Members of the 2021-22 Roots & Branches Foundation (R&B) cohort recently granted $50,000 to three nonprofit organizations working to provide early childhood education and parenting support to children and families experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity in the Greater Denver area.
Rising housing prices in the Metro Denver region, combined with the pandemic’s varied impacts, have significantly increased the number of people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity in our community. Homelessness and housing insecurity can make it more difficult for families to access quality early childhood education and care, yet these services are critically important for children and parents. Guided by their Jewish values and a desire to address community needs, R&B participants made grants to the following organizations:
- You be You Early Learning received $16,230 to support a teacher-led cooperative mobile preschool classroom in Aurora Section 8 housing.
- The Village Institute received $20,000 to support the holistic live, learn, work center for refugee and immigrant families through housing assistance, early childhood education, family development services, job readiness training and mental health support.
- Warren Village received $13,500 to support single-parent families by providing resources, opportunities and support systems to change life trajectories in order to achieve personal and economic self-sufficiency.
“Participating in Roots & Branches Foundation is among the most meaningful Jewish experiences I have had as a young adult in Denver,” said Alyssa Miller, a member of the 2021-22 cohort. “Our meetings were always rich in discussion about the intersection of Jewish values and community needs, and I became closer to a very special group of young Jewish people who share a commitment to helping others. I feel more energized and empowered than ever to continue pursuing collaborative, community-oriented work.”
Roots & Branches Foundation is an initiative of Rose Community Foundation that brings together diverse, talented and community-minded Jewish young adults ages 25 – 40 to learn and give collaboratively to make a difference in the Greater Denver Community. Joining Roots & Branches means becoming part of a network of alumni who continue to gather to celebrate holidays, volunteer and learn about community issues.
“Despite most of our meetings being held virtually members found ways to meaningfully connect with each other and develop close relationships,” said Emily Kornhauser, Rose Community Foundation’s director of collaborative philanthropy. “I am incredibly grateful for the dedication and creativity this cohort has shown in supporting Denver nonprofits.”
Rose Community Foundation is currently recruiting for the 2022-23 cohort of Roots & Branches Foundation. Interested applicants can learn more about the program, eligibility and meeting dates, and how to apply. Applications are due by May 25, 2022.
If you know an outstanding Jewish adult who may be interested in participating in Roots & Branches Foundation, or would like to learn more about the program, please contact Gillian Breuer.