HILLTOP...A VIEW FROM THE TOP x 4 Hilltop’s CEO and Board Chair letter. WE ARE HILLTOP x 5 Hilltop employees share why they are the perfect reflection of the community we serve

2 0 1 8 A N N U A L R E P O R T

Never Give UpJavier found thementor and supporthe needed to turnhis life around

NON-PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDGRAND JCT. COPERMIT 144

1331 Hermosa AvenueGrand Junction, CO 81506

For over 65 years, Western Colorado has turned to Hilltop for compassionate andcomprehensive human services. We put people first and give them the tools and supportneeded for a chance at lasting success. Your donation of any amount will help people likethese know they are not alone as they face life’s challenges. Pregnant women get the qualityprenatal care needed to guarantee their babies the best possible start in life. Struggling youthget the support needed to overcome a lifetime of abuse and neglect. Adults with traumaticbrain-injuries find a home that lets them live as independently as possible. Individuals facingdomestic violence receive safe shelter and support as they rebuild their lives free from violence. Seniors with memory loss can attend a safe day program while their caregivers get a respite.

To make a donation or become a volunteer, call (970) 242-4400 or visit htop.org

With one donation to Hilltop you are helping thousands of people.

HILLTOP

2 0 1 8 H I L L T O P A N N U A L R E P O R T 2

HILLTOP BOARD OF DIRECTORS x 3

A VIEW FROM THE TOP x 4Hilltop’s CEO and Board Chair letter.

WE ARE HILLTOP x 5Hilltop employees share why they are the perfect reflectionof the community we serve.

NEW SPACES x 8The Cottages unveil their new model in the prestigiousFountain Hills community.

NEVER GIVE UP x 9Javier was facing a life in prison when he met Rick, a Hilltopyouth mentor, and a supportive community willing to helphim turn his life around.

STEADFAST FRIENDS x 12Wild mustangs help teach Hilltop youth to celebrate thefeeling of belonging.

FOR THE LOVE OF ART x 13Brooks Powell discovered moving into The Commons ofHilltop didn’t mean giving up her beloved art studio.

DRIVEN TO GIVE BACK x 14Hilltop volunteer, Jim Mello, makes sure homebound seniorsget to where they need to go.

WRAPAROUND x 15Hilltop’s Family Resource Center helped JoAnn build asupport team to meet all her family’s challenges.

HILLTOP MANAGEMENT TEAM x 16

HILLTOP MISSION AWARD WINNERS x 17

BEYOND THE NUMBERS x 19

WITH GRATITUDE x 21

2 0 1 8 A N N U A L R E P O R T

Hilltop careers put people first,including YOU

For over 65 years, Western Colorado hasturned to Hilltop for compassionate humanservices, and it’s our dedicated employeesthat make it possible. We value our

employees and encourage a healthy work/lifebalance that gives you the time and supportto pursue all your passions. We offer acomprehensive benefits package includingour award-winning wellness program, health

insurance, flexible schedules, paidsabbaticals, enhanced child care benefits,tuition assistance, and so much more.

Apply today at www.htop.org/careers or call (970) 242-4400

Hilltop’s Family Resource Centers are a one-stop-shop for anyone needing services and support.

HILLTOP’S FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS

n Information on prenatal care including nutrition, stress management, and early childhood development

n Resources and referrals for basic needs

n Individualized home visits support family well-being and teach effective parent/child interaction

n Screenings to help identify developmental, health, vision, and hearing issues

n Goal setting to help youth achieve academic, social, andbehavioral goals

nMentoring services match youth with positive role models

n Referrals to health care services including medical, dental, and mental health

n Parenting education that gives effective tools for your parenting toolbox

nWraparound services help you build a support team to help your family create and achieve their vision

n Car seat safety checks

n Domestic violence and sexual assault services including safehouse and 24-hour crisis lines

nMost services provided FREE of charge

n These are just a few of our available services - call or visit today to learn more

Grand Junction (970) 244-0600 1129 Colorado Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Montrose (970) 252-7445 540 S. 1st Street, Montrose, CO 81401

Hilltop Board of Directors

Clay TuflyPresidentAlpine Bank

Linde MarshallBoard ChairConsultant

GVA Management Board of Directors

Mary Beth LuedtkeCertified Leadership

Coach

Tracey GarcharExecutive Director

Dept. of Human Services

Denny StahlRetired

John WilliamsAttorney

Self-employed

Joanna LittleBoard Vice-President

ReMax 4000

Jim GrisierBoard Secretary/Treasurer

CPA

Mike StahlBoard President

Hilltop

Rich EmersonRetired

Rita CrumptonRetired

Bill ByersPast Board Chair

Retired

Gretchen GorePast Board Chair

St. Mary’s Hospital

Joe TaylorBoard Secretary

Colorado Mesa University

Susan CorleAttorney

Williams, Turner & Holmes

Buzz MooreSales Manager

Guild Mortage Company

Alecia GordonBroker AssociateAssociated Brokers

Michael SantoAttorney

Bechtel & Santo

2 0 1 8 H I L L T O P A N N U A L R E P O R T3

A View from the Top

Writing our annual report gives us the opportunityto both reflect on the previous year, and prepareto shepherd in a new one. This past year was

highlighted by many changes, challenges, and successes.These occurred throughout the year, some large and somesmall. When we stand back and look at the year, Hilltop’ssuccesses are a beautiful mosaic. When we look closer, wequickly realize it is a collection of unique accomplishmentsof one individual act or person.

