such as condominiums, which have become increasingly unattainable for many Coloradans. A Brighter Future Ahead We are filled with hope and optimism as we look ahead to the next chapter of our journey. With a growing network of supporters and a track record of success, we are poised to continue making a real difference in the lives of families across Colorado. But perhaps most importantly, we remain rooted in the belief that change starts at the grassroots level. By equipping communities to take control of their own destinies, we are proving that when people come together, anything is possible. In the end, our story is not just about affordable housing; it’s about the power of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home and that home is just the beginning of a journey toward stability, security, and prosperity for all, not just some.
To learn more about Elevation Community Land Trust and our programs and initiatives, visit www. elevationclt.org.
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The Gomez Howard Group: Celebrating 20 Years of Storytelling
By GERRI GOMEZ HOWARD
My mom—at 92 years young—has the ability to captivate others with her stories. She’s sharp and funny, with a knack for recalling details; the littlest things that might seem, to some, insignificant or irrelevant. To me, however, the details shape rich, engaging, entertaining, meaningful stories. The details are what I remember. Storytelling has always been important in my family and, of course, in Black families and communities around the world. We tell stories over food, in the car or wherever we gather in our neighborhoods. We tell stories so we don’t forget
Jacque, Justin and Jacob Howard. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
where we’ve come from or where we’re going. With this long legacy and with my mom, a natural storyteller, and my grandfather, an entrepreneur, it’s no surprise I started my own business with storytelling at the heart of what I do. I started the Gomez Howard Group 20 years ago. It’s an integrated cause marketing and communications business. So, what does that mean? Well, in simpler terms, my team works with organizations—or causes—in Colorado to tell their stories. We connect clients with news media—very successfully, I’d add—to share the good work their programs and initiatives are doing for others. We also design strategic marketing and communications plans with our clients and help them navigate the challenges or crises they encounter along the way. We help connect organizations with their constituents to increase awareness and access to needed information and resources. And, perhaps most importantly, we help them leverage earned and owned media and strategic communications to maximize their impact on others.
Gerri’s grandfather with her mother. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
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Our work isn’t always easy, but it’s rewarding, and every day we see the difference we make for our clients. How We Started After an 18-year career in broadcast television, I was exhausted. I was working around the clock, and I was a mom to three young kids during a time when my husband’s work took him across the globe. I wanted to reprioritize my career and my life and give myself more time with my family. And I wanted to continue to find ways to do meaningful work for my community. During my time in broadcast, I gravitated toward stories that came from our communities, stories that uplifted and inspired, and stories about organizations that were making a difference in the lives of others. When I made the decision to step away from my career in broadcast television, my biggest fear was that I was leaving a perfectly good job with stability and benefits. But I knew that I could do something bigger; something that would marry my love for storytelling with my entrepreneurial spirit, which comes from my grandfather. He was an entrepreneur in the 1940s and 1950s. Despite my grandmother’s warnings, he opened his own tailor shop in Brooklyn. My grandmother was afraid for him. She was afraid for his safety and that others wouldn’t want to pay him for his work. A brilliant tailor, he persisted, and he was rewarded with loyal customers who came from all over New York’s boroughs and from neighboring states for his services. He owned his shop for 23 years, but the commute from Queens to Brooklyn was daunting, so eventually he closed his business and went back to work in a local shop, sharing his talent with new customers. My grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit lived on in me, so in 2004, despite my fears, I bet on myself, took a leap of faith and registered my business, the Gomez Howard Group. The first years of owning my own business weren’t always easy, and I needed to learn how to assign a monetary value to my unique set of skills
Howard family volunteering on Christmas Eve at the Food Bank of the Rockies. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
and the time it would take me to do the work. That can be challenging for new entrepreneurs. It can also be difficult to navigate the administrative demands of a new business—accounting, bookkeeping and finance, to name a few. I was fortunate to have my husband Jeff, whose unwavering support made the early years easier to find my way. He was my biggest supporter and, over time, joined me in the business, and worked with me for nearly a decade. Jeff’s experience in media, corporate communications, and audience engagement—coupled with his business acumen—helped us scale the business and our team. In the last 20 years, we’ve grown to a team of nine, and we’ve adapted to expand the services we provide to our clients. Our team members’ decades of experience and expertise— coupled with their empathy, compassion, and authenticity—have helped us establish trust with our roster of more than a dozen clients, who trust us to share their stories with our communities. Many of our clients have been with us for more than a decade. Others engage us for shorter contracts, generally to help them create systems that better connect with their audiences or help to navigate a challenging situation.
