Elevate Boulder Storytelling Audio Stories

ROSSANA LONGO:

Welcome to Elevate Boulder Stories, a series of podcasts that amplifies the voices of individuals who participated in the Elevate Boulder program. The pilot initiative, launched in 2023, provided direct assistance to low-income individuals. Participants received $500 a month with no strings attached—the freedom to make personal choices that build stability, dignity, and peace of mind.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder gave many people the breathing room to manage their finances, care for their mental health, and even begin saving for the future. It also met people where they are, supporting each person’s unique needs and circumstances.

Today, we meet Alexa, whose story weaves together family history, music, and the feeling of finally being able to stand on her own. Alexa carries her grandmother’s Holocaust-survival story in her heart and uses music to connect past and present. Through the Elevate Boulder program, she found the space to stay housed, live independently, and keep helping others—something she says matters even more than money.

When we sat down to talk, Alexa didn’t want to begin with herself. She wanted to start with her grandmother, a Holocaust survivor who came to the United States as a teenager.

ALEXA:

My grandma came to America. She was from Berlin, Germany. She was a Holocaust survivor. She had a hard childhood when she was a little girl, and she also had a very hard life growing up. She was almost in a concentration camp. Her parents took her on the Kindertransport. She was very scared to lose her family because she didn’t know if they would survive, or if she would ever see them again when she came to America.

ROSSANA LONGO:

To honor that journey, Alexa shared a song that connects her grandmother’s story to Ellis Island and to all those who came in search of safety and a new beginning.

ALEXA:

The song I’m going to play is "Isle of Hope, Isle of Tears" by Celtic Thunder.

Alexa plays the song:

On the first day of January 1892

They opened Ellis Island and they let the people through

And the first to cross the threshold of that isle of hope and tears

Was Annie Moore from Ireland who was all of 15 years

Isle of hope, isle of tears

Isle of freedom, isle of fears

But it's not the isle you left behind

That isle of hunger, isle of pain

Isle you'll never see again

But the isle of home is always on your mind

In a little bag, she carried all her past and history

And her dreams for the future in the land of liberty

And courage is the passport when your old world disappears

But there's no future in the past when you're 15 years

Isle of hope, isle of tears

Isle of freedom, isle of fears

But it's not the isle you left behind

That isle of hunger, isle of pain

Isle you'll never see again

But the isle of home is always on your mind

When they closed down Ellis Island in 1943

17 million people had come there for sanctuary

And in springtime when I came here and I stepped onto its piers

I thought of how it must have been when you're 15 years

Isle of hope, isle of tears

Isle of freedom, isle of fears

But it's not the isle you left behind

That isle of hunger, isle of pain

Isle you'll never see again

But the isle of home is always on your mind

But the isle of home is always on your mind

ROSSANA LONGO:

Alexa explained that her grandmother’s story is part of her everyday life, shaping her identity and the way she connects with the world.

I asked Alexa to tell me more about her own story and her life in Boulder.

ALEXA:

I grew up in Boulder. My name is Alexa. I have a true story about my life. When I was younger, my birth mom passed away. I saw the accident when I was very young, about five years old. It was my first day of school. I felt like I didn’t even want to go back because people were being really mean to me. I was getting bullied a lot.

Technically, my dad raised me almost my whole life. In 2002, my dad got married to my mom now, and she adopted me. So technically, I haven’t had a mother for a really long time. I just felt very lonely without another family member. It was pretty hard. Colorado was not perfect for me sometimes. I always wanted to move.

ROSSANA LONGO:

I asked Alexa how Elevate Boulder changed things for her and what this support has meant in her everyday life.

ALEXA:

It helped me with my rent and groceries. My rent was going up so many times, and I felt like my parents didn’t want that to happen to me. I thought I would have to move back to my home up in the mountains, but because of this program, I’m so happy they paid for my rent and food. I’m living normal now.

ROSSANA LONGO:

For Alexa, “normal” means something very specific: being able to live independently, stay in Boulder, and not have to move back in with her family just to survive.

ALEXA:

“This program is super nice. It helps you get money. It helps you find housing.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Her story sits alongside her grandmother’s, and her own love for music—connected by a shared thread: the hope of safety, dignity, possibility, and a place to call home.

I asked her what it means to her to give back.

ALEXA:

I feel like I want people to be helped and taken care of.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Being part of Elevate Boulder doesn’t just mean receiving support for Alexa. It means being connected to a community and feeling able to give back.

She told me that singing lessons help her calm down, ground herself, and feel connected to the memory of both her birth mother and her grandmother.

ALEXA:

It helps me calm down when I take singing lessons. I just feel like I’m in my own world. There is a song my birth mom sang to me when I was a little girl, and also my grandma. It means a lot to me. And I can sing it in German.

Alexa sings the lullaby:

Guten Morgen, guten Morgen,

Guten Morgen, mein Liebchen.

Komm heraus nun, aus dem Haus nun,

Komm heraus nun aus dem Stübchen,

Denn die Sonn', denn die Sonn',

Denn die Sonne ist da.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Music remains a constant thread in Alexa’s life—connecting her to her grandmother, to her own history, and to her journey of belonging today.

Alexa’s story reflects the deeper impact of Elevate Boulder, a program that not only eased financial stress but helped restore dignity, freedom, and a sense of home for the people who live and contribute to our community.

The pilot project has ended, but the City of Boulder is working to secure new funding to continue programs like this—programs that recognize the power of unconditional support to change lives and adapt to each person’s needs.

