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As we celebrate two decades of serving our community, we're filled with pride reflecting on Integrated Community's remarkable journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a vital force for positive change in Steamboat Springs.
Our story began in 2004 when we first opened our doors to serve immigrant families with interpretation services. From day one, we focused on breaking down language barriers and building bridges within our community. Throughout the years, we've continuously expanded our services to meet our community's evolving needs.
Let's look at the key milestones that have shaped our journey over the past 20 years.
Integrated Community: 20 Years of Service
Mission Statement
Integrated Community helps immigrants and their families become self-sufficient and independent in order to contribute to our Northwest Colorado community.
TIMELINE
2004: Founding Year
Integrated Community (CIIC) was founded by Summer Laws and Cody Reed to address the needs of immigrants in Northwest Colorado, fostering connections between diverse community members. The organization began as a volunteer-led effort focused on language support, cultural events, and community integration.
2008: Transition in Leadership
Summer Laws stepped down as Executive Director after leading CIIC’s formative years. Her vision and groundwork established CIIC as a vital resource for the immigrant community. A new Executive Director was appointed, but financial mismanagement during their tenure placed the organization in a precarious position.
2010: Sheila Henderson Joins CIIC
Sheila Henderson joined CIIC as Program Coordinator for Resource and Referral and Interpretations, bringing fresh energy and expertise.
2011: Leadership in a Time of Crisis
Sheila Henderson became Executive Director during a critical financial crisis caused by prior mismanagement. The board of directors had voted to dissolve the organization, but Sheila was
entrusted with several months to secure funding and implement a strategic plan to save CIIC. Alongside Roddy Beall, Interpretation and Translation Program Manager, Sheila worked tirelessly to stabilize operations and keep essential services running.
2013: Formalizing the Interpretation Program
During Sheila Henderson’s tenure, Roddy Beall played a pivotal role in formalizing CIIC's interpretation program. This included establishing 24/7 emergency interpretation services for law enforcement and first responders, building a pool of contracted local interpreters, and launching a comprehensive interpreter training program. These innovations ensured greater access to essential services for the immigrant community while enhancing CIIC's reputation for professionalism.
2013: Financial Independence and Stability
Under Sheila Henderson’s leadership, CIIC achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, ensuring financial independence and long-term sustainability. The organization expanded its services and earned recognition for its professionalism and dedication to the community.
2014–2018: Strengthening the Organization
CIIC partnered with Routt County United Way to establish a permanent home at the 443 Oak Nonprofit Center. Obtained U.S. Department of Justice accreditation to provide legal immigration services, a landmark achievement for Northwest Colorado’s immigrant population. Expanded from two part-time employees to a team of five full-time staff members, backed by professional interpreters and community volunteers.
2018: New Leadership and Growth
Nelly Navarro became Executive Director, marking a historic milestone as the first Latina leader in the community and the first immigrant Executive Director of the organization. She brought a focus on sustainability, program expansion, and geographic growth. During her tenure, CIIC achieved major milestones:
Doubling staff size from 4 to 10 members.
Leading a successful capital campaign to expand the facility, doubling its size.
Establishing a half-a-million-dollar endowment to ensure long-term sustainability.
Opening a new location in Craig in 2022, further extending CIIC’s reach.
2019–2023: Innovation and Program Expansion
Nelly oversaw the expansion of key programs, including Resource and Referral services and Immigration support services. Introduced new initiatives:
DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Workshops, fostering community understanding and breaking down barriers.
Outdoor Youth Programming, creating opportunities for immigrant youth to engage with the community and the natural environment.
CIIC’s budget grew by 60%, supported by a doubling of private donors and foundations.
Operational efficiency improved through new technologies and internal policies, enhancing service delivery.
2024: New Leadership and Innovations
Jerry Hernandez became Executive Director in 2024, bringing over six years of experience as Deputy Director and Education Coordinator. Jerry expanded programming into Moffat County, broadened revenue streams, and launched the Hearts Without Borders initiative. This initiative focuses on 'unreasonable hospitality,' making clients feel valued and seen while strengthening CIIC’s welcoming mission. Jerry also streamlined operations, implemented advanced technology, and developed workshops on cultural humility to engage other organizations in serving immigrant populations.
2024: Celebrating 20 Years of Resilience
CIIC celebrates two decades of overcoming challenges, expanding services, and fostering inclusion. The organization reflects on its journey from a volunteer-driven effort to a cornerstone nonprofit in Northwest Colorado, serving thousands of clients and engaging hundreds of volunteers annually.
Concluding Message
As we celebrate 20 years of service to Northwest Colorado, Integrated Community reflects on the resilience, growth, and unwavering dedication that have brought us to this milestone. From our beginnings as a volunteer-led initiative to becoming a cornerstone nonprofit, we remain committed to empowering immigrant families, fostering inclusion, and building bridges within our community.
How You Can Support Us
Volunteer Your Time: Become a part of the change by joining our dedicated team of volunteers. Whether it’s supporting events, assisting with programs, or lending your skills, your time can make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.
Make a Donation: Your financial support sustains our mission and enables us to grow. Donations help us provide critical services, expand our programs, and welcome newcomers to our community with open arms.
Spread the Word: Share our mission with friends, family, and colleagues. Together, we can amplify our impact and create a more inclusive Northwest Colorado.
Your support—whether through time, resources, or advocacy—ensures that Integrated Community continues to thrive for the next 20 years and beyond. Let’s work together to empower families, foster understanding, and strengthen our community.
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