Building Bridges of Hope and Empowerment

featuring Cherri Houle, Executive Director of House of Neighborly Service

Cherri Houle is a beacon of hope and transformation as the Executive Director of House of Neighborly Service (HNS). Under her leadership, HNS has become more than just a nonprofit, it is a lifeline for individuals and families facing crisis, poverty, and instability in Northern Colorado. With a deep passion for compassionate service, she has revolutionized the way communities provide holistic support, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Cherri’s dedication to uplifting the most vulnerable speaks volumes about the experiences that shaped her. Her unwavering belief in the power of community has driven her to create innovative solutions that remove barriers to essential resources. At House of Neighborly Service, Cherri has pioneered the Life Center model, a groundbreaking initiative that unites nonprofits, government agencies, and community resources under one roof. This model streamlines access to food, housing, financial assistance, and life skills training, giving people a pathway to long-term stability instead of temporary relief.

Her leadership is characterized by a bold vision and an unshakable commitment to dignity, ensuring that every individual who walks through HNS’s doors is met with respect, care, and the tools to rebuild their lives. Cherri is a fierce advocate for systemic change, believing that true empowerment goes beyond providing aid, it creates opportunities for self-sufficiency. She has led regional collaborations addressing homelessness, food insecurity, and financial hardship, breaking down silos between organizations to provide comprehensive, wraparound support.

Her advocacy has helped shape public policy conversations around poverty, ensuring that government and nonprofit leaders recognize the power of integrated social services in creating lasting change. Cherri’s influence extends beyond House of Neighborly Service. She is a sought-after voice in Northern Colorado’s nonprofit sector, sharing her expertise on collaborative service models and community-driven solutions. She has also played a critical role in strengthening partnerships with local foundations, businesses, and faith-based organizations, ensuring that support for vulnerable populations remains a community-wide priority.

Cherri believes that no one should be defined by their struggles and that real change comes when we empower individuals to take control of their futures. Looking ahead, she envisions a future where every community across the country adopts a Life Center approach, making essential services more accessible and more effective. Her mission is to inspire a movement, one where compassion meets action and every person has the opportunity to thrive. Cherri Houle is not just a leader, she is a catalyst for transformation. Her work has redefined how communities support, uplift, and empower those in crisis. Through innovation, advocacy, and an unbreakable belief in human dignity, she continues to shape a legacy of hope that will impact generations to come.

Empowering Black Entrepreneurship and Financial Success

Featuring Malcolm R. Evans, Board Chairman of Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce and Colorado Managing Director of Wintrust Bank 

Malcolm R. Evans serves as the Colorado Managing Director for Wintrust Bank, leading the Denver-based commercial banking team fostering economic growth and supporting businesses statewide. His extensive experience has given him the tools and knowledge to help businesses thrive. Malcolm’s professional experience led him to serve as the Board Chairman of the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC), where he has advocated for the success and viability of Black business owners since 2015.

With over 30 years of banking experience, Evans has held prominent leadership roles in the financial sector. Before joining Wintrust, he served as Senior Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager at UMB Bank, specializing in business development and portfolio management for middle-market corporate clients across Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico. His extensive career also includes leadership positions at Zions Bancorp (dba Vectra Bank Colorado) and BBVA Compass Bank (now PNC), where he focused on commercial banking, helping businesses navigate financial challenges and seize new opportunities.

As the Chair of the CBCC, the chamber has strengthened its advocacy for Black entrepreneurs, providing crucial resources, networking opportunities, and partnerships that enhance the viability of Black-owned businesses. He has played a key role in forging alliances, such as the chamber’s collaboration with Kleinfelder to support the Black Construction Group, helping to elevate Black professionals in the industry. His commitment extends beyond direct business support; he actively advocates for policies that increase economic opportunities for Black business owners, ensuring access to capital, contracts, and sustainable growth strategies.

Beyond banking and business advocacy, Evans has demonstrated a deep commitment to social justice and community empowerment. In addition to his role at the CBCC, he serves as Chair of the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network (RMIAN), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free legal services to immigrants and children facing detention and deportation. His work with RMIAN highlights his passion for equity and justice, ensuring vulnerable populations receive the legal representation and support they need.

Through his extensive leadership roles, Evans has made a lasting impact on minority-owned businesses, financial empowerment, and social advocacy in Colorado. His dedication to fostering economic opportunity, advocating for underserved communities, and mentoring the next generation of business leaders continues to inspire and drive meaningful change.