YEAR END REPORT
PUEBLO WEST COMMUNITY TEEN COOPERATIVE
P.O. BOX 7890
PUEBLO WEST, CO 81007
The PWCTC got off the ground with an Open House in June of 2005 at the former West End Steakhouse in Pueblo West. We met many members of the community interested in seeing a safe establishment open soon where teens could hang out and socialize.
The Board was sufficiently impressed with the turnout at that initial meeting that we determined to become a tax-exempt non-profit corporation. That process is not an overnight road. Once we had our legal documents prepared and filed with the State of Colorado, our next step was IRS approval. Even though we came through with flying colors, our tax-exempt (501)(c)(3) non- profit status took the expected six months.
Since we became "official" in December of 2005, the Board and its volunteers have been very busy.
In February, we distributed a survey in Pueblo West High, Swallows Academy, and Skyview Middle School. Our goal was to get a sense of what teens truly wanted in a Teen Center. We were really surprised and encouraged that almost one third of the respondents indicated they would volunteer to make the Center happen. One hundred percent of the teens said they would use the facility at least one day a week.
The Board held strategic planning and fundraising workshops with a consultant and developed a thought system that 'Giving is Receiving'. If we're willing to give to the community, the community will support us in the development of a Center. In giving of our time and efforts, we also receive a great deal of personal satisfaction in knowing a job is well done and sharing time with others.
Creating Community is what this organization is all about. This Spring, teens volunteered to partner and help out the local Lions' Club with their first annual Pancake Breakfast. We had a Community Cleanup Day in April where teen volunteers removed trash from McCulloch and Purcell.
We're really excited to announce the hiring of our new Director, Rebecca Kaspari. Rebecca brings with her a myriad of business development and leadership skills. Her enthusiasm, drive, and passion for this project are remarkable.
We're putting Rebecca to the test right away as we move forward entering a float into the 4th of July parade and creating a family fun day this September called A Family - A Fair. These events will give us tremendous exposure to the greater community and further opportunity to partner with many other Pueblo West organizations. Volunteers are needed.
Please contact us with your comments and offers of assistance. If you're able to give some time, enthusiasm and a little skill, we're able to give great rewards. Many hands make light work.
We aim to be in an establishment by the end of 2006 and need lots of help to make that happen. We need volunteers, volunteer coordinators, and donations. Serve on the site, planning, finance, grantwriting, marketing, events, or fundraising committee.
Give us a call at 719-214-4068. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sandra Kluth - Treasurer
6/20/06