Hilltop’s successes are closely intertwined with ourvalues: putting people first, building relationships, strivingfor excellence, challenging the statusquo, and taking responsibility for ouractions. These are not just words, theyguide our actions day-to-day and formour culture. Our path is far from easy,but recognizing our mission is people,the most complex mechanisms onearth, we realize the challenges weface. As you read through this report,you will witness firsthand the cultureof Hilltop at work, but know this isonly the tip of the iceberg.

Hilltop has some of the most compassionate anddedicated employees imaginable. Our employees are the lifeblood of the organization and our success is directly relatedto their commitment. In a field where retention ischallenging, we recently recognized 191 individuals whohave been with Hilltop for five or more years! Our talentedemployees, united in their passion for helping others andbeautifully featured in the story on page 5, will guide usthrough the years to come

Organizationally, we continue to evolve with the needs ofour community. Our Family Resource Centers in both GrandJunction and Montrose have grown in their role as the hometo many of Hilltop’s programs. These one-stop-shops offervital services and support to families and individuals in ourcommunity. The challenges our clients face are both uniqueand complicated, often requiring assistance from multipleprograms. The story of JoAnn and her family on page 15 is agreat example of Hilltop’s Family Resource Centers at work.


Hilltop’s Bacon Campus, home to our Life AdjustmentProgram (LAP) and Residential Youth Services (RYS),began a multi-year renovation project. A $1,000,000 grantfrom the Department of Local Affairs is being used for theinstallation of life safety upgrades including a firesuppression system. Other renovations include a new movietheater, game room, and repurposed recreation center for theresidents. We are also in the early stages of a plannedexpansion of the Bacon Campus that will utilize adjoiningproperties purchased by Hilltop to expand the capacity ofour LAP program, creating more homes for adults with

traumatic brain injuries.In November, we celebrated the

grand opening of our SeniorDaybreak facility in Montrose.Senior Daybreak provides seniorswith dementia and other memoryloss conditions a safe and secure dayprogram. It also provides theircaregivers a much needed respite asthey care for their loved ones athome.

As we look forward, 2019 beganwith the completion of the first two patio homes from TheCottages of Hilltop in the prestigious new Fountain Hillscommunity. The income generated by the Cottages is anintegral part of funding Hilltop’s services, and keeps thismoney here in our community. Be sure to check out thephotos from our newly decorated model on page 8.

In 2019, we will continue to focus on the redesign of ourResidential Youth Services (RYS) program. While the needfor long term residential treatment for youth remains strongin our community, the program has struggled to find fundingsources to cover the costs of care. We are currently workingto restructure the facility to best serve youth, renegotiatingcontracts and fees with referring agencies, and developing anew day treatment program for youth and their families in anon-residential setting. Hilltop is the only provider of theseservices in Mesa County, and we remain dedicated toensuring our youth can get the services they need close tohome.

Debra BaileyMedical Director

Women Veterans PCP

Dick ThompsonBoard Vice-chair

Quality Health Network

Ken WatkinsFire Chief

GJ Fire Department

Carlton MasonExecutive Director

CASA 7th Judicial District

Angela PadaleckiExecutive DirectorGJ Regional Airport

Stephanie RubinsteinAttorney

Rider & Quesenberry, LLC

Jennifer LandiniRegional Market PresidentBank of the San Juans

Mike StahlHilltop Chief Executive Officer

Linde MarshallHilltop Board Chair


We Are


Hilltop

Hilltop’s employees are a perfect reflection of theindividuals of varied ethnicities, ages, genders,

shared passion for helping

diverse community we serve. Comprised of over 575experiences, and talents; they come together in theirothers face life’s challenges.

Hilltop’s brand new patio homes arenow leasing in the prestigious

Fountain Hills Community. Come tourour decorated model featuring

luxurious independent living withopen living spaces, contemporary

kitchens, gas fireplace, covered patioand a one-car garage. These homes arenestled in a quiet neighborhood with

beautifully landscaped outdoor spacesand walking trails. Plus you will enjoya maintenance-free lifestyle with paid

utilities, bi-weekly housekeeping,snow removal, flexible meal plan, and24-hour emergency response system.Schedule your private tour today,

call (970) 434-2111.

NewSpaces


Denise RodriguezHilltop Family ConnectionsFamily NavigatorWorking for Hilltop givesme the opportunity to grow

and change.

