On Friday, September 5, guests gathered at the historic McNichols Civic Center Building for ¡Lotería!, Focus Points’ annual fundraiser and signature celebration. This year’s event was extra special as we marked 30 years of walking alongside families in Denver to strengthen households, build community, and expand opportunities.
The evening was guided by our energetic emcee, Nelson Galicia, and featured music by Los Mocochetes, multicultural food from former Comal participants Jebena Ethiopian Coffee and & Culture, Prieto’s Catering, y SukNuh, with craft cocktails from SuperDelicious. Guests also enjoyed lively rounds of Lotería, complete with custom game cards featuring Focus Points-inspired symbols and plenty of prizes.
During the program, Executive Director Jules Kelty reflected on the organization’s three decades of service, saying: “Every day, Focus Points is there to meet families where they are – supporting parents, strengthening children’s futures, and helping build neighborhoods where all people can thrive.”
Board Chair Lauren Granado also shared remarks on the enduring strength of Focus Points and its commitment to building a more equitable Denver, recognizing the role of community partnerships in shaping that vision.
The night also featured moving remarks from Victoria Loya, a Focus Points participant who shared her personal story of resilience and the impact of the organization’s programs. Her words reminded us all of the courage and strength that define the community we serve.
The evening also included a special tribute to those who laid the foundation for Focus Points. We honored our founders, Terry and Patti Lohman, whose compassion and foresight brought the organization to life in 1995, and reflected on the legacy of Lorraine Granado, whose lifelong dedication to equity and justice continues to inspire our work today as her legacy continues through her niece, Lauren, mentioned above.
Thanks to the generosity of everyone in the room, the event was not only a joyful celebration but also a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together.
We are grateful to our sponsors: CSU Spur, Five Star Bank, Turner Morris, Xcel Energy, Brownstein Farber Hyatt Schrek, The Guardian Group, The Colorado Trust, Denver Parks and Recreation, National Western Center, US Bank, Zero Point, Swinerton, First Citizens Bank, and Assured Partners.
Thanks to their incredible generosity, 100% of the event proceeds will directly benefit our core programs – family support services, early childhood education, and our Huerta Urbana urban farm and Farmers Market. This means that every ticket purchased fuels the next chapter of impact for Focus Points.
Looking ahead to the next 30 years, we remain inspired by the trust and encouragement of our community. Together, we will continue to ensure that Denver families have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
