Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric awards the January $1,000 Caring Community Giveaway to Movement 5280.
“Whenever we can help an organization that helps our community’s youth, we are overjoyed,” said John Ward, Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric president.
Movement 5280 Teen and Community Center reaches out to Denver’s at-risk youth, providing a safe environment where youth and young adults can belong. Founded in 2010, Movement 5280 was envisioned and is supported by Denver First Church of the Nazarene.
Movement 5280 is not just a building; it has become “family” to many youth and young adults in Denver. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday the center opens to the community to offer a hot meal, warm shelter, showers, as well as a clothing bank where people can ‘shop’ for gently used clothes. Movement 5280 has grown from five visitors per week to more than 300 in its impact to the community, particularly to those between the ages of 16 and 25.
The youth who visit the center are encouraged to give back in service to others by volunteering at the center.
“We provide a leadership program which allows our kids to become formal volunteers at 5280 alongside 50 members of the community who volunteer their time to our organization,” said Angela Maldonado, of Movement 5280. This leadership program provides them with a badge and specific responsibilities at the Center, and allows them to gain pride and belonging in their position and teaches them follow-through and ownership. “These are good kids with a tough start to their lives who are trying to stay clothed, fed, and in as safe an environment as they can,” said Angela.
With the help of Applewood’s $1,000 Caring Community Giveaway, Movement 5280 plans to purchase food.