Janet HollingsworthHilltop Support ServicesGrants ManagerI’ve been with Hilltop forover 23 years. It’s a great

organization that makes a positive impactin our community.

Darnell AnthonyHilltop Family FirstFamily NavigatorMy favorite part of my jobis meeting all the unique

families. Getting to watch the kids growup is a blessing.

Marlyn HawkesFountains of HilltopCookComing from a differentcountry, my job lets me

learn a new culture and ways to cookdifferent kinds of food.

Adam GallegosFountains of HilltopCookI love how well Hilltoptreats their employees and I

get the chance to be involved in making adifference in our community.

Maria MartinezEnvironmental Services LAPSupervisorI love being able to supportclients and staff. Working in

a very diverse team, I get to learnsomething different every day.

Hollie VanRoosendaalWorkforce CenterDirectorI get to serve thecommunity and watch

people’s lives change for the betterthrough the services we offer.

Jason FangFountains of HilltopPrep CookHilltop lets me expressmyself at work. I love

interacting with my coworkers andresidents, they are my second family.

Nelson MojicaLife Adjustment ProgramHousekeepingI came from the DominicanRepublic and have worked at

Hilltop for three years. I really appreciatethe opportunities employees have.

Sera PascualFountains of HilltopCare ManagerI am Filipino and comefrom Hawaii. My favorite

thing about working for Hilltop isbuilding relationships.

Liao Fang BeamLife Adjustment ProgramEnvironmental Services AideI like my job everyday. Iwalk about 4 miles daily so

I get to lose weight while I work.

Imelda MedranoFountains of HilltopCare ManagerHilltop lets me be me! I ama fun and outgoing person

and working here is always exciting.

LaDonna GomezWorkforce CenterPlaycare AssistantI get to help people and be apositive advocate for them.

Hilltop is amazing and I truly feel thesupport.

Vanessa QinLife Adjustment ProgramEnvironmental Services AideHilltop helps me with myEnglish and even helped me

get my drivers license and citizenship. Iam happy every day.

Rick DiazFamily Resource CenterTherapeutic Youth MentorI love the difference I get tomake in the lives of the

youth I work with. Hilltop truly caresabout the community.

Jennifer VargasWorkforce CenterCase ManagerI love to celebrate myAfrican culture through my

style. Hilltop respects cultural diversityand is very inclusive.

Lincoln EarlyLife Adjustment ProgramAssistant DirectorI finished my masters inbusiness administration

degree while working for Hilltop. Hilltopprovides a culture that embraces fun whiledoing important work.

Sandra AcevedoADRCOptions CounselorEvery individual and familyI work with is different and

I enjoy being a part of that. Being raisedin Mexico gives me a unique perspective.

Lydia VaughanFountains of HilltopDietary Support SpecialistMy faith is important andgives me a good outlook on

life. I enjoy working with different peopleas part of a team.

Andrew EscamillaColorado 2-1-1Information SpecialistI’m a proud gay man but Ilet what I do for the

community define me. Hilltop is acompassionate organization dedicated tothe community and their employees.

Laura PuenteLatimer HouseCase ManagerI love the culture made upby my peers, the

opportunities for learning, and flexibilitythat Hilltop affords us.

Ana ReitzHilltop Senior LivingBusiness ManagerI am originally from Braziland speak Portuguese,

Spanish, and English. I love Hilltop’sculture and getting to know our clients.

Jose GomezThe Commons of HilltopDishwasherI have worked for 10 yearsat Hilltop. I am so proud I

was able to pass my citizenship test on thefirst try.

Roxanne JohnsonHilltop Family FirstFamily NavigatorI’m the proud mother of 11children, 23 grandchildren,

and 11 great grandchildren. I love getting towork with such a diverse range of families.

We Are Hilltop


Never

Javier Quintana had no authority figure in his life andhe was doing whatever he wanted. By the age of 13,Javier was addicted to drugs, particularlymethamphetamines, and the lifestyle that came withselling drugs. Javier says, “I was angry, I wanted to

build up my ego by being one of the toughest guys on thestreet.” Javier had several run-ins with the law before he wasarrested at age 17. Javier knew this time was different and hewas scared. The charges were serious and he was going to begone for a long time.

Javier was facing a life in prison when he met Rick, a Hilltop youth mentor, and a supportivecommunity willing to help him turn his life around.

Javier’s daughter was born while he was serving time inthe Department of Youth Corrections. Javier was strugglingto believe there was a future for him. One night a friendcame to him with tears in his eyes because he wasbeing transferred to an adult prison on hisdaughter’s third birthday. Something clicked insideJavier, and he made the decision to do whatever ittook to be there for his daughter. She became hisstrength and motivation.