You can explore more inspiring stories told through monologues, photos, videos, biographies, and podcasts on the Elevate Boulder storytelling page at BoulderColorado.gov.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers who believe that when we listen to one another, we build stronger and more compassionate communities.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Welcome to Elevate Boulder Audio Stories, a series that amplifies the voices of participants in the Elevate Boulder program. This pilot initiative, launched in 2023, provided direct cash assistance to low-income individuals. Participants received $500 a month with no strings attached, giving them the freedom to make personal choices that bring stability, dignity, and peace of mind.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder offered many people long-overdue breathing room—space to manage their finances, care for their mental health, and finally begin saving for the future. The program also met people where they are, supporting each person’s unique goals.

Today we meet Kellie, who used this opportunity to regain control of her finances, support her son, and begin building a foundation for long-term security. Her story is a powerful reminder that when people are trusted and supported, they can thrive.

When Kellie moved for college, she didn’t expect her new beginning to come with so many challenges.

KELLIE:
My name’s Kellie. I moved here in 2019 for college—I was planning to go to Naropa. Almost immediately, things got off to a really rough start.

I moved in with strangers, like a lot of college students do, and it turns out two of my roommates were on drugs. Then I got into a car accident. I broke my hand and had to have a couple of surgeries. I lost my only method of transportation. I was having a really rough go of it. I dropped out of my program.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Kellie’s story highlights a reality familiar to many who move to Boulder: the high cost of living, limited affordable housing, and the isolation that can come with starting over.
I asked her how she managed to move forward after such a difficult start.

KELLIE:
By the time I applied for Elevate Boulder, I was no longer dealing with drug-addicted roommates. I had resolved all my college issues. My hand had been healed for years.
But it was still really hard just to make ends meet. Hard to have any money in savings.

I had to get myself into a car payment. My credit wasn’t the best, so I had a lease. By the time the lease ended, interest rates were way too high, so I had to buy out the vehicle. It was a terrible financial decision, but I didn’t have a choice. Having that car payment hanging over me was really weighing on me.

And then I had this moment—turning 40—and realizing: I don’t have any money in retirement. I don’t have any savings. What am I going to do?

For a long time, I would joke about it—like, “My retirement plan is suicide,” which is, unfortunately, a very millennial thing to say. But really, there was no plan.
As I was turning 40, I thought, This has to change. I have to do something.

And that same year, I was selected for Elevate Boulder.

ROSSANA LONGO:
That selection marked a turning point. With Elevate Boulder’s monthly payments—and her job’s new retirement plan—Kellie finally saw a path forward.

KELLIE:
My work started a 403(b), which is like a 401(k) for nonprofits. They offer a 3% match and a contribution. So they’re matching me, and they’re also putting in several hundred dollars a month.

I was finally in a position where I could afford to put part of my salary toward savings and retirement. It hasn’t been long, but now I have something. I feel like I’m in a better position.
But you can’t contribute to retirement if every dollar you make goes to rent.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Kellie’s journey mirrors that of many working in Boulder’s nonprofit sector, where meaningful work often comes with financial strain. Elevate Boulder provided something deeper than relief—it offered respect and freedom.

And that hope reached beyond her own life, extending to her role as a mom.

KELLIE:
When do you ever have a couple of extra thousand dollars laying around when you work at a nonprofit and live in Boulder?
I have so many blessings, and I’m not ungrateful. But having a little breathing room… it made a huge difference.

My son went to prom, and it felt so good to hand him my credit card when he was going to dinner and tell him to have a good time—not to worry, not to say, “You can only spend this much,” or, “I’m sorry, I can’t help you.”
Things I’m not normally able to do for him came a lot easier. And that’s nice.

Being on this program felt so good. I wish so many more people could have the opportunity to feel the way I felt. I know it was only two years, but it was enough to make a lasting change in my life.

If we could do this for other people who are struggling to make ends meet, we’d have much more fulfilled people. Mental health outcomes would be better. Kids who aren’t hungry do better in school. These things last.

The things I was able to do for myself during those two years will stay with me. I’m only going to continue building on these better financial outcomes and better decisions. I feel good.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Moments like that—small, but full of meaning—show the real power of unconditional assistance. Kellie’s story demonstrates how stability builds confidence, and how confidence builds community.

Her story reflects the deeper impact of Elevate Boulder: a program that not only eases financial stress but restores dignity, freedom, and belonging for the people who live and contribute to our community.

The pilot project has ended, but the City of Boulder is working to secure new funding to continue programs like this—programs that recognize the power of unconditional support to change lives.

You can explore more powerful stories—told through monologues, photos, videos, autobiographies, and podcasts—on the Elevate Boulder storytelling page at BoulderColorado.gov.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers who believe that when we listen to one another, we build stronger, more compassionate communities.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Welcome to Elevate Boulder Audio Stories, a series that amplifies the voices of individuals who participated in the Elevate Boulder program. This pilot initiative, launched in 2023, provided direct cash assistance to low-income individuals. Participants received $500 a month with no strings attached—the freedom to make choices that build stability, dignity, and peace of mind.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder gave many people the breathing room to manage their finances, care for their mental health, find their passions, and save for the future. The program also met people where they are, supporting each person’s unique goals.

Today we meet Andy, a Boulder musician who used that flexibility to pursue his craft, build a home studio, and step more fully into his authentic self.
To begin, Andy introduces himself and the reality of trying to build a creative life in a high-cost city.

ANDY:
My name is Andy and my pronouns are he/him. I moved to Boulder in 2021.
My goal is to fully sustain myself through performing, recording, and writing music—doing it by myself and with others. I’ve already started that process, but it’s been really challenging.

