WHO WE ARE

When residents lead...

In 2016, El Paso County Public Health received a competitive grant to create the RISE Coalition, an initiative designed to create a cross-sector community coalition interested in working with stakeholders in Southeast. El Pomar’s Trustees made a seven-year commitment to help fund the Resilient, Inspired, Strong and Engaged (RISE) Coalition, especially in its resident-led work. RISE aims to enhance Southeast Colorado Springs through resident-led change and utilizes local resources to reduce barriers to success.

Between the El Pomar Foundation’s initial grant in 2016 and the strategic analysis released in 2020, RISE Coalition partners have reported leveraging more than $8 million in funding for the Southeast Colorado Springs community, including opening of facilities for medical care (WIC Clinic, Peak Vista) and services (Family Success Center) and new storytelling publications (Southeast Express). Panorama Park reopened in 2022 after investments totaling over $8M. In 2024, RISE Southeast launched as its own 501(c)(3) organization. For all we've done, the best is yet to come!

MISSION

Enhancing Southeast Colorado Springs from within through resident-led change.

VISION

A vibrant, connected community that provides opportunities for all to thrive.

PURPOSE

Southeast Colorado Springs will be a destination for culture and diversity in our city.

RISE Southeast Community Health Needs Assessment

2026 Assessment with Highroots Wellness

"These similar timelines echo across specific neighborhoods, and it is not a coincidence; they are the result of disinvestment as the city’s development pushed further north and east over time. RISE Southeast has disrupted this narrative by returning the power to the residents. Welcome to their story."

Read the Assessment

Explore Our Reports

2025-2030 Strategic Plan 2024 Annual Report

Our Impact Reports

20+

Residents engaged in community initiatives last year.

Community Growth

10%

Increase in local participation in community events.

Voices
Heard

90%

Residents feel their opinions are valued in decision-making.

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Our Team & Leadership

At RISE Southeast, our board is a diverse group of passionate individuals committed to uplifting the voices of our community. Each member brings unique experiences and insights, ensuring that our initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of Southeast Colorado Springs. Together, we are dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving meaningful change from within.