Javier was transferred to Hilltop’sResidential Youth Services program (RYS),where he began working with Rick Diaz, aTherapeutic Youth Mentor. Javier and Rickspent time together, attending high schoolfootball games, kayaking, and hiking. Theyeven went up to Rick’s brother’s ranch onGlade Park where Javier got to chop woodand drive an old tractor. For Javier it wasa new experience, “With Rick I hadsomeone to talk with, to share myproblems with, and Rick always hadsome wisdom that helped me makesense of things. Rick seemed morelike a friend than a mentor.”

For Rick, these outings were achance to build a relationship withJavier based on trust and sharedinterests. Rick knew the life Javier wasliving, he had been there himself.Rick doesn’t believe a youth’s past is


“With Rick, I had someone to talk with, to

share my problemswith, and Rickalways had some

wisdom that helpedme make sense of

things.”

GiveUp

Javier and Rick bond through a shared love of hiking


important, but rather focuses on helping them to moveforward. His goal is to let them know that through caring,they can achieve anything if they’re willing to do the work.Running a log splitter and driving a tractor became ways forJavier to experience new things, to build on his confidence,and to learn he could change the direction of his life.

During his time with the RYS program, Rick helped Javierdevelop small, achievable goals. Javier finished his educationand received his diploma. When Javier said he was nowready to get a job, Rick called his friend Louis Melchor whoworked for Munro Supply, a pump and industrial goodscompany. Louis was impressed with Javier, “When I askedhim a question he looked me in the eye, you could see he wasready to learn and do good.” A few days later a position cameopen, and Rick worked with Javier to prepare for his first jobinterview. Javier beat out five other candidates to land theposition in the shipping and receiving department. Ananonymous person delivered pants and work boots to makesure Javier would be ready to work. Javier says, “It meant somuch to me that people were willing to trust me, that therewere people in this community who really care aboutpeople.” Rick even helped Javier to study and take his drivingtest, which allowed him to progress at the company.

Javier has completed his parole and continues to thrive. Hespends time with his daughter and loves to share many of theactivities like kayaking he first experienced with Rick. NowJavier wants to be measured as a man through what he doesfor his family. He’s there forhis daughter, fiancé, andmother. He’s sworn off drugsand looking forward tomaking new memories withhis family. Javier says, “Rickand my support system werealways there, giving mepositive reinforcement, theyalways brought me up.”

Rick is amazed to see howJavier has turned his lifearound, and that he did it forhimself and his daughter. ForRick the reward is in gettingto see Javier doing better,getting his diploma, a job, adriver’s license… just to seehim smile and be genuinelyhappy. Rick says, “I amblessed to be a part of anorganization like Hilltopwhere I get to help people inour community that simplyneed a help up.”

Recently Javier was askedto give a speech to the

Spanish Heritage Committee. He shared his trials and thelong road that led him there, and he encouraged anyonefacing similar challenges to make a change. “It’s not easy, butit can happen.” Then the attendees joined him in singinghappy birthday to his daughter who was celebrating her thirdbirthday.For more information on Hilltop’s Residential YouthServices program call (970) 244-0538.


Javier reaches out to others facing similar life challenges


Louis Melchor gave Javier his first job knowing he was ready to do good

Steadfast Friends

Steadfast Steeds is a mustang sanctuary operated byBlaine and Tracy Scott in Glade Park. The sanctuary isdevoted to showcasing America’s wild horses as a

“living national treasure” in a publicly accessibleenvironment. Guests receive interactive experiences with themustangs and learn skills that impact their lives. Thesanctuary has partnered with Hilltop’s Residential YouthServices (RYS) program, with funding from the JuniorService League and Alpine Bank, to provide monthlycoaching and support for the youth.

RYS youth volunteer at the sanctuary, helping withmaintenance and other projects. In return, the youth receivegroup and individual coaching through Equine ExperientialLearning (EEL); an effective, non-judgmental partnership

Wild mustangs help teach Hilltop youth to celebrate the feeling of belonging.

between horse, teen, and coach which enhances teens’ self-management of emotions and behaviors. These experiencesteach the youth important skills for dealing with bullying,anger, abandonment, suicidal thoughts, and self-esteemissues.

On a recent trip to Steadfast Steeds, RYS youth weremoving rocks to create a horse path, when a participantnamed John said, “Dude, I don’t do horses!” For severalhours the group continued working, but John stayed at least15 feet from the nearest horse. As the youth transitionedfrom volunteering to coaching time, Blaine invited Chief, abrown and white Pinto to interact with the group.

The goal of the exercise was to get the youth and Chief tonavigate an obstacle course as a close-knit herd. Chief was at


Driven to Give Back

Volunteers play an integral part in Hilltop’s mission.With their passion, energy and skills, they help makea difference in the lives of those we serve. We value

and appreciate all our volunteers, and selecting just one forrecognition is never easy. In 2018, Jim Mello was given theKen Kitzman Volunteer of Excellence Award.

