We Fortify is a 501(c)3 that fortifies young adults experiencing economic and housing instability into lives of purpose, economic independence and social connectedness. We build small neighborhood communities that offer dignified housing coupled with services designed to enhance well-being and support potential.  We have a tenacious belief in the human capacity for growth.

Two years of research went into the development of We Fortify and its first development, Working Fusion at Mill Street. This research included:

• Interviews with many nonprofit human services providers, counselors,
trauma-informed experts and educators

• Interviews with the city’s Homeless Coordinator and city council members

• National and international travel to other small supportive neighborhood communities

• Over a decade of personally provided support in the form of funds, transportation, housing and advocacy for individual vulnerable families

• Compilation of research on similar projects nation-wide, Housing First Initiatives, and Positive Youth Development

This intervention will impact the young adult community demographic, (ages 18-29), in Colorado Springs by:

• Increasing the number of young adults earning a living wage via training in trade and culinary positions

• Increasing the number of young adults who achieve housing stability by offering attainable housing and reducing evictions and homelessness

• Increasing the well-being of young adults through the provision of a supportive trauma-informed team, coordination of care with outside providers, and on-site experiential therapeutic activities and educational workshops

• Increasing the social capital and resilience of young adults through the development of supportive relationships and positive community involvement