And in 2022, I realized I was trans. That was a huge hurdle in the process.

ROSSANA LONGO:
That self-discovery brought clarity—and a new set of choices about how to live authentically.

ANDY:
Yeah, it’s like there were so many layers that had to get peeled back for me to come to terms with that truth about myself. There were plenty of signs pointing me toward it—like, you’re a dude, you’re a dude—but I wasn’t ready to accept it.

Finally, in early 2022, that last layer peeled back and I thought, I can’t ignore this anymore. This is my truth.
It was disheartening because I knew there was so much I’d have to do to really transition and fully embody my authentic self.

ROSSANA LONGO:
As Andy was finding his footing, Elevate Boulder arrived at the right moment—pairing unrestricted support with trust.

ANDY:
At the time I got the support, I had just started a new job and took a pay cut to work at a music store. Before that I was doing bike delivery for Jimmy John’s.

I needed to be doing something music-related. I just had to. I couldn’t put it off anymore. This is my dream—this is myself, this is my path.

I hoped I’d get paid more at a music store than delivering sandwiches, but when I realized that wasn’t the case, it was disheartening. Then I applied for this program, and with the cash assistance I thought, Maybe I can actually get ahead on my dreams. Maybe I can actually work toward things.

ROSSANA LONGO:
With that breathing room, Andy invested directly in his craft, building a small studio inside his apartment.

ANDY:
I built this little studio—almost six by six feet—in my apartment. I got the lumber, had help from friends hauling materials, bought panels for the walls, and got acoustic foam.

It was actually a rebuild because the first frame wasn’t strong enough. And even though I bought everything used or at a discount, and borrowed tools, it still took money.

Having that little extra cash meant I could actually work on it. It’s my recording space, my practice space, my office.

ROSSANA LONGO:
For Andy, the program’s no-strings-attached design wasn’t just convenient. It was respectful.

ANDY:
Why is it important to have freedom in how I spend the assistance?
I think it helps break down barriers between social classes. There’s this perception that people with lower incomes are irresponsible, or that it’s their fault they’re poor. That idea exists in the collective psyche.

This program does the opposite. It offers respect to people who need support—people like me. It breaks down that thought of, They don’t know how to spend money, so we have to tell them how.

No. We should all be equal. We should be able to spend our money as we see fit. Not everyone spends responsibly, but that’s personal choice. And honestly, we shouldn’t have to be in a position where we need financial support anyway.

Having a little extra, without restrictions, is empowering. It feels like, Oh, they care about me—about me as a whole person.

ROSSANA LONGO:
That respect helps dismantle stigma and assumptions around poverty and choice.

Andy also shared his long-term dream and why it matters.

ANDY:
My ideal dream is to make a living doing what I love—creating music. Singing, playing guitar, piano, drums, bass. Recording. Arranging music so it sounds just the way I like it.

Music is a lot of things for me. One big thing is that it helps me move through emotion.

And tying in my transition—it’s very different living as a man than living as a woman. When I lived as a woman, I felt more emotional freedom. As a man, I feel like that’s more limited.

Music helps me channel my emotions in a healthy way. And it’s a soul purpose. There’s a wisdom inside me that wants to come out through lyrics, melodies, basslines, rhythms. Things I want to share with other people about what I’ve learned—in a creative way that feels true to me.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Gratitude runs through Andy’s story, along with a belief that more people should have access to this kind of support.

ANDY:
I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of this—to have “won the lottery” for this program.
I’m humbled by the support I found here.

I’m the kind of person who tries to do everything by myself, but there comes a point where I can’t do it alone. This support has been a game-changer.

Everybody’s story is unique. No two stories are the same. When we hear this variety—this diversity of experience—it gives us a better picture of humanity.

And for people inside or outside Boulder who hear this, it shows that Boulder isn’t just rich people, top climbers, or people spending tons of money and driving Teslas. Boulder is so much more than that. And we are part of that. We’re part of that change.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Andy’s story reflects the deeper impact of Elevate Boulder, a program that not only eases financial stress but restores dignity, freedom, and belonging for people who live and contribute to our community.

The pilot project has ended, but the City of Boulder is working to secure new funding to continue programs like this—programs that recognize the power of unconditional support to change lives and adapt to each person’s needs.

You can explore more inspiring stories—told through monologues, photos, videos, autobiographies, and podcasts—on the Elevate Boulder storytelling page at BoulderColorado.gov.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers, myself included, who believe that when we listen to one another, we build stronger and more compassionate communities.

English translation of this conversation is below.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Bienvenidos a Elevate Boulder Podcast, una serie que amplifica las voces de las personas que participaron en el programa Elevate Boulder.

Lanzado como un programa piloto de ingresos garantizados, Elevate Boulder brindó apoyo económico directo a residentes de bajos ingresos en la ciudad de Boulder. Las familias seleccionadas recibieron 500 dólares al mes durante dos años, sin restricciones, con la confianza de que cada persona sabría cómo usar ese dinero según sus propias necesidades.

Financiado por el American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder ofreció algo poco común: un respiro. La posibilidad de cubrir gastos básicos, atender la salud, reducir el estrés y planificar con un poco más de calma.

En este episodio, escuchamos a Ana y Pedro, inmigrantes, padres de familia y residentes de Boulder, quienes comparten lo que ese respiro significó para su familia de siete personas.

ANA:

Tengo 39 años. Soy mamá de cinco niños. No trabajo fuera de casa; me dedico al hogar con ellos.