Jim has volunteered four years with SOS, a freetransportation service for homebound seniors aged 60 andolder. Jim takes clients in need to medical appointments andother errands. SOS director Tiffany Waugh says, “Jim issuper humble and cares deeply about our SOS clients. Heoften rearranges his schedule on Tuesday and Wednesday tomake sure everyone can get where they need to.” Jim isreally funny and a favorite with clients. Frequent rider Joycesays, “I never went out much because it was so hard to getaround. I either had to pay for a taxi or the bus, but thanks toJim I can get out to the grocery store and pharmacy when Ineed to.”

Tiffany Waugh is constantly amazed at how low key andhumble Jim can be. Upon receiving the Hilltop MissionAward, Jim worried he hadn’t seemed grateful enough. Hecalled her back just to reiterate how thankful he was and howmuch his volunteering with SOS meant to him. In 2018, Jimdrove 2,669 miles, over 240 hours, in addition to the 340hours he volunteers with the Department of Veterans Affairs.Jim is a shining example of the important role volunteersmake in our community.For information on becoming a Hilltop Volunteer call(970) 244-0659 or visit htop.org.

Hilltop volunteer, Jim Mello, makes sure homebound seniors get to where they need to go.

After both Brooks and Benson suffered falls at home,they decided it was time to consider assisted living. Brooksknew it was necessary, but giving up her beautiful home washard, especially her art studio. They contacted TheCommons of Hilltop because they knew it had a goodreputation and she liked choosing a local nonprofit that didso much good in the community. While meeting with TimFrasier, The Commons Director of Sales and Marketing,Brooks mentioned how much she was going to miss her artspace. Tim worked with the management team to come upwith a plan to build an art studio on The Commons grounds.Brooks would pay for the construction of an 18 by 24 foot

structure, and The Commons would cover the cost of thefoundation and running the utilities.

For Brooks it was the perfect solution. She will have alarge, light-filled space to continue painting, and eventuallyit will be donated to The Commons to be enjoyed by otherresidents. Brooks says, “It’s a miracle, a real gift from God,to be able to continue painting.” Brooks and Benson haverecently settled in at The Commons where they are meetinglots of great people and eagerly awaiting the completion oftheir art studio.For more information on The Commons of Hilltop call(970) 243-3333.


liberty, meaning no halter or lead rope, and the group wasnot allowed to touch, coerce, manipulate, or force Chief togo with them through the course. Instead, they had tobecome fully present and mindfully grounded in such a waythat Chief willingly went with them. John insisted onremaining outside of the round pen while Blaine and theyouth tried three times unsuccessfully to get Chief to walkthe obstacle course with them.

Then Chief decided to change the status quo. He walkeddirectly over to the gate and began flipping the gate chain asif to open it. Blaine called out, “John, I think Chief wantsyou to come in.” John hesitantly entered the pen and helped

lead the group, with Chief right behind them, through theentire course. John was all smiles, hopping up and down andexclaiming, “Dude, that was tight! I did it!”

As the youth huddled in the center of the pen to debriefthe experience, Chief walked up and placed his head rightinto the group. The youth began petting his neck andthanking him, then John reached out his open-palm andslowly stroked the blaze on Chief’s face. Chief hadinstinctively gotten a scared John to feel safe and to celebratewhat it’s like to belong.For more information on Steadfast Steeds MustangSanctuary go to steadfaststeeds.org

FortheLoveof Art

Brooks Powell has always been involved with art.When her husband Benson retired they moved toGrand Junction from Kansas, and Brooks began

participating in art workshops. She most enjoys paintingWestern Colorado landscapes with oils on linen panels.

Brooks Powell discovered moving into The Commons of Hilltop didn’t mean giving up her beloved art studio.

Brooks says, “Our world is beautiful. I wanted to capturesome of the magical things I see and to share my vision withothers.” Brooks shows her work at The Blue Pig Gallery,Western Colorado Center for the Arts, and at the Oil Paintersof America juried show.

WraparoundHilltop’s Family Resource Center helped JoAnn build a support team to meet all her family’s challenges.

JoAnn first became aware of Hilltop back in 1999when she contacted Latimer House for help fleeing adomestic violence relationship. JoAnn also workedfor Hilltop’s Residential Youth Services program.Having been diagnosed with depression and other

medical issues, JoAnn was prescribed medications that lefther feeling cloudy and unaware of what was going onaround her.

Her sons weregetting into fights atschool and doingdrugs. JoAnn says,“Seeing my childrenget into trouble withthe law was a reallyhard thing. I toldthem they didn’t getinto this situation bythemselves, it was apart of the processof the life they hadlived.” They wereliving in anenvironment thatwasn’t safe, surrounded by drug use and violence. A familyfriend said, “You’re going into a war zone every time you gohome.” When JoAnn’s two middle sons, James and Larry,were committed to the Division of Youth Services, she wasactually grateful. At least she knew where they were, andthat they would finally get help.

