Episode 109 – An Interview with Luke Houser and Ross Williams
In this episode, we discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and how it benefits residents of El Paso County.
Voices of the Pikes Peak Region
From local government officials to leaders in the community, Beyond the Dais will step off the elevated platform of the Chamber and shine a spotlight on the people working to make El Paso County a great place to visit, work, and live.
In this episode, we discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and how it benefits residents of El Paso County.
In this episode, Angela outlines the upcoming Citizen College program and how it can benefit residents of the county.
In this episode, Todd talks about the importance of the Parks system and shares information about the myriad programs available to residents.
In this episode Sean talks about various training programs available within the department and how he got his start at Public Works.
In this episode we discuss how the office can assist veterans in need and details about an upcoming claims clinic.
In this episode we cover the role PPROEM plays during disasters and how residents can best prepare for emergency situations.
In this episode we talk about the Workforce Center’s role in the region and the tools they use to assist both job seekers and businesses.
In this episode we talk about what Pretrial Services are and the importance of transparency and trust within the team’s responsibilities.
In this episode we discuss the role of Public Health in the community and talk about a new resource for residents.
We’ve hit Episode 100! In this episode we talk about how different forms of storytelling affect people and the value stories have in a community.
In this episode we discuss how El Paso County approaches housing in the community and the various programs they administer.
In this episode we discuss Maddy’s role as Fair Queen, the importance of western heritage, and the value of the El Paso County Fair.
In this episode we discuss COPPR’s place in the artistic community and the value creative industries bring to a local economy.
In this episode we talk about her experience working with constituents in multiple fields and how residents can make their voices heard.
In this episode we talk about the importance of accessibility in government and the resources available for people to educate themselves.
In this episode we talk about the recent legislative session and how residents can play a big role in local government.
In this episode we talk about the upcoming El Paso County Fair and a unique experience coming to the event for the first time.
In this episode we discuss Angels of America’s Fallen, the nonprofit organization that Joe founded, as well as what it means to him to be recognized as the Veteran of the Year.
In this episode we cover Emma’s work on an upcoming Impaired Driving campaign and how she became invested in injury and violence prevention long before her job with Public Health.
In this episode we discuss the importance of telling local stories and the value podcasting has as a medium.
In this episode we discuss what the Enterprise Zone is and how it can benefit small businesses and residents alike.
In this episode we talk about the myths surrounding Code Enforcement and some of Mindy’s wildest days on the job.
In this episode we talk about the Special Victims Section of the department and the responsibility they have within the community.
In this episode we talk about the organization’s co-located structure and how that benefits those they serve.
In this episode we talk about National Child Abuse Prevention Month and how Dr. Lester’s passion for his work brings value to the community.
In this episode we kick off National County Government Month and discuss the importance of local government.
In this episode we talk about the value of the El Paso-Teller County 9-1-1 Authority and the importance of Peak Alerts.
This time on Strategy Team Sessions, we cover how our roles impact emergencies, fairs, and media interviews.
In this episode we talk about a couple of upcoming Space Foundation events and what visitors can expect from the Discovery Center’s renovation.
In this episode we talk about Karen’s personal story and how that led to the creation of the Colorado Springs chapter of DBSA.
In this episode we talk about the importance of storytelling and the impact youth voices can have in a community.
In this episode we talk about the SBDC’s purpose and how they serve the local business community.
In this episode we talk about the breadth of their programs and how they’re helping youth bounce back from the pandemic.
In this episode we talk about the positive influence of sport in children’s lives.
In this episode we talk about Silver Key’s origins and their significance within the community.
In this episode we discuss what services the Center provides and how ARPA grant funding helped make a dream a reality.
In this episode we discuss the problems long-term care facilities faced during the COVID pandemic and the steps Cheyenne Village has taken to recover from that difficult time.
In this episode we discuss how dance can transform lives and the importance of having a dream to strive for.
In this episode we discuss the nature of the sanitation district’s growth and how ARPA grant funding helped propel one of their projects forward.
In this episode we talk about Crossfire Ministries’ mission and how they benefit from community partnerships.
This time around we have a couple of repeat guests (the team is only so big).
In this episode we discuss the importance of the arts and how they positively influence our daily lives.
In this episode we discuss how Kingdom Builders came to be and the approach they take to aiding victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking.
In this episode we discuss the importance of serving multigenerational needs and the benefits that come from investing in your people.
In this episode we talk about Kevin’s road to Public Works and important updates to the Snow and Ice Control Program.
In this episode we discuss how Early Connections Learning Center’s legacy helps define their work and the benefit early childcare has on the community as a whole.
In this episode we talk about roads, budgets and the value of transparency.
In this episode we discuss how The Place manages their difficult mission and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County has bolstered their programs.
In this episode we talk about mountain climbing, the importance of small business, and the value of cooperation.
In this episode we discuss the water district’s efforts to provide water across a large area and how ARPA grant funding helped propel one of their projects forward.
In this episode we discuss Project Angel Heart’s mission in the community and their increased ability to assist local residents with the help of ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we talk about how Dream Centers is helping the community and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County has allowed them to expand their scope of helpful influence.
In this episode we discuss Inside Out’s various programs and the strides they have made with the help of ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we talk about the different forms justice takes and why it’s important to view it on a case-by-case basis.
In this episode I spoke with Jessie about how El Paso County is uniquely positioned to attract defense businesses to town.
In this episode we talk about the facts and fiction surrounding PCD and why water is such an important topic of discussion.
In this episode we discuss what an age-friendly community looks like and why it’s important in a thriving region like El Paso County.
In this episode we talk about how the Commissioner’s past experience has prepared him for his role and why residents should be paying attention to the softening of the economy.