PEDRO:

Tengo 39 años. Este programa ha sido una ayuda para la familia. Somos siete.

ROSSANA LONGO

Ana y Pedro se enteraron del programa a través de la escuela de sus hijos, una puerta de acceso clave para muchas familias.

ANA:

La aplicación me la pasó la trabajadora de la escuela de mis niños, la de recursos humanos en Junior Hill. Ella nos la pasó y él fue quien aplicó, porque necesitaban comprobantes de ingresos.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Pedro trabaja en la construcción, en un empleo físicamente exigente que depende del ritmo de la economía.

PEDRO:

Estoy trabajando en una compañía donde hacemos estructuras para las casas, todo con madera. Es un trabajo duro.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Cuando las horas de trabajo bajaron, los gastos no se detuvieron.

ANA:

Cuando le bajaron las horas de trabajo a él, pagar la renta se volvió difícil. El mandado está súper caro. Entonces este apoyo fue un extra que no contemplábamos en el cheque, y ayudó mucho.

PEDRO:

En un tiempo me lastimé en el trabajo. Tuve que descansar y, en ese mismo tiempo, estaban despidiendo gente. Yo decía: ‘¿Qué voy a hacer?’ Pero gracias a Dios aquí sigo, y con este programa fue una gran ayuda.

ROSSANA LONGO:

A diferencia de otros apoyos, Elevate Boulder ofreció algo fundamental: libertad.

ANA:

Es bueno porque a veces, como con las estampillas, sólo puedes usar el dinero para ciertas cosas. Con esta ayuda, uno puede pagar la renta, la aseguranza del carro, consultas médicas… gastos que a veces uno no contempla.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Para Ana y Pedro, el impacto fue más allá del dinero.

ANA:

Nosotros, que somos inmigrantes, no tenemos las mismas oportunidades de trabajo que la gente de aquí.

Mis hijos, como nacieron aquí, tienen seguro médico. Pero nosotros no. Cuando él se lastimó, fue difícil ir a un lugar donde los gastos fueran algo que pudiéramos pagar. Uno hasta la piensa para enfermarse, porque son gastos que no tiene contemplados.

ANA

Este es un programa de mucha ayuda. Tiene beneficios económicos y emocionales, porque uno ya no se preocupa tanto. Y entonces puede disfrutar un poquito más del tiempo con la familia.

A veces uno se preocupa por buscar otro trabajo, pero no tiene tiempo para la familia. Yo tengo dos adolescentes, y es difícil mantenerlos ocupados y bien encaminados.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Pedro coincide. Para él, el mayor valor del programa fue el tiempo que recuperaron como familia.

PEDRO:

Casi siempre he estado en dos trabajos, pero como dice ella, nunca tienes tiempo para la familia.

Un programa como este te da la oportunidad de estar un poquito más con tu familia, de ver a tus niños crecer. A lo mejor hasta de tomar unas vacaciones.

Todos tenemos derecho a estar con nuestra familia.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Con el fin del programa acercándose, la familia sabe que vienen nuevos retos.

PEDRO:

Pues tocará buscar otro trabajo. No hay de otra. Venimos a buscar el bienestar para nuestra familia.

Tenemos una adolescente que probablemente va a estudiar la universidad. Eso es un gasto grande que todavía no tenemos.

ANA:

Mi hijo está en Boulder Tech. Quiere seguir estudiando, pero vienen otros gastos: otro carro, gasolina, la aseguranza que sube… todo se va acumulando.

No puedo quedarme sin carro porque tengo que llevar a los niños a la escuela, a citas médicas. Todo eso hace que los gastos suban mucho.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Antes de despedirnos, les pedí un mensaje final.

ANA:

Mi mensaje es que Elevate Boulder ayudó mucho a mi familia. Nos ayudó a pasar tiempo juntos, como familia, sin preocuparnos tanto por lo económico.

PEDRO:

Este programa fue muy bueno para nosotros y ojalá continúe. No sólo por nosotros. Hay muchas otras familias que también lo necesitan.

Muchas gracias por habernos elegido esta vez.

OUTRO

ROSSANA LONGO:

Las historias que escuchamos en Elevate Boulder Podcast nos recuerdan algo esencial:
cuando las personas tienen estabilidad, pueden planificar; cuando pueden planificar, pueden respirar; y cuando pueden respirar, pueden construir un futuro.

Mientras este programa piloto llega a su fin, la ciudad de Boulder y sus socios comunitarios continúan explorando qué viene después, y cómo apoyos basados en la confianza pueden seguir fortaleciendo a las familias.

Gracias a Ana y Pedro por compartir su historia. Y gracias a ustedes por escuchar.

Pueden encontrar más historias en audio, fotografía, video y texto en BoulderColorado.gov, buscando Elevate Boulder Stories.

Estas historias fueron creadas por un equipo de narradores locales, incluyéndome a mí, Rossana Longo, quienes creemos que escuchar con atención es la base de comunidades más fuertes y compasivas.

English Translation

ROSSANA LONGO:

Welcome to Elevate Boulder Podcast, a series that amplifies the voices of people who participated in the Elevate Boulder program.

Launched as a guaranteed income pilot, Elevate Boulder provided direct cash support to low-income residents in the city of Boulder. Selected families received $500 a month for two years, with no restrictions, trusting that each household would know how best to use that money according to their needs.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder offered something uncommon: breathing room — the possibility to cover basic expenses, address health needs, reduce stress, and plan with a little more calm.

