Mission Statement

Tri-Lakes Cares is a community-based non-profit agency serving the Tri-Lakes area in Northern El Paso County that improves people's lives by providing emergency assistance, self-sufficiency programs and other social services.

Core Service Values

Individuals and families seeking assistance at Tri-Lakes Cares can expect that we will:

• Provide a hopeful atmosphere
• Treat you with dignity and respect
• Always respect your confidentiality
• Serve you and not judge you
• Work hard to help you through a challenging time(s)
• Smile often

Tri-Lakes Cares expects that those seeking assistance will:

• Fully disclose details of the situation including support systems and income
• Use the programs we offer to improve their own situation
• Explore the referral services we recommend in a timely manner
• Use goods obtained at TLC solely for our own needs
• Respect our guidelines for service
• Supervise children in their care

History of TLC

In November of 1984, a group of like-minded, community-spirited citizens of the Tri-Lakes area founded Tri-Lakes Cares (TLC).  Believing that there was strength in a centralized organization to help those in need, this group began to keep a small food pantry, some used clothing and with cash donations helped with financial emergencies on a very limited basis.  After several temporary homes, the Lewis-Palmer School District granted TLC, rent-free, the use of the 3500 square foot basement level of the school administration building.  TLC occupied this space until District 38 needed expansion required us to move in March of 2003.

After several years, this group of dedicated volunteers hired a part-time director and organized a formal board of directors to oversee its operation.  In 1988, TLC received its tax-exempt status.

During the intervening years, TLC has grown slowly and provided human services to the towns of Monument, Palmer Lake, Woodmoor, and sections of Black Forest (District 38), then expanded to include Gleneagle and the Air Force Academy.

TLC moved into its new building “A Community Resource Center” in June of 2007.  As our then board president, Scott Campbell, said at our Grand Opening, “this is a building that love built”.  Since that special day, we have resumed former programs and added new ones.  We continue to honor the past and look forward to future opportunities with a vision to make a difference every day.