Celebrating 25 Years of Impact: The Delores Project’s Legacy and Future

Arroyo Village | Photo by Shopworks Architecture

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For 25 years, The Delores Project has provided essential housing and shelter services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Denver, with a particular focus on women and transgender individuals. Founded on principles of dignity, respect, and community, the organization has grown from a small emergency shelter into a leading force for innovative housing solutions. This year marks a milestone anniversary, not only celebrating past achievements but also setting the stage for an even more impactful future. 

Aleaha moving into housing by Raenice Ivory | Photo by Housing Navigator for TDP

A Legacy of Compassion and Change 

Since its inception, The Delores Project has served thousands of individuals, offering more than just a place to sleep. Through trauma-informed care, case management, and supportive housing initiatives, the organization has empowered guests to rebuild their lives with stability and self-sufficiency. The Delores Project’s focus on gender inclusivity and equity has been instrumental in shaping housing services that recognize and respond to the unique challenges faced by women and transgender individuals in the housing crisis. 

At the heart of its approach is the Housing First philosophy—prioritizing stable, permanent housing as a foundational step to addressing homelessness. This model has proven effective, as demonstrated by The Delores Project’s 94% housing retention rate for supportive housing residents and the fact that 42% of shelter guests who exited in FY24 transitioned into stable or permanent housing. By providing wraparound services, including behavioral health support, housing navigation, and case management, The Delores Project ensures that individuals not only find housing but have the resources needed to maintain it. 

The Delores Project in Denver Pride Parade 2024 | Photo by Natalie Kerr

Looking Forward: 25 Years and Beyond 

As part of its 25th-anniversary celebration, The Delores Project is reaffirming its commitment to expanding housing access and advocating for systemic change. This milestone serves as an opportunity to reflect on progress while looking ahead to new initiatives aimed at breaking cycles of homelessness and poverty. The organization’s Permanent Supportive Housing program has helped 22% of its residents transition to independent housing, demonstrating the success of long-term stability efforts. With a growing network of partners, donors, and volunteers, the organization continues to champion innovative housing models that prioritize long-term solutions over temporary relief. 

Jan and Cindy volunteering to prepare a meal | Photo by Natalie Kerr

Join Us for a Special Anniversary Event in May 

To honor this momentous occasion, The Delores Project invites the community to a special 25th-anniversary event this May. This gathering will be a time of reflection, inspiration, and action, bringing together supporters, past and present program participants, and key community stakeholders. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear powerful stories of resilience, celebrate the organization’s impact, and learn how they can contribute to its ongoing mission. 

As The Delores Project looks toward the future, the need for safe, stable, and inclusive housing remains critical. By coming together as a community, we can continue to create lasting change and uphold the values that have guided this organization for a quarter of a century. 

For more information about The Delores Project, its programs, and the upcoming anniversary event, please visit www.thedeloresproject.org or email info@thedeloresproject.org.