As you enjoy this quarterly update, it will be obvious that 2025 is a year of milestones for Greccio Housing. The events mark the years of dedication to particular projects, they represent the fulfillment of our mission, and they consistently recognize the contributors and stakeholders that turn bold ideas into reality.
From the completion of construction, lease-up, and grand opening of Bentley Commons, to the groundbreaking of Sunrise at Shiloh Mesa, and the anniversary of Greccio’s founding 35 years ago, our public achievements are numerous and will mark 2025 as a year of distinction in our history. And while it’s been a banner year, it’s not too dissimilar to the work and accomplishments of hundreds of donors, volunteers, employees, and champions since 1990. Indeed, each year and season comes with its challenges and accomplishments, and we are proud to continue Greccio’s reputation and impact.
Our legacy began 35 years ago, with a small but mighty band of committed hearts and hands, and led by the calling
of our founder, Claudia Deats Rodgers. Claudia has continued her impact through her relationships, stories, prayers, and encouragement long after she left her official role with Greccio. We are especially excited to permanently recognize Claudia as Greccio’s founder with a newly dedicated “Founder’s Wall” in our lobby. It is a permanent reminder of the giant on whose shoulders we stand as we bring housing and family stability to the Pikes Peak region for decades to come.
As we move toward our 35th Anniversary celebration, I invite you to plan a visit soon to meet our newest team members, share your history and memories with the next generation of Greccio, and to stay active in continuing our story. Our days with Greccio in certain roles will always be numbered, but our impact and our relationships will endure. I am honored to be part of what Claudia started so long ago, and am encouraged by our future, our leadership in the field, and our place in our community.
Enjoy this quarter’s update, and join us in celebrating our many accomplishments in 2025!
Sincerely,
Lee Patke, Executive Director
LABOR DAY WEEKEND
Parking Lot Fundraiser
FROM THE GROUND UP: PARKING WITH A PURPOSE
Greccio Housing is celebrating its annual Labor Day Weekend Parking Lot Fundraiser! Located at our main office at 1015 E Pikes Peak Ave. Ste 110, Colorado Springs, our parking lot offers the perfect spot for community members to park their cars and enjoy the iconic hot air balloon launch, just a short walk away.
From Saturday, August 30th to Monday, September 1st, 2025, we will open our lot to the community, providing a convenient parking option for the Labor Day weekend
festivities. Parking fees go directly toward supporting Greccio Housing’s mission to provide affordable housing and resources to our over 1000 residents.
We’re still looking for volunteers for this year’s fundraiser. During the event, volunteers will help direct cars into parking spots and guide traffic toward Greccio Housing. Multiple shifts are available throughout the holiday weekend. To learn more about the event or sign up, contact ResidentResources@greccio.org.
EVENT & VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE
Saturday & Sunday:
Morning shift: Setup begins at 5:00 AM and concludes at 8:30 AM
Evening shift: Setup resumes at 4:00 PM and concludes at 7:30 PM
Monday:
Morning shift: Only (5:00 AM – 8:30 AM), as there is no evening launch
WELCOME HOME
NEAR COMPLETION & LEASING FAST!
This fall marks an exciting milestone for Southeast Colorado Springs as Bentley Commons, a vibrant affordable housing community, nears completion. The final building in this multiyear project will open its doors soon, offering more families, veterans, and individuals a place to truly call home. In fact, our leasing team has already begun welcoming new residents to the property!
A collaborative effort between Greccio Housing, Partners in Housing, and the Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust, together known as GPR Properties, Bentley Commons is the result of over fourteen years of planning and dedication. Since 2009, the three nonprofits have successfully operated the site at Hancock and Astrozon, and the completion of the property marks a significant achievement for all parties.
Once complete, Bentley Commons will feature 168 brand-new apartment homes—including much-needed three-bedroom layouts—alongside the revitalization of 24 existing units.
Spread across seven acres, the community is designed to meet a wide range of housing needs, especially in an area where affordable options are in short supply.
According to the Colorado Springs Housing Affordability Report, between 28,000 and 39,000 new housing units will be needed by 2028 to keep pace with growth and close the city’s housing gap. Bentley Commons is an important step toward that goal.
The new homes will be available to qualifying individuals and families with low incomes. Rent levels will remain affordable, with units offered at 30%, 40%, 50%, and 60% of the area’s Annual Median Income (AMI).
This $65 million investment in the community has been made possible through local and state grants, low-interest loans, and the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. The first new building opened in early spring, with others following shortly after, and the final one scheduled for leasing by this fall.
Some improvements to the existing property include a well-lit outdoor mail station, scenic views, and a community outdoor fitness center, all designed to enhance convenience, safety, and quality of life for residents.
