As a Fellow at El Pomar, I have had the opportunity to support the Metro Regional Council through El Pomar’s Regional Partnerships program. So far, it has been one of the most meaningful parts of my Fellowship experience. When I first stepped into this role, I knew I would have a heavy hand in helping the Metro Council with logistics, event planning, and grant making. What I didn’t know yet was how deeply it would shape my understanding of impact and the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change.
One of my first assignments as a Fellow was helping plan the Metro in-region engagement, which brought together current and former council members, as well as former Fellows who have supported the region over the years. We held this reception at a restaurant run and owned by a former Fellow, making the evening feel even more special. The gathering served as a space to reflect on the council’s work, celebrate its impact, and look ahead to its future.
Before the reception, we held a council meeting, and I had a chance to observe how the group works together, makes decisions, and thinks about the region. Watching members from such diverse backgrounds engage in thoughtful, civil discourse reaffirmed for me the power of collaboration.
What stayed with me most, however, was a feeling I was not expecting. For the first time, I truly felt that I was a part of something much larger than my title of “Fellow” at El Pomar. Everyone, from current council members to former Fellows, was quick to give me advice and offer their support in my career journey. Being in a room surrounded by people who care deeply about Colorado made me realize it takes dedicated, compassionate people to create a better, stronger, and more connected community.
Supporting the Metro Council has shown me that regional impact does not come from any one person. Impact comes from a network of people committed to moving Colorado forward. I am grateful that I get to contribute to that work and play a part in a long line of changemakers dedicated to fulfilling El Pomar’s mission.