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We’ve heard time and again how we’ve been a trusted and valued partner, both for their organizations and the people they serve, who, in many cases, are from underrepresented communities. Regardless of whether a client is long or short term, we want them to understand what they need to be successful in their messaging—and why investing in communications is always important. Why Businesses Should Prioritize Communications In the last 20 years, I’ve seen what happens when businesses and organizations prioritize their communications—and what happens when they don’t (spoiler alert: it’s not good). Thoughtful, strategic, consistent internal and external communication is essential to every organization and business. They will, inevitably, need an effective communications strategy to scale their operations, reach new audiences, or traverse challenging terrain.
That’s where the Gomez Howard Group has helped. Through traditional and less-traditional methods, we’ve helped dozens of nonprofit organizations, state agencies and businesses develop deeper connections with their communities, donors and volunteers. Our team of community connectors participates in more than 60 events every year, representing our clients and connecting one-on- one with people in our state. We’ve helped organizations advertise their services, so more people have access to resources, and we’ve helped them secure valuable television, print, and radio coverage. We’ve also stood alongside our clients and assisted them in navigating crises—a sudden transition in leadership, a loss of funding, or a sudden end to services, for example. Our work has resulted in authentic, meaningful, and mutually beneficial partnerships that help our clients advance the greater good. Our experience in this work helps us employ timeless engagement strategies (and take a few calculated steps outside of the box). Our team stays in the know about what’s happening in the ever-evolving media landscape. We understand how to provide relevant stories to the media, and we’re sticklers for accuracy. Despite changes in media and how stories are shared on various platforms, we still believe earned media comes down to the basics: know what makes a good story and know how to tell it. We’ve helped clients transform their communications and events by understanding their goals and developing sustainable practices. We have precise attention to detail and a unique ability to offer insight on strategic planning, video production, social media, email marketing, web design, podcasts, and more. This kind of work can help organizations tell their stories in cost-effective, impactful ways.
Gerri and Jeff Howard at the Women’s Foundation of Colorado Michelle Obama event. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
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I’ve found team members who want to do work that excites them and benefits others. I’ve provided them the flexibility to work in other states and countries, to be a present partner or parent, to pursue other interests, or to be a caregiver for family members in need. I’m proud to say our work always gets done well, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of our own well-being. And, finally, of course, a large part of my legacy will be my business and the work we’ve done to share the stories of the organizations we’ve had the privilege to support. We’ve worked with smaller organizations that need to create a strong infrastructure, and large, reputable organizations that are ready to scale to new heights. We’ve shared their stories which highlight so many fundamental services—mental health support, food, housing, education, and more. And I strongly believe the stories we’ve helped to tell have enriched, sustained and saved countless lives. I believe the Gomez Howard Group has become an integral part of the nonprofit community in Colorado. Perhaps more importantly, we have become a trusted and needed partner for underrepresented and underserved communities, particularly communities of color. That’s a legacy I’m proud to leave—and a story I couldn’t be more proud to tell.