PROJECT SUPPORT AND CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS
1 bedroom/1 bath – Rent $588-$1221 (Equal to 40%-60% AMI)
1 Person - $31,520 - $47,280
2 Person - $36,000 - $54,000
3 Person - $40,520 - $60,780
2 bedroom/2 bath – Rent $699-$1459 (Equal to 40%-60% AMI)
1 Person - $31,520 -$47,280
2 Person - $36,000 - $54,000
3 Person - $40,520 - $60,780
4 Person - $45,000 - $67,500
3 bedroom/2 bath – Rent $1681 (Equal to 40%-60% AMI)
1 Person - $31,520 - $47,280
2 Person - $36,000 - $54,000
3 Person - $40,520 - $60,780
4 Person - $45,000 - $67,500
5 Person - $48,600 - $72,900
6 Person - $52,200 - $78,300
LEARN MORE
READING & REWARDS
TURNING PAGES, WINNING PRIZES: FIRST SUMMER READING PROGRAM
This summer, the Greccio Housing Resident Resource Center kicked off its very first Summer Reading Program to encourage children in grades 1 through 6 to stay engaged with reading during the school break. Running from June 1 through August 15, the program invited young readers across Greccio properties to select books tailored to their grade level and track their progress for prizes.
Each age group had unique milestones, whether by reading minutes or books completed, and children who reached these milestones earned fun prizes along the way. At the end of the summer, one grand prize winner from each age group was awarded their choice of a family-friendly outing, including tickets to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, the Denver Aquarium, or Urban Air Adventure Park.
The program welcomed 22 readers this year and through a grant books were ordered for those readers. In total, participants read 56 books plus 2,779 minutes of material and eleven readers successfully turned in their final logs to remain eligible for prizes. The program wrapped up with a celebratory party, in which families were invited to Greccio Housing for a special dinner and recognition of the readers success.
Summer Reading Program by the Numbers
• 2,779 minutes read by 1st–2nd graders. Congratulations to Alice, with an impressive 1,440 minutes of reading!
• 4,251 pages read across 26 books by 3rd–4th graders. Benjamin stood out, finishing 11 books and 2,583 pages.
• 4,577 pages across 30 books read by 5th–6th graders. Andrew was the clear winner in his group, diligently logging all his reading.
Pictured: Families of summer reading participants enjoying the end of program celebration.
WE LOVE OUR Volunteers
THE POWER OF MANY: MAKING A DIFFERENCE ALL SUMMER LONG!
This summer, we were fortunate to welcome an incredible wave of volunteer support from local groups, churches, Colleges, and community partners. Across multiple properties, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to improve outdoor spaces, complete repairs, and create welcoming environments for our residents!
Students from Colorado College’s Greek Life kicked things off during their Community Outreach Day, dedicating an afternoon to cleaning up the Woodbine property and ensuring residents could enjoy the warm weather in a refreshed space. Soon after, employees from Oakwood Homes Colorado Springs joined us at our Santa Fe and Citadel Arms communities, where they cleared trash and prepared garden areas for the season ahead.
The momentum continued with COSILoveYou’s CityServe volunteers, who worked hard at Cedars by pulling weeds, cleaning garden beds, and preparing the space for growth. Colorado Springs Utilities staff also pitched in at Kittyhawk, focusing on cleanup and garden preparation.
Faith-based groups were another vital part of our summer. Volunteers from Next Step Ministries partnered with both Bethel Lutheran Church and Gray Methodist Church from South Carolina, at Arcadia and other properties by painting, removing old fencing, picking up trash, and tackling small repairs. We were also grateful to welcome 40 members of the First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, Missouri, who spent their time supporting residents at Pikes Peak, and JUMP, a youth volunteer group from Chinook, Montana, who helped tend garden beds and complete painting projects.
Together, these volunteer efforts brightened our properties and showcased the power of people coming together in service. We are deeply grateful for every individual who gave their time and energy to Greccio Housing this summer and to those volunteers who work with us throughout the year in areas like our libraries and food pantry.
Pictured left to right: Volunteers from Colorado Springs Utilities, volunteers from Colorado College, volunteers from Next Step Ministries & Gray Methodist Church, and volunteers from First Presbyterian Church of Kirkwood, Missouri.
SET TO OPEN SUMMER 2026: 50 NEW AFFORDABLE SENIOR APARTMENTS
In July, Greccio Housing officially broke ground on Sunrise at Shiloh Mesa, a new affordable senior housing community that will bring much-needed homes to older adults in northeast Colorado Springs. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the project site, nestled beside Woodmen Valley Chapel at 8292 Woodmen Valley View. Community leaders, development partners, city officials, and supporters gathered to celebrate this important step toward addressing the region’s growing need for affordable housing.
