Colorado Coalition for the Homeless
Background
The Colorado Coalition for the Homeless (CCH) is a Denver-based nonprofit organization established in 1984. Its mission is to work collaboratively toward the prevention of homelessness and the creation of lasting solutions for families, children, and individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness throughout Colorado. CCH advocates for and provides a continuum of housing and a variety of services to improve the health, well-being, and stability of those it serves. Over the past four decades, CCH has earned state and national recognition for its integrated healthcare, housing, and service programs, offering critical assistance to over 20,000 individuals and families each year.
Key Strategic Focus
CCH's strategic focus encompasses three primary areas:
- Housing: Operating 21 high-quality permanent supportive and affordable housing properties, CCH administers nearly 1,500 vouchers, supporting over 5,200 households annually. The organization employs a Housing First approach, facilitating rapid access to housing and comprehensive support services to prevent the recurrence of homelessness.
- Healthcare: Through five Federally Qualified Health Centers, including the Stout Street Health Center, CCH provides medical and behavioral healthcare, substance use treatment, dental, vision, and pharmacy services to more than 17,000 patients annually. These centers emphasize trauma-informed care and integrate various health services to address the complex needs of their patients.
- Supportive Services: CCH offers a robust array of support services, including counseling, case management, benefits acquisition, life skills training, and employment services, to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency and independence.
Financials and Funding
In the fiscal year ending December 2023, CCH reported total revenue of $104.4 million and expenses of $106.8 million, resulting in a net loss of $2.4 million. The organization's revenue sources included:
- Contributions: $70.5 million (67.5%)
- Program Services: $33.1 million (31.7%)
- Other Revenue: $0.8 million (0.8%)
CCH's total assets stood at $188.1 million, with liabilities of $59.7 million, resulting in net assets of $128.4 million.
Leadership Team
In March 2023, Britta Fisher assumed the role of President and CEO of CCH, succeeding John Parvensky, who led the organization for 36 years. Fisher brings over two decades of experience addressing housing insecurity and previously served as Denver's Chief Housing Officer and Executive Director of the Department of Housing Stability.
Other key members of the leadership team include:
- Jamal Moloo: Vice President of Integrated Health Services
- Lisa Thompson: Chief Program Officer
These leaders play pivotal roles in advancing CCH's mission and strategic objectives.
Leadership Changes
The transition in leadership from John Parvensky to Britta Fisher in 2023 marked a significant change for CCH. Parvensky's tenure saw the organization's growth from a small advocacy group to a nationally recognized leader in supporting homeless communities. Fisher's appointment is expected to build upon this foundation, bringing fresh perspectives and strategies to address homelessness in Colorado.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The landscape of organizations addressing homelessness in Colorado includes several key players:
- Urban Land Conservancy (ULC): Established in 2003, ULC focuses on acquiring, developing, and preserving real estate for community benefit, addressing issues of affordable housing and equitable access to essential services.
- Mercy Housing Management Group Inc: Based in Denver, this organization manages affordable housing properties and provides supportive services to residents.
- Shelter the Homeless Committee Inc: Operating in Salt Lake City, this organization focuses on providing shelter and supportive services to individuals experiencing homelessness.
These organizations, along with CCH, contribute to the broader efforts to combat homelessness and provide affordable housing solutions in the region.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
CCH collaborates with various local and national organizations to enhance its services and expand its reach. These partnerships include working with government agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations to provide comprehensive support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Notably, in January 2025, workers at CCH's Housing Supportive Services Department voted to unionize, becoming the second unionized workforce of their kind in Colorado. This development reflects a commitment to addressing internal challenges and improving service delivery.
Operational Insights
CCH's integrated approach to addressing homelessness—combining housing, healthcare, and supportive services—sets it apart from many competitors. The organization's Housing First model emphasizes rapid access to housing and comprehensive support, leading to a 73% reduction in emergency service costs for chronically homeless individuals with disabilities over a 24-month period. This approach not only benefits the individuals served but also results in significant cost savings for the community.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Under Britta Fisher's leadership, CCH is poised to explore new strategies and initiatives to further its mission. Potential opportunities include expanding housing developments, enhancing healthcare services, and strengthening partnerships with other organizations to address the root causes of homelessness. By leveraging its existing strengths, CCH aims to continue making a significant impact on reducing homelessness in Colorado.