In this episode, we hear from Ana and Pedro, immigrants, parents, and Boulder residents, who share what that breathing room meant for their family of seven.

ANA:

I’m 39 years old. I’m the mother of five children. I don’t work outside the home — I dedicate myself to the household and to them.

PEDRO

I’m 39 years old. This program has been a help for our family. We are seven people.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Ana and Pedro learned about the program through their children’s school — a key access point for many families.

ANA:

The application was given to us by the worker at my children’s school, the human resources staff at Junior Hill. She passed it on to us, and he was the one who applied, because they needed proof of income.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Pedro works in construction, a physically demanding job that depends on the rhythm of the economy.

PEDRO:

I work for a company where we build structures for houses, all with wood. It’s hard work.

ROSSANA LONGO:

When work hours were cut, expenses did not stop.

ANA:

When his work hours were reduced, paying the rent became difficult. Groceries are very expensive. So this support was an extra that we didn’t expect in the paycheck, and it helped a lot.

PEDRO:

At one point I got injured at work. I had to rest, and during that same time, people were being laid off. I kept thinking, ‘What am I going to do?’ But thank God I’m still working, and with this program, it was a great help.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Unlike other forms of assistance, Elevate Boulder offered something fundamental: freedom.

ANA:

It’s good because sometimes, like with food stamps, you can only use the money for certain things. With this help, you can pay rent, car insurance, medical visits — expenses that you don’t always plan for.

ROSSANA LONGO:

For Ana and Pedro, the impact went beyond money.

ANA:

We, as immigrants, don’t have the same job opportunities as people who are from here.

My children, because they were born here, have medical coverage. But the two of us don’t. When he got injured, it was hard to go somewhere with costs that we could afford. You even think twice about getting sick, because those are expenses you’re not prepared for.

ANA:

This is a program that helps a lot. It has both economic and emotional benefits, because you don’t worry so much.

And then you can enjoy a little more time with your family. Sometimes you worry about getting another job, but then you don’t have time for your family. I have two teenagers, and it’s difficult to keep them on track and occupied so they don’t get into other things.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Pedro agrees. For him, the greatest value of the program was the time they regained as a family.

PEDRO:

I have almost always worked two jobs, but like she says, you never have time for your family.

A program like this gives you the opportunity to be a little more present with your family, to watch your children grow. Maybe even to take a vacation.

Everyone has the right to be with their family.

ROSSANA LONGO:

As the program comes to an end, the family knows new challenges are ahead.

PEDRO:

We’ll have to look for another job. There’s no other option. We came here looking for well-being for our family.

We have a teenager who will probably go to college. That’s a big expense we don’t have covered yet.

ANA:

My son is at Boulder Tech. He wants to continue studying, but more expenses are coming — another car, gas, higher insurance costs. Everything adds up.

I can’t be without a car because I need to take the kids to school, to medical appointments. All of that makes expenses go up a lot.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Before we said goodbye, I asked them for a final message.

ANA:

My message is that Elevate Boulder helped my family a lot. It helped us spend time together as a family, without worrying so much about money.

PEDRO:

This program was very good for us, and I hope it continues. Not just for us — there are many other families who need it.

Thank you very much for choosing us this time.

ROSSANA LONGO:

The stories we hear through Elevate Boulder Podcast remind us of something essential:
when people have stability, they can plan; when they can plan, they can breathe; and when they can breathe, they can build a future.

As this pilot program comes to an end, the City of Boulder and its community partners continue exploring what comes next, and how trust-based support can continue strengthening families.

Thank you to Ana and Pedro for sharing their story.
And thank you for listening.

You can find more stories in audio, photography, video, and text at BoulderColorado.gov, by searching Elevate Boulder Stories.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers, including me, Rossana Longo who believe that listening deeply is the foundation of stronger, more compassionate communities.

English translation of this conversation is available below.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Bienvenidos a Elevate Boulder Podcast, una serie que amplifica las voces de las personas que participaron en el programa Elevate Boulder.

Este programa piloto de ingresos garantizados fue lanzado para brindar apoyo económico directo a residentes de bajos ingresos en la ciudad de Boulder. Las familias seleccionadas recibieron 500 dólares al mes, sin restricciones, con la libertad de usar ese dinero de acuerdo con sus necesidades.

Financiado por el American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder ofreció algo poco común: un respiro. La posibilidad de cubrir gastos básicos, atender la salud, reducir el estrés y planificar el futuro con mayor tranquilidad.

En este episodio escuchamos a Tomasa, quien llegó a Boulder hace diez años y enfrentó uno de los periodos más difíciles de su vida durante la pandemia. Su historia refleja cómo el apoyo incondicional puede sostener a una familia en momentos de profunda incertidumbre.

Escuchemos a Tomasa.

TOMASA:
Mi nombre es Tomasa. Vivo aquí en Boulder y tengo diez años de haber llegado. Me da mucho gusto que las personas que hacen posible Elevate Boulder apoyen a familias como la mía. Desde que empezaron a ayudarnos, nos ha ido mucho mejor.

Mucha gente estaba muy estresada porque no alcanzaba para la comida o para la renta. A nosotros este apoyo nos ayudó muchísimo. Mi esposo se enfermó y parte de esta ayuda fue para eso. Yo también me enfermé hace como un año, y de igual manera nos ayudó mucho.

Estamos muy agradecidos con las personas que apoyan de corazón. Fuimos pocas personas elegidas, pero Dios sabe por qué nos tocó a nosotros. Para mi familia ha sido una gran bendición.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Como para muchas familias, la pandemia marcó un antes y un después en la vida de Tomasa.

