EXECUTIVES PARTNERING TO INVEST IN CHILDREN
CONTACT
711 Park Avenue West
Denver, CO 80205
303-319-3350
info@EPICimpact.org
Hope House Colorado: From Vision to Level 5 Excellence
Hope House Colorado partnered with EPIC through the Projects of Promise and Building Up initiatives as it explored the development of an early childhood center on its campus. EPIC served as a supportive thought partner, helping Hope House assess site feasibility, evaluate its financial model, strengthen its funding strategy, and work through key questions with its Board of Directors as the organization pursued this important expansion.
The Hope House Early Learning Center opened its doors, providing high-quality care for more than 100 children, including the children of Hope House teen mothers and families who are eligible for CCCAP. Just one year later, the center earned a Colorado Shines Level 5 rating, the highest quality designation for early childhood programs in the state. EPIC is proud to have supported this work and is honored by Hope House Founder and CEO Lisa Steven’s service as an EPIC member and Jenny Gonzales’s leadership on EPIC’s Policy Committee.
Challenge
Hope House Colorado recognized that access to reliable, quality childcare is essential for teenage moms pursuing education, employment and long-term stability. To better support the families they serve, the organization sought a sustainable childcare solution that would meet the needs of both participants and staff.
Solution
Hope House Colorado partnered with EPIC to explore and develop a childcare solution aligned with the organization’s mission. The collaboration resulted in the opening of the 11,000-square-foot Early Learning Center in 2025, creating access to quality early learning and care for more than 100 children.
Outcome
In 2026, the Hope House Early Learning Center was recognized as a Colorado SHINES Level 5 program, the state’s highest quality rating for early childhood education. This designation recognizes excellence in health and safety, staff quality, learning environments, family partnerships and leadership and business practices. Because so few childcare providers have available CCCAP-funded spots, Hope House created its own early learning center to ensure the teen parents it serves could access high-quality, affordable childcare. The achievement reflects Hope House Colorado’s commitment to providing exceptional care while helping children, families and the broader community thrive.