In this episode I spoke with Theresa about how important collaboration is to the economic growth of the region and the benefits of being part of the Chamber & EDC.
We’ve hit Episode 50! To celebrate, I brought back Strategy Team Sessions for Volume 2.
In this episode I spoke with Supervisor Rick Gonzales and Social Case Worker Gary Grambort about the Center on Fathering’s mission and the services they provide.
I had the opportunity to give a presentation on the importance of Storytelling Through Podcasts on July 25, 2023, and it felt like something I should share with this community.
In this episode I spoke with Scotty Hall and Leigh Simpson about their programs and how public outreach has been crucial to their success.
In this episode we talk about the upcoming El Paso County Fair and the incredible number of events planned for the week.
In this episode I spoke with Dr. Krefft about her role in medical research for veterans and the importance of the PACT Act.
In this episode we discuss SRC’s impact within the community, how they help transform lives, and how ARPA funding has expanded their reach.
In this episode we talk to Mary Jo about the Center’s new accessibility features and what programs residents can look forward to this Summer.
In this episode we talk about Ryan’s reaction to the latest legislative session and the importance of transparency in government.
In this episode we discuss Aneka’s role as Fair Queen and the importance of the El Paso County Fair.
In this episode we discuss Mt Carmel’s connection to the Veteran community, what programs they offer, and how ARPA funding has aided their efforts.
In this episode we discuss the PACT Act, how it could impact our Veteran population, and the difference it has made in Michelle’s life.
In this episode we talk about Steve’s role in recent events and how his time in the Marines helped form his approach to leadership.
In this episode, I wanted to give listeners an idea of what we do in the Communications Department to keep residents informed.
In this episode we talk about Food to Power’s connection to the community and the dynamics of working with multiple organizations to meet goals.
In this episode we discuss partnerships between USAFA and El Paso County and each group’s efforts to make this region a great place to live.
In this episode we talk about Catania’s passion for social justice, the value in taking time for yourself, and the importance of Child Abuse Prevention Month.
In this episode we talk about how Heartspace Kids came to exist and the importance of focusing on youth mental health.
In this episode we discuss Jim’s history in emergency management, the value of a regional approach in a crisis, and why everyone should consider training in the field.
In this episode we talk about the Commissioner’s role in government and the importance of staying informed about regional issues.
In this episode we discuss Atlas Prep’s purpose in the community and the aim of their mental health wellness program.
In this episode we talk about the youth programs Forge Evolution manages and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss how Crossroads’ Turning Points identifies the needs of their patrons and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss how Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership collaborates with the community and how ARPA grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss Sandy’s experience navigating a mental health challenge and how organizations across the county were able to help her overcome it.
In this episode we discuss the value of continuing education, the importance of communicating in a crisis, and why Natalie has a strong connection to mentoring.
In this episode we discuss Xavier’s views on the HR profession, the benefits a job with El Paso County offers, and how he ended up with a curious nickname.
In this episode we discuss Commissioner Bremer’s position in local government and how she views her role as a leader in the community.
In this episode we discuss UCCS’s JAWS Program and how American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss UCCS’s GRIT Program and how American Rescue Plan Act grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss the valuable work that CASA is a part of, how they support their staff through the difficult tasks they perform, and how American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding aids their efforts.
In this episode we discuss the 2023 El Paso County Budget, how it comes together, and what it means for El Paso County residents.
In this episode we discuss the benefits on alternative pathways for high school students post-graduation, the value of experience in the construction industry, and how ARPA grant funding from El Paso County is making a difference for the organization.
In this episode we discuss a number of programs run by Homeward Pikes Peak, including the soon-to-be-opened Bloom House, which was made possible thanks to grant funding from El Paso County via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
In this episode we discuss how The Salvation Army got their start, the benefits they have seen from ARPA grant funding from El Paso County, and why they become a top-of-mind organization around the holidays.
In this episode we discuss the importance of transparency with government funding, the ins and outs of American Rescue Plan Act grants, and how those grants positively affect El Paso County residents.
In this episode we discuss the role Search and Rescue plays in El Paso County, what it takes to be part of the team, and the outcome of a recent national competition the team took part in.
In this episode we discuss NAMI’s efforts within the El Paso County community, the delicate nature of helping those they serve, and how the organization is putting ARPA grant funding from El Paso County to good use.
In this episode we discuss Sunny’s outlook on her new role, how this position compares to previous jobs she has held, and the importance of residents being involved in local government.
In this episode we discuss the uniqueness of an elected coroner, what it’s like testifying at trials, and the importance of addressing various challenges within the community.
In this episode we discuss United Way’s efforts within the El Paso County community, how they work together with various non-profit agencies, and about the new Family Success Center.
In this episode we discuss the County Attorney’s role, the unique way in which the office operates, and which John Grisham book Mr. Hodges leans on for his most pressing legal advice (the answer may surprise you).
In this episode we discuss Catholic Charities’ purpose within the community, how they work together with various non-profit agencies, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we discuss Public Works’ operations, ways El Paso County residents can play a part in the department’s success, and why collaboration with numerous organizations is so critical.
In this episode we discuss the role the County Administrator plays in local government, the importance of various working relationships, and where Mr. Waters sees El Paso County five and ten years from now.
In this episode we discuss the role communications plays in local government, why it’s important to have two-way communication with residents, and what steps the Comms team is taking to create more transparency in their messaging.
In this episode we discuss Solid Rock’s purpose within the community, what their goals are for those they serve, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we discuss Springs Rescue Mission’s purpose within the community, what their goals are for those they serve, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we discuss the PPBEA’s mission within the community, how their programs benefit students and businesses alike, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.
In this episode we discuss Care and Share’s programs, what it means for them to be a pillar within the community, and how beneficial it was for the organization to receive ARPA grant funding from El Paso County.