GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – One year ago, United Way of Mesa County and HomewardBound of the Grand Valley launched the Resource Center, an initiative aimed at assisting the unhoused community. Now, as the center reaches its first anniversary, those involved are reflecting on its impact and the road ahead.

Since opening in January 2024, the Resource Center has provided more than 75,000 services. That includes 16,639 meals distributed, 7,704 showers, 7,260 rides, and 12,759 other forms of aid facilitated through Mutual Aid Partners. These numbers paint a clear picture of a community effort making a tangible difference.

Voices From the Center

For Phillip Masters, Outreach and Services Coordinator for United Way, the Resource Center represents more than just numbers.

“A beacon of hope,” Masters said. “We’re educating ourselves on everything the valley has to offer, what these providers have to offer, and what these organizations have to offer. We act as a conduit to make sure people can access those services.”

Amber Henning, Chief Advancement Officer for HomewardBound, echoed similar sentiments.

“To me, the Resource Center means a place where people can take a breath. I think that is so important when you’re experiencing homelessness—there are not very many places where you feel like you belong,” she said. “At the Resource Center, you can be here.”

Adjusting to Challenges

Running a facility of this scale was never expected to be easy. Masters acknowledged the early difficulties, comparing the process to “building a plane while it’s flying.”

“There was a period where everything was so chaotic,” he admitted. “And yet, we did it, and we’re still flying. The community sees the changes we’ve made and how the quality of service has improved.”

Henning emphasized that the center’s adaptability has been key to its success.

“We want to do whatever we can to adapt,” she said. “This is a brand-new project that really has never been thought of before. As we learn and grow, we continue to make adjustments.”

One of the major lessons? Listening to feedback. The center has evolved based on input from those it serves and the surrounding community, helping refine its approach to offering services.

The Strength of Partnership

A critical component of the Resource Center’s success has been the partnership between United Way and HomewardBound. Masters highlighted how working together has strengthened their ability to provide for the community.

• Trust has deepened. Staff from both organizations have learned to rely on one another, even when they’re not in the same room.
• Messaging has become unified. Ensuring a consistent approach has been crucial in navigating challenges and responding to needs.
• Growth has been mutual. Both organizations have benefited from the shared experience, adapting together to create better support structures.

“We’ve had to learn how to trust each other,” Masters said. “Learn how to articulate the same message. I think it’s grown tremendously.”

Looking Ahead

As the Resource Center moves into its second year, new initiatives are on the horizon. Masters revealed that United Way and HomewardBound plan to introduce more educational and behavioral services, aiming to further support guests in building stability and independence.

Henning reinforced the commitment to the center’s mission.

“The Resource Center is needed in this community, so we will continue to grow and adapt and structure in the way that best supports the entire community.”

Masters also took a moment to express gratitude.

“I want to thank everybody in our community, all the providers. I mean, we can’t do this alone,” he said. “Thanks to the community and our guests.”

With one year down and many more to come, the Resource Center remains a vital part of Grand Junction’s support system for those in need.