JoAnn knew she wasn’t aware enough to be there for herfamily, so she took herself off her medications and clarityslowly returned. She then turned to Hilltop’s FamilyResource Center, where she was able to access a wide rangeof wraparound services specifically designed to help with allthe issues she and her family were dealing with. JoAnninitially met with Sandy, her case manager, who set up ateam to troubleshoot issues and help set goals. JoAnn says,“Sandy’s help, compassion, and coordination wereinvaluable to our team and family.”

JoAnn’s goals included getting help for her youngest son,

Carlos, who was living at home. Carlos was matched upwith Kevin, a mentor with Hilltop’s Get Real Program.Together they developed goals for Carlos, including schoolachievement, improving his relationship with his family, andparticipating in pro-social activities like joining the footballteam. JoAnn says, “Kevin has become a positive male rolemodel for Carlos, showing him what it is to be a man of hisword. More importantly, Kevin has been there, he shows up

when he says hewill, and leads byexample.”

Hilltop FamilyResource Centerstaff worked withJames and Larry,helping tocoordinate theirplacement intreatment facilitiesthrough the Divisionof Youth Services.By workingtogether, the teamensured James and

Larry were a part of the family’s goal setting and counseling.Rick, a Hilltop Youth Advocate also worked with the boys,helping mentor them through their treatment programs andguiding them as they process emotions and move past thenegativity in their lives.

JoAnn’s oldest son, Joshua, is living on his own andrecently completed Job Corps training in Montana. Throughthe family’s determination, The Family Resource Center wasable to help them find safe and sustainable housing, and ishelping JoAnn to secure employment. JoAnn says, “I am sograteful to Hilltop’s Family Resource Center, theirwraparound programs, and each member of our team. Theirhelp has motivated us to accomplish a great deal and I knowit is only the beginning.” For more information about Hilltop’s Family ResourceCenters call (970) 244-0600 in Grand Junction, or (970) 252-7445 in Montrose.


Mike StahlChief Executive Officer

Carter BairChief Financial Officer

Andrea PodgornyDirector

Human Resources

Angie WickershamDirector

Life Adjustment Program

Will HaysChief Operating Officer

Kellee EchaveDirector

Corporate Administration

Jed BalestrieriSenior Director

Program Operations

Jackie SieversDirector

Latimer House

Sue ConryDirector

MC Family Resource Center

Josie AndersDirector

Montrose Family Resource Center

Hollie VanRosendaalDirector

Employment & Training

Debbie AullDirector

Information Technology

Colleen AndersonDirector

Fiscal Services

Jon TadvickDirector

The Fountains

Mike GreenDirector

Marketing & Development

Candice BattersonDirector

Residential Youth Services

Don KendallDirector

Property Services

Cathy StorySenior DirectorSenior Life Options

Hilltop Management Team

Josh BectonDirector

The Commons


We celebrate our 12 Mission Award winners for 2018.These individuals represent the best of Hilltop from all

its wide ranging programs and services.


J U LY

Laura PuenteCase Manager - Latimer House

Laura works with people who are in crisisdue to domestic violence and sexual assault.Laura’s specializes as a kid’s and bilingualadvocate. Laura is one of the most kind and

compassionate people who is passionateabout her participants and strives to givethem the best possible outcomes. Laura

brings joy and humor to everything she does.

A U G U S T

Mallory RodriguezMedication Coordinator – Life Adjustment Program

Three years ago, Mallory spearheadedefforts to improve the medication systemsat the Life Adjustment Program, helping toensure the safety and care of the residents.Mallory is calm and generous, providingleadership opportunities for her team and

building strong personal relationships with the residents.

S E P T E M B E R

Nick VillarmiaLife Enrichment Manager – The Commons

Nick is resident centered, expertlyadapting wellness programs to their

specific needs. Nick plans special outingsdesigned to ignite resident’s passions,

including a modified downhill skiing trip.Nick also hosts Something Sweet and

Trivia, where he often learns more thanthe residents, much to their amusement.

O C T O B E R

Stacey YoungPurchasing Agent – Hilltop Purchasing

Stacey is efficient and a born multi-tasker.She understands Hilltop is more than a nineto five organization, and is driven to makesure programs have everything they need,when they need it. Stacey is also an avidcrafter who loves decorating the offices.Stacey is always willing to look for new

and more efficient ways to do things.

N O V E M B E R

Paige CadmanSpecial Events Coordinator – Hilltop Marketing

Paige is responsible for Hilltop’s mostvisible events including the Men in Heels

Race and Extraordinary Women. Paigelives Hilltop’s values everyday, bringing a

genuine happiness and perkiness that iscontagious. Paige continues to grow in her

position and is beginning to take ontraining for Hilltop.

D E C E M B E R

Mary SmithLife Enrichment – Life Adjustment ProgramMary is often referred to as grandma by

residents and staff, not because of her age,but because of her caring and protective

nature. Mary provides a cheerful outlook,even during the most trying of times. Maryis a bright spot during resident activities,

she is the first one out for karaoke, and hasexceptional popcorn making skills.

