Mancos United

In 2023-24, we expanded and adapted the basic needs program launched in early 2023. As word spreads and trust deepens, we continue to learn from the experiences of those we serve.A common thread among participants is resiliencemany are already working multiple jobs, parenting children with medical or behavioral challenges, and/or navigating life as single parents. Access to reliable transportation remains critical, enabling individuals to maintain employment and ensure their children can get to school. Meaningful support included meeting the urgent basic needs of 45 requests including vehicle repairs, utility bills, eyeglasses, tutoring, Black and Indigenous community cultural engagement, Moms to Moms support groups, and elevating youth voices.

Mancos United served as a steward for the communitys exploration of a community hub that could reduce disparities in many areas. The community expressed needs for safe indoor spaces to move, create, gather, work and relax, which resulted in the exploration of the Community Hub. A co-creation workgroup circulated a survey to better understand needs. So far exploration of the Mancos Valley Community Hub has:Explored feasibility and models in other communities.Validated the expressed interests through a community surveyBegan a formal and comprehensive Feasibility Study that will wrap-up with a presentation to the Town in April 2025.