This project is the result of a unique partnership between Greccio Housing, the Center for Strategic Ministry, and Woodmen Valley Chapel. Central to the collaboration was a generous land donation from the church, as well as a service agreement that will engage Woodmen volunteers in ongoing resident support once the property is complete.
Sunrise at Shiloh Mesa will be Greccio’s second senior housing property, following the successful opening of The Atrium at Austin Bluffs in 2021, and its fifth LowIncome Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) project in the past seven years. The development is part of a larger masterplanned community near Woodmen and Marksheffel Roads, a fast-growing area in Colorado Springs, and is designed to provide not just housing, but a supportive, community-focused environment for its residents.
With this project, Greccio Housing continues to expand its reach and impact across El Paso and Teller Counties. The organization now owns or operates 29 properties and 844 affordable housing units, including its newest and largest, Bentley Commons, developed in partnership with Rocky Mountain Community Land Trust and Partners in Housing, which is currently leasing new units. For Greccio Housing, Sunrise at Shiloh Mesa represents more than a construction project, it’s a reflection of its mission to create stable, safe, and affordable homes, and a testament to what can be accomplished when nonprofits, faith communities, and local partners unite around a shared purpose.
Photos by Ian Helmcke of Woodmen Valley Chapel. Architectural rendering provided by Way Architects, P.C.
“The Center for Strategic Ministry, as a supporting organization to Woodmen Valley Chapel, identifies community needs and seeks partnerships to solve them,” said Randy Scott of Woodmen Valley Chapel. “Affordable housing for seniors is one of those needs. We are excited to partner with Greccio Housing, a leader in providing affordable housing in our community.”
Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2026, opening the doors to 50 affordable apartments for seniors who are income-qualified. The project will serve seniors 62+ in a mix of one-bedroom (90%) and two-bedroom (10%) apartment units. The area median income mix will include: 15 units (30%) at 30% AMI, 12 units (24%) at 40% AMI, and 23 units (46%) at 50% AMI.
Units will contain washers and dryers, storage, and walk-in closets. Amenities include an on-site manager, a large multipurpose community room with TV and fireplace, mail and package room, activities and fitness center, and a welcome area and elevator lobby. There will be a multi-purpose community and activities space located near the two primary entrances/exits on the north and west sides of the building, including a west-facing patio and dog-run/relief area, and a southwest-facing open garden area.
Additional multi-purpose spaces include a library and internet café, and a rooftop deck and community garden space. Three spacious “social stations” will be located adjacent to elevator lobbies on upper floors to promote and support social interaction in sunroom-style spaces.
PROJECT PARTNERS & FUNDERS
Pictured left to right: Greccio Housing leadership, Members of the Board, and Emeritus. Executive Director, Lee Patke with community members. Randy Scott of the Center for Strategic Ministry Board giving address during the groundbreaking event.
A GARDEN DONATION
In May, Scotts Miracle-Gro of Fountain and Joe Wright donated soil and provided volunteers and transportation for pickup. In total Greccio Housing received two pallets or 39 bags of soil, which are now being used in our resident gardens.
THANKING VOLUNTEERS
In April, during National Volunteer Week, we celebrated the amazing individuals who give their time and heart to Greccio Housing! At our newest property, Village at Solid Rock, volunteers and staff reflected on meaningful memories and shared what inspires their connection to our mission.
HOUSING ADVOCACY IN ACTION AT THE CAPITAL
In February, the mission and work of affordable housing reached the State Capitol. Greccio’s Executive Director, Lee Patke, and Senior Operations Director, Brian Baker, joined Pikes Peak Housing Network’s Executive Director, Jill Gaebler, and the Apartment Association of Southern Colorado for a key ‘lunch and learn’ with House Republicans. They discussed the housing landscape in the Pikes Peak Region, including challenges, successes, and the unintended consequences of 2023–2024 legislation.
ADOPT A FAMILY EARLY FOR THE COMING HOLIDAY!
We’re kicking off our holiday giving early this year! Join Greccio Housing’s Adopt-AFamily (AAF) program and help make a meaningful difference for families in need. Your generous donations can provide gifts for children, essential household items, and a grocery gift card for a special holiday meal. By starting early, we hope to ensure every Greccio family receives the support they need to celebrate without added financial stress. You’ll be matched with a family and guided on how to provide items that truly make an impact, from children’s clothing and shoes to their favorite toys and activities. To learn more, please contact Resident Resources by calling 719-4195609 or by emailing ResidentResources@greccio.org.