{ }J A N U A R Y

2018 MissionAward Winners


Mandy SummerWorkman’s Comp Coordinator - Hilltop HRMandy is one of those leaders who puts

people first and always takes responsibility.Mandy is as helpful and responsive aspossible. She is a quiet superstar who

always wants to do the best for Hilltop.Mandy jumps into every challenge,

including participating in the talent showand dance-off against Sea World.

F E B R U A R Y

Melissa GonzalesCase Manager - Family Resource Center

Melissa works with youth in the JuvenileJustice System who can be challenging andunpredictable, but Melissa has a demeanorthat allows her to build rapport and get thejob done. Her devotion to her clients andcoworkers goes above and beyond, often

working beyond her schedule to make sureeveryone gets the best service possible.

M A R C H

Dharma JensenDining Room Manager - The Fountains

Dharma came on board at the Fountainsduring a hard transition period. Dharmastepped up and showcased her ability toengage with her staff. She built a strongteam dedicated to providing outstanding

customer service to the residents. Dharmais always available when needed, often

covering open shifts.

A P R I L

Tracey JohnsonCase Manager – Pathways Village

Tracey works with over 100 homelessclients a year, helping them develop

permanency and stability in their lives. Shedoes this without getting rattled and with a

smile on her face. She treats individuals withrespect and goes above and beyond planninga Christmas party and Angel Tree to make

sure everyone has a special holiday.

M A Y

Timi MeyerTeacher - Residential Youth Services

Timi is fearless in teaching a broad rangeof learners in her one room RYS school.She shares her love in learning in a kindand respectful way. After struggling in

traditional schools, her students now saylearning is fun, I can learn! Timi’s drive for

excellence has been recognized by theColorado Department of Education.

J U N E

Erin ChrestFamily Navigator – Family Resource CenterErin puts people first and is eager to meetwith clients, making sure they leave with

the support they need. Erin is always opento expanding her position to meet a need,

including becoming a car seat safetytechnician, Love and Logic course

instructor, and even a participant in theDancing with the Stars competition.

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How do you measure “success” when your goal is making a difference in people’s lives?At Hilltop we celebrate each individual served, knowing we have touched a life and

helped make a positive difference in our community.

Beyond Numbers

Hilltop Revenues$37,880,198

Private44%

Government Contracts

26%

Other8% Donations/

Fundraising2%

Medicaid/Medicare

21%

Hilltop Expenses$35,694,774

Salaries49%

Benefits16%

Other8% Supplies

2%

Participant Costs5%

Facility Expenses

16%Food3%

6,159referrals made by Western Colorado 2-1-1 staff to individuals looking foressential human services includingemployment, food pantries, addictionprevention, aging, and more.

315 pregnant women turned to Hilltop’s B4 Babies &Beyond program to access qualityhealth care, tobacco cessation services,and support, to give their baby the bestpossible start in life.

$151,201amount of benefits claimed by MesaCounty Veterans through the WorkforceCenter’s Veteran’s Services Officer, including health care, education, and housing.

Hilltop Financials Fiscal year ending 7/31/18

375Christmas Eve mealsdelivered to homeboundseniors. Hilltop volunteersand kitchen staff cametogether in the spirit of theseason to serve Meals onWheels clients while theirstaff enjoyed one of onlytwo days off a year.

$17.7 Millionof Hilltop’s revenue came from outsideour community, contributing to ourlocal economy and benefitting thethousands of clients we serve.

Latimer Houseprovided critical services to anyonefacing domestic violence or sexualassault including answering 2,966 crisiscalls, safehouse accommodations for244 individuals, as well as providingadvocacy, counseling, referrals, groups,and transitional housing.

91 Adults with TBI(Traumatic Brain Injuries) call the LifeAdjustment program home. This uniqueprogram offers them the mostindependent life possible, includingaccess to a wide range of events likeCountry Jam, baseball games, and theirown Run, Walk & Roll fun 4K.

21,609 Hourswere contributed by 186 Hilltopvolunteers in 2018. Volunteers applytheir skills in new and creative wayswhile helping the children, youth,families, adults, and seniors we serve.

472 Peopleparticipated in the Workbased Learning& Training program through the MesaCounty Workforce Center. Animpressive 76% found employment,and 85 community employers foundthe quality staff they needed to keeptheir businesses thriving.

240 Youthparticipated in Hilltop’s Get Realprogram. This free, year roundprogram uses age appropriatecurriculum and activities to promotehigh school graduation, avoid drugsand alcohol, build self-esteem, andprevent pregnancy and sexuallytransmitted diseases.

the

Senior Daybreakopened its second location in Montrose,offering a combined 117 seniors withmemory loss a safe and secure dayprogram, and their caregivers a respitefrom caring for their loved ones at home.

172 Infantsare traveling more securely thanks to afree car seat safety check from Hilltop’sFamily First program. Car seats are alsoavailable for families that can’t affordthem.

Hilltop Health Accesshelped 2,369 individuals get the healthcare coverage they needed. Friendlystaff make the application process fastand easy, compare coverage options,and check for available discounts.