Our Legacy As we celebrate the Gomez Howard Group’s twentieth year in business, I’ve reflected on its legacy and my own. A part of my legacy will be my family. Though my dad took his last journey around the sun a few years back, his work ethic, words of wisdom and sense of adventure live on in me and my children. I’m celebrating 30 years of marriage and friendship with Jeff, who has been with me every step of the way on this journey. Ours is a true partnership, one I’m grateful for every day, and one I hope models unconditional love and support for our kids. I’ve also leaned into caregiving for my mother and my aunts. I’ve set aside time to sit with them, hear their stories, help them navigate health challenges, and teach them to adapt to a changing world. Through owning my own business, I’ve also been so fortunate to have more flexibility to watch my children grow and pursue their own passions. Of course, storytelling is a large part of what they love to do, and they tell stories through the arts, with each finding their own unique passion— acting, animation and music. Another important part of my legacy will be my team’s success and well-being. I started my business to reprioritize my own work-life balance, and I’ve been fortunate to extend that benefit to my team. Gomez Howard Group team retreat in Steamboat Springs. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
Gerri Howard, Alli Clymens and Niambi Nicholes School Supply Drive. (Photo: Gomez Howard Group)
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What the Gomez Howard Group’s Clients Say
“The Gomez Howard Group’s ability to capture the heart of our work and its impact, while creating a welcoming atmosphere for the community to support us, has created the nationally recognized Black Resilience in Colorado Fund. The GHG team centers community, providing communication and marketing excellence, inspiration, and lived experience. Under Gerri’s leadership, GHG creates strategies coupled with their deep knowledge and relationships in Colorado’s media landscape to perfectly connect their clients with optimal media opportunities.” LaDawn Sullivan, Executive Director of the Black Resilience in Colorado Fund
“Gomez Howard Group (GHG) is an exceptional strategic communications and public relations partner. Gerri and her team are responsive, trustworthy, and deeply committed to their clients’ missions. Their attention to detail, understanding of the community, and thoughtful approach ensure flawless execution. GHG fosters close relationships, making collaboration effortless. The team goes above and beyond—delivering exceptional results and adapting quickly to changing needs.” Latia Henderson, Partner, Strategic Initiatives and Communications, RootED Denver
“The Gomez Howard Group has been an invaluable partner for Make-A-Wish Colorado, providing exceptional strategic communications and public relations support. They consistently secure impactful coverage for Make-A-Wish Colorado in prominent media outlets, enhancing our visibility and outreach across the state. Gerri and her team’s commitment to our cause and their adept handling of various aspects of communication and media relations have played a crucial role in cultivating a positive and compelling narrative around the work we do for children with critical illnesses. Working with The Gomez Howard Group has helped to safeguard Make-A-Wish Colorado’s reputation and maintain the trust of our stakeholders, a critical component for the success of any organization.” Lauren Beede, Chief Development Officer, Make-A-Wish Colorado “The Gomez Howard Group has been a blessing and a gift to the Montbello Organizing Committee. From the moment they stepped in to help with marketing outreach and public relations, MOC’s public identity—locally and nationally—has expanded exponentially. GHG is a trusted partner, and their work is welcomed and appreciated across our diverse, multilingual community. When GHG takes on a client, they take on that client’s community. GHG gets in there and really understands what is needed. They are fearless in digging deeply to really understand the best way to elevate our messages.” Khadija Haynes, Board Member, Montbello Organizing Committee
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Best-In- Class Service
Short-term rentals create economic opportunity for diverse workers and communities across Colorado ByVANESSA BEASLEY
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(Photo: AirBnB)
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It’s no secret short-term rentals allow Colorado residents to earn extra income by sharing their home with travelers. What most people don’t know is the economic benefits of short-term rentals reach beyond homeowners and directly benefit local workers and communities across the state. As a black woman working in Colorado’s tourism industry, I also know first hand how short-term rentals have helped empower diverse communities with economic opportunities. In 2019, I moved to Steamboat Springs and got a job as a Front Desk Manager at a resort. While I loved my job, there were no opportunities to grow within the company without being required to relocate. In 2021, I joined the team at Moving Mountains, a luxury short-term vacation rental property management company, as a Guest Services Specialist. The company operates locally in four popular ski markets: Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek, Colorado. That winter, I assisted with planning ski vacations for over 250 reservations. This included organizing lift tickets, Snowsport lessons, airport transportation, grocery delivery and pre- stocking, and private chef dinners for our guests, including families, to ensure their experience in Colorado was unlike any other. After six months in the Guest Services Specialist role, and thanks to my prior management experience, I was promoted to Guest Services Manager. Short-term rentals are popular accommodation options for
