Reflecting on a Year of Resilience and Gratitude

As we reflect on a year of being a standalone 501(c)(3) organization once again, Advocates - Crisis Trauma Survivor Services (ACTSS), previously Open Heart Advocates (OHA), is filled with gratitude for our staff, board, community partners, volunteers, donors, and the incredible community we serve.

In 2023, when we were awarded the opportunity to step out from under the MRH umbrella and operate independently, we felt both gratitude and fear. Fear of the unknown and the challenges we would face. Yet, our commitment to addressing the pressing issues in our beautiful community carried us forward.

Over the past year, our community has faced heartbreaking losses, including 18 lives lost to suicide in the Yampa Valley. We honor these individuals with respect and dignity, and we remain committed to speaking openly about suicide. Our goal is to ensure no one feels alone by meeting people where they are and offering support.

Despite the challenges, we have achieved significant milestones. We successfully passed three state audits, served 2,530 individuals to date, distributed 698 free backpacks filled with school supplies to families in need, and held our first-ever Halloween fundraiser as an independent nonprofit. Additionally, we’ve begun cultivating a donor base thanks to the generosity and heartfelt support of our community.

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce our first event of 2025: the Kick the Winter Blues concert presented by Yampa Valley Brewing, taking place on January 10, 2025!

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our locally staffed 24/7 crisis line is available at (970) 824-2400. You can also call or text 988 to reach the national suicide hotline, or contact the Colorado Crisis Line at 1-844-493-TALK (8255).

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we can continue to make a difference.