TOMASA:
Cuando llegó la pandemia nos quedamos sin trabajo. Mi esposo y yo a veces solo trabajábamos tres o cuatro horas al día. Nos endeudamos con la renta y tuvimos que pedir prestado al banco. Era un caos. No sabíamos si íbamos a salir de eso.

Fue justo cuando llegó esta ayuda. Nos cayó como una bendición del cielo.

Hubo momentos muy duros. Decíamos: nosotros podemos quedarnos sin comer, pero nuestra niña no. Ella pedía fruta, yogur, pan, y había veces que no sabíamos qué darle.

Ahora, si me pide algo, puedo decirle que sí. Podemos comprarle sus jugos, sus frutas, hasta unos zapatos si los necesita. Esta ayuda no nos limita. No nos piden comprobantes ni recibos. Esa libertad es lo más importante.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Le pregunté a Tomasa cómo se enteró del programa.

TOMASA:
Nos llegó un correo electrónico por parte de la escuela de mi hija, Columbine. Decía que había que registrarse y mandar documentos. Todo era por medio de una lotería.

Cuando nos avisaron que habíamos sido elegidos, fue una gran bendición. Mi invitación para otras personas es que lo intenten. Uno no pierde nada con intentarlo.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Para Tomasa, este proceso también ha sido profundamente espiritual.

TOMASA:
Hace un año perdí un bebé y aún me duele. Pero yo sé que si Dios no me dio esa oportunidad, Él sabe por qué. Yo nunca reniego de Dios. Siempre le doy gracias porque siempre me ha bendecido.

Todos tenemos nuestro propio costal que cargar. La vida no es perfecta y hay muchas injusticias, especialmente para nuestra gente latina. Vivimos en un país que no es el nuestro y sabemos que en cualquier momento nos pueden deportar.

Pero nosotros no venimos a hacer daño. Venimos a trabajar y a buscar un futuro, sobre todo para mi niña, que nació aquí.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Le pregunté cómo fue el momento en que recibió la confirmación oficial del programa.

TOMASA:
Fue por correo electrónico. A mi esposo le llegó el mensaje pidiendo documentos. Cuando vimos todo lo que solicitaban dijimos: entonces sí fuimos elegidos.

Fue una alegría enorme. Y si nos hubieran dicho que no, el intento se hacía igual. Pero cuando nos dijeron que sí, le dimos gracias a Dios.

A las personas que no fueron elegidas, les digo que no pierdan la fe. Si algún día vuelven a abrir este programa, su momento va a llegar.

ROSSANA LONGO — CIERRE:
Las historias que escuchamos en Elevate Boulder Podcast revelan un hilo común: cuando las personas tienen estabilidad, pueden planificar; cuando pueden planificar, pueden respirar; y cuando pueden respirar, pueden construir un futuro.

A medida que este programa piloto llega a su fin, la Ciudad de Boulder y sus socios comunitarios evalúan los próximos pasos con la esperanza de continuar o ampliar este tipo de apoyo.

Tomasa, gracias por abrir tu corazón y compartir tu historia.
Y gracias a ustedes por escuchar.

Para conocer más historias contadas a través de monólogos, fotografías, videos, autobiografías y podcasts, visiten BoulderColorado.gov y busquen Elevate Boulder Stories.

Estas historias fueron creadas por un equipo de narradores locales, incluida yo, Rossana Longo-Better, quienes creemos que al escucharnos unos a otros construimos comunidades más fuertes y compasivas.

English Translation

ROSSANA LONGO:

Welcome to Elevate Boulder Podcast, a series that amplifies the voices of people who participated in the Elevate Boulder program.

This guaranteed income pilot was launched to provide direct cash support to low-income residents in the City of Boulder. Selected households received five hundred dollars a month with no restrictions, trusting participants to decide how best to use the money.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder offered something rare: breathing room. The chance to cover basic expenses, care for health, reduce stress, and plan for the future with greater stability.

In this episode, we hear from Tomasa, who moved to Boulder ten years ago and faced one of the most difficult periods of her life during the pandemic. Her story shows how unconditional support can help families survive uncertainty.

Let’s listen to Tomasa.

TOMASA:
My name is Tomasa. I live here in Boulder and I’ve been here for ten years. I’m very grateful to the people who make Elevate Boulder possible. Since we started receiving support, things have been much better for my family.

Many people were extremely stressed because they couldn’t afford food or rent. This support helped us a lot. My husband got sick, and part of this help went toward that. I also got sick about a year ago, and it helped us then too.

We are very thankful to the people who give from the heart. Only a few families were selected, but God knows why it was our turn. It has been a great blessing for my family.

ROSSANA LONGO:
For Tomasa, the pandemic marked a breaking point.

TOMASA:
When the pandemic started, we lost our jobs. My husband and I were sometimes only working three or four hours a day. We fell behind on rent and had to borrow money from the bank. It was chaos. We didn’t know if we would get through it.

That’s when this support arrived. It felt like a blessing from heaven.

There were very hard moments. We would say, we can go without eating, but our daughter can’t. She would ask for fruit, yogurt, bread, and sometimes we didn’t know what to give her.

Now, when she asks for something, I can say yes. We can buy her juice, fruit, even shoes if she needs them. This support doesn’t limit us. We don’t have to show receipts. That freedom is what matters most.

ROSSANA LONGO:
I asked Tomasa how she learned about the program.

TOMASA:
We received an email from my daughter’s school, Columbine. It explained that we had to register and submit documents. Everything was done through a lottery.

