Farewell to an extraordinary 2023, I want to share our remarkable journey as the President of HBA Cares. This year has been marked by outstanding accomplishments, unprecedented generosity, and a shared commitment to positively impacting the Colorado Springs community.

 

Woody & Millie Ingram Guest House

Our most significant achievement this year has been the ongoing construction of the Woody & Millie Ingram Guest House at the St. Francis Medical Center Campus. Initiated in 2022, this project is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our industry members. As we eagerly anticipate the Grand Opening in Winter 2024, we are profoundly grateful for the support received.

 

The financial backing from the Myron Stratton grant, totaling $10,000, along with the $8,000 raised through the Brick Fundraiser for the patio with a view of Pikes Peak, has played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. However, there is still work to be done, and we invite you to join us in this meaningful project. Volunteers are needed for various tasks, and monetary contributions are always appreciated. If you wish to contribute or volunteer, please contact Josh Peterson, the Builder Captain, at josh@vanguardnewhomes.com or 719-243-4181.

 

Board Recognition

At the HBA Annual Awards Dinner, we proudly recognized two exceptional board members for their outstanding contributions. Ron Lais was honored as the Associate Member of the Year for his significant commitment to community service through volunteering, sponsorships, and unwavering support.

 

Julie Shoemaker, rightfully named Builder of the Year, has been a force in handling permits for the Guest House project. As a Contract Administrator/Start Coordinator for Vantage Homes, Julie's dedication, attention to detail, and expertise have been invaluable to the smooth progress of our initiatives. We are truly blessed to have these outstanding individuals in the HBA Cares family.

 

Community Engagement

Our commitment to making a difference in the community was evident through various initiatives. From a successful Food Drive for Care & Share to sponsoring Fostering Hope's annual luncheon and participating in events like Breakfast Under the Bridge for The Place and Creek Week, HBA Cares continues to extend its reach. Justin Mitchell's leadership in making the Ronald McDonald House playground accessible is a testament to the heart of our organization.

Our collaboration with HBA in a donation for Koats 4 Kids underscores our dedication to supporting the community's most vulnerable members during winter.

 

Sponsorship

In 2023, we expanded our outreach by supporting three local non-profits:

1. Community Housing Affordability Taskforce (CHAT): Led by HBA BOD member Kevin Walker, CHAT is a newly formed 501(c)3 focusing on research and advocacy for various housing types across El Paso County.

2. Face it Together: This program's mission is to get people with addiction and their loved ones well. Face it Together services any employee or loved one with ties to an HBA member company. https://www.wefaceittogether.org

3. The Place: The Place ignites the potential in youth to exit homelessness and create self-determined, fulfilled lives. Their vision is that all Colorado youth have safe housing, supportive relationships, and the opportunity for self-sufficiency and success. https://theplacecos.org/

 

Fundraising

Our fundraising efforts this year have been remarkable. Here are the amounts raised for each event:

1. First Annual Cares Cup: This event, hosting a night of golf, fun, and competitiveness at Top Golf, raised an impressive $7,875, thanks to the kindness of our sponsors and ticket sales.

2. Pikes Peak Hill Climb: With the help of George Hess III of Vantage Homes, HBA Cares raised close to $33,086 in sponsorships from members placed on George's car for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. These donations directly benefited the Ingram Guest House.

3. All Members Cup: HBA Cares received $726, thanks to the generosity of Emerging Leaders and those who donated at the All Member Cup.

4. Hockey Event: A local team of building professionals, led by HBA Cares Board Member Mike Finkbiner, faced off against a team of local law enforcement officers at the Sertich Ice Arena. The Building Team took home the trophy. The event raised $5,922, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Colorado Springs Amateur Hockey League.

 

A special mention goes to the GIVE! Campaign, where we could share our message of hope, reaching more people through new and traditional media sources. The campaign resulted in $2,860 raised, reflecting the support from our closest supporters, friends, and the community.

 

Volunteers

The dedication of our board members, who contributed over 1,738 hours to community projects, is truly commendable. This investment of time is a testament to our commitment to building a stronger and more compassionate community.

 

I sincerely thank the HBA Cares Board, volunteers, sponsors, and the community for your unwavering support. As we enter 2024, let us continue these partnerships, creating positive change and leaving a lasting legacy for the Colorado Springs community. Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

 

With Gratitude, 

Jill Lais President, HBA Cares