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

Southeast Colorado Springs will be a destination for culture and diversity in our city and a vibrant, connected community that provides opportunities for all to thrive.

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Our Team & Leadership

Guiding Change Together

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.