When we found out we had been selected, it was a huge blessing. My message to others is to try. You lose nothing by trying.

ROSSANA LONGO:
For Tomasa, this experience is also deeply connected to faith.

TOMASA:
A year ago, I lost a baby, and it still hurts. But I know that if God didn’t give me that opportunity, He had a reason. I never complain about God. I always give thanks because He has always blessed me.

We all carry our own burdens. Life isn’t perfect, and there are many injustices, especially for Latino communities. We live in a country that isn’t ours, and we know deportation is always a possibility.

But we didn’t come here to harm anyone. We came to work and build a future, especially for my daughter, who was born here.

ROSSANA LONGO:
I asked Tomasa to describe the moment she received official confirmation.

TOMASA:
It came by email. My husband received a message asking for documents. When we saw everything they requested, we realized we had been selected.

It was such a joyful moment. And if we had been told no, at least we would have tried. But when we were told yes, we thanked God.

To those who weren’t selected, I say don’t lose faith. If this program opens again, your moment will come.

ROSSANA LONGO — OUTRO:
The stories we hear on Elevate Boulder Podcast share a common thread: when people have stability, they can plan; when they can plan, they can breathe; and when they can breathe, they can build a future.

As this pilot program comes to an end, the City of Boulder and its community partners are evaluating next steps, with hope that this kind of support can continue or expand.

Tomasa, thank you for sharing your story. And thank you for listening.

To explore more stories told through monologues, photographs, videos, autobiographies, and podcasts, visit BoulderColorado.gov and search Elevate Boulder Stories.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers, including me, Rossana Longo-Better, who believe that listening deeply helps build stronger, more compassionate communities.

English translation of this conversation is below.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Bienvenidas y bienvenidos a Elevate Boulder Podcast, una serie que amplifica las voces de las personas que participaron en el programa Elevate Boulder.

Este programa piloto de ingresos garantizados fue lanzado en 2023 y financiado con tres millones de dólares del American Rescue Plan. Seleccionó a doscientas personas de bajos recursos en Boulder, quienes recibieron quinientos dólares mensuales durante dos años, sin restricciones, confiando en que cada familia sabría cómo usar ese apoyo según sus propias necesidades.

Los pagos finales del programa están programados para el 31 de diciembre de 2025.
Las encuestas y grupos focales muestran que las y los participantes reportaron menos estrés para cubrir comida, vivienda y servicios, además de mejoras en su salud mental, estabilidad y oportunidades de vida.

Hoy escuchamos directamente a uno de esos participantes.
Esta es la historia de Rogelio.

ROGELIO:

Mi nombre es Rogelio y llegué aquí en el 93. Aquí nacieron mis hijos. Tengo cuatro hijos, tres hombres y una mujer. Gracias a Dios, mis hijos ya están graduados de la universidad. Son sacrificios que hemos hecho mi esposa y yo.

Tengo como treinta y dos años sin regresar a ver a mi gente, a mi familia.

ROSSANA LONGO:

La distancia de su familia de origen ha sido uno de los desafíos más grandes de su vida.

ROGELIO:

Lo más difícil ha sido estar separado de mi familia, de mis papás, de mis hermanos, y que mis hijos no hayan convivido con sus abuelitos.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Rogelio creció en el campo. Su papá era campesino y las oportunidades eran limitadas.

ROGELIO:

Mi familia es del campo. Mi papá era campesino. No había muchas oportunidades y por eso decidí venirme.

Al principio pensé quedarme solo un tiempo, pero luego mis hijos nacieron aquí. Vi que aquí la educación era mejor y que había más oportunidades en las escuelas.

Me empecé a involucrar como voluntario, a conocer las escuelas, a los maestros. Y me di cuenta de que aquí mis hijos podían salir adelante, tener una profesión.

Y sí, gracias a Dios, hoy son profesionales.

ROSSANA LONGO:

En medio de ese camino largo y lleno de sacrificios, el programa Elevate Boulder se volvió un apoyo clave. Le pregunté a Rogelio cómo este ingreso garantizado cambió su vida.

ROGELIO:

Este apoyo me ayudó muchísimo con los estudios de mis hijos. Llegué a tener dos en la universidad al mismo tiempo.

Aunque tenían becas, necesitaban ayuda para la renta, la comida, la ropa. Y aquí en Boulder la vivienda es muy cara. Ellos tenían que rentar donde estudiaban.

Además, ir a verlos, la gasolina, todo eso. Este apoyo fue un gran alivio. Ahí fue donde más lo utilicé.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Rogelio habla con orgullo de sus hijos y de lo que han logrado.

ROGELIO:

Mi hija se gradúa en mayo. Estudió algo relacionado con deportes.

Mi hijo se graduó antes, pero decidió seguir su maestría. Ahora está en Filadelfia. Tiene beca, pero en los meses de verano no recibe apoyo.

Esta ayuda me sirvió para ayudarlo en ese tiempo. Durante el verano él trabajó documentando a familias migrantes afectadas por deportaciones, grabando historias de padres y madres separados de sus hijos.

Era un trabajo muy duro y no era pagado. Yo lo ayudaba como podía. Este apoyo de Elevate Boulder cayó del cielo.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Le pedí a Rogelio que compartiera un mensaje para otras familias que podrían beneficiarse de un programa similar.

ROGELIO:

Yo les diría que aprovechen este tipo de apoyo.

Ganar dinero está bien, pero sin estudios las oportunidades no son las mismas en el futuro.

