This is an exciting springtime at the Western Colorado Alliance! I am thrilled to share with you some of the progress and positive momentum that our organization is experiencing from major milestones and
accomplishments to key initiatives and goals looking ahead.

You may recall that at last year’s annual conference, we recognized the unionization efforts of our Western Colorado Alliance staff. In a landmark development, Western Colorado Alliance staff have successfully unionized, marking a significant milestone in our organization’s history. This achievement reflects our commitment to principles of equity, fairness, and empowerment, not only in the broader community but also within our own ranks. By unionizing, our staff members have ensured that their voices will be heard and their rights protected, while also setting an example of solidarity and collective action.

As an organization that values the power of collective action and community organizing, our Alliance is proud to support our staff in this important step. We recognize the hard work and dedication of our team and are committed to working collaboratively with the union to ensure a fair and inclusive workplace for all.

Another exciting development for our Alliance is the recent purchase of the building at 601 North 1st Street in Grand Junction. This purchase marks a significant step forward in our efforts to expand our reach and impact in the community and our ability to purchase a building for the first time in our Alliance’s history signals the stability and financial strength of our organization.

While we celebrate these milestones, we continue to look forward. I’m pleased to report that we are making steady progress on our strategic plan, which aims to enhance our advocacy, engagement, and organizational effectiveness in the future. The strategic plan is a roadmap that guides our efforts through 2026. This plan serves as a blueprint for our organization, outlining the key goals listed below that will help us achieve our mission and vision.

Goal 1: Grow our local and regional power through membership/supporter growth and engagement.
Goal 2: Win significant and measurable victories with diverse grassroots leaders on priority issues identified through broad and diversified organizing cycles and campaigns.

Goal 3: Secure organizational stability through increased and diversified fundraising that supports hiring, training, and retaining diverse, quality staff and board.

Goal 4: Grow our organizational profile and awareness of our work through increased communications capacity, including language justice/access.

So much forward progress is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our members, staff, and volunteers, and I am confident that together, we will continue to make a lasting impact in our community. I encourage you to read about some of our Alliance’s other exciting activities happening across the state this spring and summer, and I hope that you will join us!