families and groups when traveling to Colorado and our local teams go above and beyond to offer unique experiences and provide full- service local vacation planning. Once a Moving Mountains lodging reservation is confirmed, the Guest Services team is in place for pre- arrival communication and vacation planning experiences for all markets. What distinguishes us from other property management companies in the tourism and short-term rental industry is providing our guests with best-in-class service prior to and during their stay. Instead of leaving it to the guests to do research on what to do while staying in one of our mountain towns, our full- service Guest Services team is there to help them choose the best local vendors to use during their stay. Short-term rentals create economic opportunity for local Colorado workers of all backgrounds and small businesses, not just homeowners. We take pride in being able to support our communities by hiring local workers and using local businesses as vendors. Most of Moving Mountains’ employees are full-time residents, and the entire Guest Services team is based in Colorado, like me, living in or near the mountain towns our guests visit, so our guests can trust that we provide accurate local information. In Steamboat, our internal housekeeping department is composed of a diverse team of employees, and in Vail, Beaver Creek, and Breckenridge, we outsource the housekeeping department to a locally owned
cleaning company made up of local workers. We proudly employ 82 year- round employees and 43 seasonal employees. Additionally, the vendor partners we recommend are locally owned and operated, and we have partnerships with many small businesses in our mountain towns, including airport transportation companies, local chefs,
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snowmobile tour operators, and dogsledding guides to name a few. When our team connects our guests with local partners, it helps ensure tourism dollars go directly into the pockets of our local residents and workers. What’s more, all of our vendors go above and beyond for our guests. For example, one of the families I was assisting had a local private airport transfer from the Yampa Valley Regional Airport to Steamboat and accidently left their duffle bag at the airport. The driver was already driving back to the airport, so instead of them having the guest figure it out themselves, the driver grabbed the duffle bag when they returned to the airport and delivered it to the guest. This example speaks to one of our core values: “It’s the little things that mean so much.” It may seem small, but these simple things are what make a guest loyal to the company and local communities. Our local partners help us create unique experiences that in turn keep our guests loyal to them. For example, I was recently assisting a family that has stayed with us many times and was having difficulty securing a reservation for their 17-person party at a local Italian restaurant. Using my resources, I contacted a chef who is one of our local partners that owned a portable pizza oven from a past business venture. Together, we were able to create an interactive pizza party for the family at their short-term rental, allowing the kids to make their own personal pizza with the chef. This was a hit with the family who said the experience turned out better than they could have imagined. Not only does this example speak to the fact that we provide our guests with amazing experiences, but it also underscores how the short-term rental industry drives income and loyal customers to our local small businesses. We also offer vacation planning to homeowners so even if they are staying at their home and bringing family with them, we are there to help. Additionally, part of our business is commission based, which means we are incentivized to support our partners as much as possible. The families that stay with us consistently spend thousands of dollars that goes back into our community. We are incredibly proud to support our local economies and help empower the local communities we serve by ensuring they see the
benefits of tourism spending.
While short-term rentals significantly benefit communities across Colorado, there have been recent attempts in the state legislature to strictly regulate and ultimately reduce the number of short-term rentals. These proposals put 8,100 local jobs and $1.3 billion dollars in state revenue at risk while making it significantly more expensive to travel in Colorado. Moving Mountains is passionate about preserving the benefits of short-term rentals for Colorado residents and is a founding member of the Colorado Lodging and Resort Alliance where our Director of Business Development is an active board member. We actively engage and communicate with our homeowners, other local property managers, local commerce associations, and the local vendors that support and directly benefit from the short-term rental industry about new policies that threaten our ecosystem. As a result, we have a broad coalition of organizations and businesses that support fair, balanced regulations at the local level that allow our industry to continue to thrive. Short-term rentals support the diverse communities in our mountain towns and provide workers like myself with economic opportunity to live and raise families here. We are proud to be a part of the short-term rental industry that provides so many economic benefits for Colorado residents and communities that rely on tourism, and encourage our state and local lawmakers to continue expanding economic opportunities for Coloradans.