Pictured: Scotts Miracle-Gro soil donation
Pictured: Program Manager, Doug Anderson
Pictured: Greccio Housing, Senior Operations Director, Brian Baker, Pikes Peak Housing Network’s Executive Director, Jill Gaebler, and Greccio Housing Executive Director, Lee Patke in front of the Capital building.
COMMUNITY UPDATES & ANNOUNCEMENTS
GRECCIO AWARDED $15,000 FAMILY STABILITY GRANT
We are excited to announce that this past June Greccio Housing received a generous $15,000 Family Stability Grant from the Pikes Peak United Way! This incredible support will help us continue providing essential services to our community. Thank you to Pikes Peak United Way for believing in our mission!
GRECCIO IS GROWING 3-BEDROOM NOW LEASING
Greccio Housing is growing! We’re currently hiring for multiple positions and looking for mission-driven individuals to join our team. If you’re passionate about affordable housing and making a difference in the community, we’d love to hear from you. (Per Greccio Housing policy - positions are not open to current Greccio Housing residents). Open positions can be found on indeed.com by searching Greccio Housing.
Your New Home Awaits in Woodland Park! Looking for affordable housing? Valley View Place Apartments at 650 Hikers Way, Woodland Park, CO 80863 has a ground floor 3-bedroom and 2 bathroom unit available! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to live in a fantastic location—apply today and make Valley View Place your new home! Income restrictions apply to all residents. Please contact (719) 475-1422 for more information.
Recently Greccio Housing helped resident Tiare M. in pursuing a two-year degree in Automotive Collision Services at Pikes Peak State College through a $2,000 Mason Foundation Grant and a second scholarship from Greccio Housing. The Mason Grant, honoring Forrest Rodgers, late husband of Greccio’s founder, was created for residents learning a trade, but had gone unclaimed until this pasted year. With both scholarships, Tiare is one step closer to her dream career. In her application, she wrote, “I’d love to inspire other women intimidated by the automotive industry to make the jump and get involved... It’s a new generation—maledominated industries are going to have to start making some room.”
– Tiare M., Greccio Housing Resident since 2023
Pictured: Greccio Housing leadership and staff posing with a Pikes Peak United Way Grant Check
Pictured: HR & Business Manager, Lindsay Flickinger Pictured: Valley View Place, Woodland Park, CO
BECOME A SUPPORTER!
How it works: Any transactions with a linked shopper’s card number will be applied to the Community Rewards program at no added cost to you and won’t impact your rewards! Every quarter Greccio Housing will receive a percentage contributed. TO LINK YOUR KING SOOPERS REWARD CARD
GRECCIO HOUSING
INDIVIDUAL DONOR FUND
CHAMPION ($15,000+)
Jan Strycker
LEADER ($10,000-$14,999)
Anonymous (1)
Dan & Jodie Boedigheimer
Carol J. Overby
SUSTAINER ($5,000-$9,999)
Robert L. Bunch & Betty Large
Bob & Sandra Guenther
Thomas & Sue Neill
Alan Severn
Carl & Laine Smith
ADVOCATE ($1,000-$4,999)
Anonymous (12)
Brian & Lisa Baker
Michael A. Heritage
David Lord
Jack Lundberg
Diane Miller
Lee & Laura Patke
Marsha & Don Smith
Thomas O. Speer
Tamrin Apaydin & Carl Stevens
SUPPORTER ($250-$999)
Anonymous (18)
Fran & Charles Amos
Kent Borges & Stephanie DiCenzo
George & Cindy Edie
Bart & Jeanette Givens
Jan & John Henry
Paul Malek
Marilyn Neidens
Christine, John D., & John C. Orsborn
Mark Perrault
Michael Phan
Dana & Randy Rocha
Sue & Casey Scott
Nancy & Tom Scott
Mark & Patricia Stanforth
CELEBRATOR ($100-$249)
Anonymous (12)
Zach Bunney
Terry & Susan Darby
Jill & Matt Gaebler
Jack Hood
Denise Lucas
Thomas & Mary Jo Resman
Carol Sandoval
Calvin & Lisa Wulf
FRIEND ($25- $99)
Anonymous (6)
Gary & Jill Altman
Marilyn & Don Bosenbecker
Rev. Louis & Mona Konopka
Thea & Gordon Platt
Claudia Deats-Rodgers
Aimee Theelen
IN MEMORY OF RICH STRYKER
Jan Strycker
THANK YOU FOR EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY!
Your individual contributions directly impact the lives of those we serve here at Greccio Housing and help further our mission.
Individual Donor Fund names and amounts based off of 23-24 Fiscal Year.
