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)
23 The Acumen
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