Foundations &Grantors

($1,000 or more between 8/1/17 to 7/31/18)

American Lung AssociationArea Agency on Aging (Mesa County)Baby & Me Tobacco Free Bacon Family FoundationBuell Foundation City of Grand Junction Colorado Department of Local AffairsColorado Department ofTransportation Colorado Division of CriminalJustice Colorado Domestic ViolenceProgramColorado Health Foundation Colorado Respite CoalitionColorado Sexual AssaultResponse Program Connect for Health ColoradoDaniels Fund Discount Tire Foundation El Pomar FoundationEmergency Solutions GrantFirst United Methodist ChurchGrand Junction Rotary ClubHill Foundation Jared Polis FoundationJohnson Foundation of theRockiesMarch of Dimes Maternal Infant EarlyChildhood Home Visit Mesa County CommunityServices Block GrantMesa County Physicians IPA Mesa County TemporaryAssistance for Needy FamiliesMontrose AltrusaMontrose CommunityFoundationNina Garde Trust Pinnacol Assurance Promoting Safe and StableFamilies Rocky Mountain Health Plans

Sam S. Bloom Foundation St. Mary’s Hospital Suncor Energy Telluride Foundation US Bank United Way of Mesa County Verizon Wireless Victim/Witness Assistance(VALE) Victims of Crime Act(VOCA) Wal-Mart Foundation Western ColoradoCommunity Foundation Western Colorado CommunityFoundation/WaldeckEndowment Fund Wilson Family Foundation

Major Funders($1,000 or more between 8/1/17 to 7/31/18)

Advanced RefrigerationHeating & AirAlpine BankAmerican Antique LumberAriel Clinical ServicesAudio Video ExpertsBeacon Senior NewspaperBruce BeierTilman and Pat BishopBNI Freedom Builders Chapter

Virgina BreyJohn and Teresa CamperChurch of the NativityCity of Grand JunctionColorado Canyons AssociationThe Daily SentinelDeep Creek, IncColleen DyekmanJudy DyrudEd Bozarth Cheverolet andBuickEide Bailly, LLPEnstrom CandiesEric D. Toth DMD PCFCI Constructors, Inc.First Presbyterian ChurchFlunison FundGood Shepherd CarpetGrand Junction HousingAuthorityGrand Junction RockiesGrand Mesa Medical SupplyHome Loan & InvestmentCompanyHeidi HornerGregory & Dorothy HoskinDoug HovdeShelley HydeImpact Promotional ProductsIMA of ColoradoInsight Financial Solutions

We thank the foundations and funders who provided support for Hilltop’s programs

that give people of all ages a chance at long-lasting success.

With GratitudeJames Grisier and Associates,LLCJG Management SystemsKen & Rose Marie JohnsonPiera KllanxhjaKREX News Channel 5Sallie LaHueCraig & Joanna LittleDarrel MattiviNancy MartinMBC Grand BroadcastingTheodore and Terri MeinholdMesa County Women’sNetworkMontrose High School GolfClubMontrose Water FactoryMonument HomesMike and Kathy MoranDavid MorlanIsabelle NeffPhyllis NorrisMark & Joyce O’RearPatton’s Printing CoPatricia PowellPrimary Care PartnersRocky Mountain Health PlansRocky Mountain OrthopedicAssociatesShaver Family CharitableTrustShimmy MobSkyline ContractingDennis and Linda StahlSt. Mary’s HospitalSuperior AlarmRichard & GayleneThompsonTownSquareUnited CompaniesVectra BankCathy & Bruce WaitmanWestern Milling LLCWestern Slope Triple PlayGeorge WheelerWhitewater BuildingMaterialsRobert Zimmer

The Fountains(970) 243-88003203 N. 15th Street

www.TheFountainsGJ.org

The Commons(970) 243-3333625 27 1/2 Road

www.TheCommonsGJ.org

Location is everything

n 24-hour emergency response n Flexible care options to meet your current and future needs

n Customized wellness program helps you “Stay Fit for Life!”

n Temporary assisted stays

n Luxurious apartments with great views, spacious floorplans, and paid utilities

nRestaurant-style diningn Beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces andwalking trails

n Social activities and trips

Hilltop’s senior communities offer gracious living, personalized care, and unsurpassed amenities in a tranquil

neighborhood all your own.

When you choose Hilltop Senior Living Communities, you are supporting a nonprofit that has provided Western Colorado withcompassionate and comprehensive human services for over 65 years. Best of all, your money stays right here in our communitybringing vital services to those who need them most.

I N D E P E N D E N T L I V I N G | A S S I S T E D L I V I N G | M E M O R Y C A R E

Documents

HILLTOP...A VIEW FROM THE TOP x 4 Hilltop’s CEO and Board Chair letter. WE ARE HILLTOP x 5 Hilltop employees share why they are the perfect reflection of the community we serve