(November 15, 2017) – Warren Village was just named the “Community Impact” winner at Bank of the West’s Philanthropy Awards. Along with the honor of being recognized for advancing economic self-sufficiency, Bank of the West has also awarded Warren Village with $100,000.
The Philanthropy Awards began in 2010 as a way to highlight nonprofits’ game-changing programs. The awards align with Bank of the West’s sustainable development goals, which include poverty alleviation and environmental stewardship.
“We are pleased to recognize extraordinary leadership in the nonprofit sector, and it is our hope that the Bank of the West Philanthropy Awards inspire others to participate in a shared vision of making our world a better place,” said Pierre Ramadier, Senior Executive Vice President and Head of the Wealth Management Group.
Warren Village’s CEO, Ethan Hemming, and Director of Development, Sophie Steuer, accepted the award on November 14, 2017 at the Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino, California.
“I am here to accept the Community Impact award on behalf of the single moms and dads at Warren Village who are working so hard to change the direction of their lives, for our visionary board of Trustees, our dedicated and tireless staff, and really, our community,” said Ethan Hemming as he spoke at the Philanthropy Awards. “With this investment, Bank of the West is creating opportunity and providing hope to our community and these aspiring families. It is by no means an easy or quick journey.”
Warren Village offers comprehensive programs for low income, single-parent families in Denver. The programs include affordable housing, education and job development services, childcare, and life-skills courses. Every year, the organization helps approximately 145 families transition out of difficult life circumstances to a stable and healthy environment to benefit themselves and their children.
Academy Award winning actor Forest Whitaker was the guest speaker at the Philanthropy Awards event held at the Huntington Library and Gardens. Mr. Whitaker is the founder and CEO of the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative, co-founder and chair of the International Institute for Peace, UNESCO Special Envoy for Peace and Reconciliation, and a member of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Advocacy Group.
Ethan Hemming concluded his acceptance speech by saying, “I have looked into parent’s eyes when they come to Warren Village. I have seen the pain, the fear, the exhaustion. But I have also seen the determination and the resolve. Bank of the West recognizes the paradox in our community and understands the power of opportunity and the inherent strength of individuals who are ready to change their lives.”
View the Bank of the West produced a video about Warren Village that was played at the Philanthropy Awards.
Member of the Colorado media interested in covering the story? Contact Lily Ruiz with Bank of the West at 415.765.4850 or email at Lily.Ruiz@BankoftheWest.com; or contact Erica Boniface with Warren Village at 303.717.8246 or email at Erica@ColoradoMediaNetwork.com.