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In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, where success hinges on adaptability and innovation, KMG Consulting Services LLC drives success and meaningful change through a dual suite of services aimed at empowering individuals and organizations alike. Led by Kristen M. Guiseppi, a visionary program management/process improvement specialist and a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, KMG Consulting Services LLC aims to serve the community by providing tailored consulting services that address the diverse needs of clients. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a wealth of experience, Kristen’s dedication to empowering others are at the heart of everything we do. From optimizing operations to offering pre-law support to aspiring law school students, her mission is clear: to empower individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential. Empowering Organizations | Program Management & Process Improvement Specialist At the core of KMG Consulting Services LLC’s offerings lies Kristen M. Guiseppi’s expertise as a program management and process improvement specialist. With a proven track record of pioneering and optimizing award-winning programs through diverse collaborations, Kristen brings over a decade of experience in leading projects and programs at both the state and Empowering Organizations, Empowering Individuals: The Mission of KMG Consulting Services LLC By KRISTEN M. GUISEPPI
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university levels. Drawing on her mastery of program management methodologies, Kristen’s strategic and innovative approach and dedication to continuous improvement have enabled her to navigate complex challenges and deliver impactful results. Kristen’s proficiency in process improvement further enhances her ability to streamline operations and enhance efficiency for her clients. By identifying areas for optimization and implementing innovative solutions, she helps organizations of all sizes achieve their goals and maximize their potential. Through KMG Consulting Services LLC, Kristen offers tailored consulting services aimed at guiding both startup and seasoned organizations towards success. Whether it’s optimizing existing processes, implementing new strategies, or driving organizational change, Kristen’s expertise as a program management and process improvement specialist ensures that her clients are equipped to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.
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Empowering Individuals |DEI Law School Admissions Strategist With a unique blend of hard skills in program management, coupled with over a decade of specialized expertise in law school admissions, Kristen also offers a holistic approach to navigating the intricacies of the law school admission process as a Law School Admissions Strategist. Having worked at several law schools creating comprehensive pre-law programs and understanding the multifaceted challenges faced by aspiring law school students, particularly those from underserved and underrepresented backgrounds, Kristen has dedicated herself to innovating educational pathways and support systems. Through her work, she aims to address systemic barriers that impede access to legal education for marginalized populations. Kristen’s approach goes beyond traditional pre- law advising. By offering personalized mentoring, statement and resume development, and tailored strategy and coaching sessions, she empowers aspiring law school students with the confidence and skills needed to navigate the admissions process successfully. If you are law school bound, Kristen provides a supportive and inclusive environment where all aspiring lawyers can thrive. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that every client receives the guidance and support they need to achieve their goals and pursue a career in law. Kristen’s expertise as a program management and process improvement specialist, combined with her dedication to diversity, equity, and
inclusion, ensures that every client receives the guidance and support they need to achieve their goals. From optimizing operations to empowering aspiring law school students, KMG Consulting Services LLC is dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and empowerment.
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By SUSAN LIEHE DSBO Mentor- Protégé Program: Building Today’s Capacity, Investing in Tomorrow Development & Opportunity (DEDO), the Division of Small Business Opportunity (DSBO) supports the growth, capacity, and sustainability of small, disadvantaged, minority and women-owned businesses. DSBO encourages and measures the utilization of certified firms on city-managed construction and professional services projects and the procurement of covered goods and services purchased by the city. As a division within the city’s Denver Economic
capabilities of the protégé.
But utilization goals and contract compliance are just two elements of DSBO’s work. Growing firms need to be ready, strong, and stable to perform successfully on public contracts. DSBO’s robust outreach and capacity building program focuses on nurturing and educating small businesses, including delivering its successful citywide Mentor- Protégé program. Each pairing of mentor- proteges is actually a three- way support platform, since the ultimate purpose of the program is to develop long-term business relationships between established prime contractors, MWBE firms, and city agencies. The involvement of both the agencies and mentors enhance the management and technical
Mentors and Protégés must enter the program jointly and are expected to establish a mutually agreed upon development plan with input from a selected agency for at least one year. Building trust, creating relationships, and making the investment of time and effort is important, but the benefits to everyone involved are powerful. educational and networking opportunities for selected pairings on renewable one- year stints and coordinated through an identified agency liaison include the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, Denver Parks and Recreation, Denver International City agencies that have committed to offering
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