 Mission | History | Board/Staff History In 1964 in response to growing community needs relating to serving the working-poor, indigent and homebound elderly in South Metro Denver, leaders from all segments of the community - led by Inter-Faith founder Maida Navis - came together in what was and is truly a community-based effort to form Inter-Faith Task Force for Community Services (now Inter-Faith Community Services). Starting with simple programming designed to meet the basic human needs of food, clothing and shelter, Inter-Faith has grown into the largest emergency and continual support systems in South Metro Denver for low-income families, children, seniors and the homeless. Inter-Faith is dedicated to providing services that bridge the gaps between crisis, survival and independence. In 1968 Inter-Faith was designated the "official poverty agency" in its service area and together, with the board, staff, volunteers and community support, the agency has served numerous low-income persons since its inception. With the philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out" the agency strives to support its clients in every phase of their climb to self-sufficiency and success. Donations from businesses, individuals, service clubs, schools, churches, Boy and Girl Scouts, and grants from foundations and federal, state and local governments are Inter-Faith's major sources of funding. Fundraisers also play an integral part in the continuation of services. In addition to actual funding, donated services and equipment supplement the budget. Thousands of volunteer hours, food, clothing and household items are donated by individuals, schools, churches and community organizations to insure that Inter-Faith can continue to provide much needed services. The support Inter-Faith receives from the community really makes its motto of "Neighbors Helping Neighbors" a reality. Inter-Faith is probably best-known for its food and clothing banks, which are truly a reflection of our community. Community members - schools, churches, service clubs, Boy and Girl Scouts, businesses, individuals and families - donate all the food and clothing. One of Inter-Faith's main goals is homeless prevention. Through a variety of resources including financial assistance (rental, mortgage and utility assistance), transitional and off-site housing IFCS is able to help families achieve their housing goals, access more affordable housing or simply help its families maintain their present shelter. Inter-Faith also has many other programs to help the community - programs for homebound seniors: medical transportation, lunch bunch and grocery shopping help; financial assistance: medical prescriptions, gas vouchers, bus tokens and birth certificates; gift of hearing and sight programs; victim assistance; youth programs including Ready, Set, School!: a program where low-income children are sponsored by groups or individuals and the children receive a brand new outfit (shoes, underwear, clothes, socks, etc.), a new backpack and school supplies to start their school year off on the best foot possible; and Thanksgiving, Holiday and Easter Baskets for families and seniors that would not be able to celebrate these holidays without the community's help. All services and programs are delivered in a manner that preserves the dignity and sense of self-worth of all clients. 3370 South Irving Street, Englewood, CO 80110-1816 Phone: (303) 789-0501 Email: ifcs@ifcs.org |
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