Recuerdo a mi abuelito. Él siempre decía que había que darle estudio a los hijos porque eso es el futuro. Un hijo estudiado está preparado para la vida. Eso se me quedó grabado.

ROSSANA LONGO:

También hablamos de la importancia de compartir estas oportunidades en el idioma de la comunidad.

ROGELIO:

Porque vivir en Boulder es muy caro. La renta, la comida, el transporte. Cualquier apoyo ayuda.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Antes de despedirnos, le pedí a Rogelio un mensaje final para su familia y para quienes hicieron posible este programa.

ROGELIO:

Mis hijos son mi orgullo. Mi esposa es un gran apoyo. Sin ella no sería quien soy.

Somos una familia muy unida. Ver a mis hijos cumplir sus sueños me llena de orgullo.

Gracias por todo el apoyo que nos han dado.

OUTRO

ROSSANA LONGO:

Las historias que escuchamos a través de Elevate Boulder Podcast revelan un hilo común:
cuando las personas tienen estabilidad, pueden planificar;
cuando pueden planificar, pueden respirar;
y cuando pueden respirar, pueden construir un futuro mejor.

Mientras este programa piloto llega a su fin, la Ciudad de Boulder y sus socios comunitarios evalúan los próximos pasos con la esperanza de continuar o ampliar este tipo de apoyo.

Rogelio, gracias por compartir tu historia.
Y gracias a ustedes por escuchar.

Para conocer más historias contadas a través de audio, fotografía, video y texto, visiten BoulderColorado.gov y busquen Elevate Boulder Stories.

Estas historias fueron creadas por un equipo de narradores locales, incluida yo, Rossana Longo, quienes creemos que escuchar con atención es la base de comunidades más fuertes y compasivas.

English Translation

ROSSANA LONGO:

Welcome to Elevate Boulder Podcast, a series that amplifies the voices of people who participated in the Elevate Boulder program.

This guaranteed income pilot launched in 2023 and was funded with three million dollars from the American Rescue Plan. Two hundred low-income residents in Boulder were selected to receive five hundred dollars a month for two years, with no restrictions, trusting families to decide how best to use that support.

Final payments are scheduled for December 31, 2025.
Surveys and focus groups show that participants reported less stress covering food, housing, and utilities, along with improvements in mental health, stability, and life opportunities.

Today, we hear directly from one of those participants. This is Rogelio’s story.

ROGELIO:

My name is Rogelio. I arrived here in 1993. This is where my children were born. I have four children, three sons and one daughter. Thank God, my children have now graduated from college. These are sacrifices my wife and I made.

I have not returned to see my family for about thirty-two years.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Distance from his family of origin has been one of the hardest challenges of his life.

ROGELIO:

The hardest thing has been being separated from my family, from my parents, my brothers, and that my children never got to spend time with their grandparents.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Rogelio grew up in the countryside. His father was a farmworker, and opportunities were limited.

ROGELIO:

My family is from the countryside. My father was a farmworker. There weren’t many opportunities, and that’s why I decided to come.

At first, I thought I would stay only for a short time, but then my children were born here. I saw that education here was better and that there were more opportunities in schools.

I started volunteering, getting involved in schools, meeting teachers. I realized my children had a chance here, a chance to move forward and have a profession.

And yes, thank God, today they are professionals.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Along that long and demanding journey, the Elevate Boulder program became a critical source of support. I asked Rogelio how guaranteed income changed his life.

ROGELIO:

This support helped me tremendously with my children’s education. At one point, I had two kids in college at the same time.

Even with scholarships, they still needed help with rent, food, and clothing. And here in Boulder, housing is very expensive.

They had to rent where they were studying. On top of that, traveling to see them, gas, all of it added up. This support was a huge relief. That’s where I focused it the most.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Rogelio speaks with pride about his children and what they have achieved.

ROGELIO:

My daughter graduates in May. She studied something related to sports.

My son graduated earlier but decided to pursue a master’s degree. He is now in Philadelphia. He has a scholarship, but during the summer months he receives no funding.

This support helped me support him during that time. Over the summer, he worked documenting migrant families affected by deportation, recording stories of parents being separated from their children.

It was difficult work and unpaid. I helped him however I could. This Elevate Boulder support truly came from the sky.

ROSSANA LONGO:

I asked Rogelio what message he would share with other families who might benefit from a similar program.

ROGELIO:

I would tell them to take advantage of this kind of support.

Earning money is important, but without education, opportunities are not the same in the future.

I remember my grandfather. He always said you must give your children an education because that is the future. An educated child is prepared for life. That stayed with me.

ROSSANA LONGO:

We also talked about why sharing these opportunities in people’s own language matters.

ROGELIO:

Because living in Boulder is very expensive. Rent, food, transportation. Any support helps.

ROSSANA LONGO:

Before we wrapped up, I asked Rogelio for a final message for his family and for those who made this program possible.

ROGELIO:

My children are my pride. My wife is a huge support. Without her, I wouldn’t be who I am.

We are a very close family. Seeing my children achieve their dreams fills me with pride.

Thank you for all the support you’ve given us.

ROSSANA LONGO

The stories we hear through Elevate Boulder Podcast share a common thread: when people have stability, they can plan when they can plan, they can breathe; and when they can breathe, they can build a better future.

As the pilot program comes to an end, the City of Boulder and its community partners are evaluating next steps, with the hope of continuing or expanding this type of support.

Rogelio, thank you for sharing your story.
And thank you for listening.

To explore more stories told through audio, photography, video, and text, visit BoulderColorado.gov and search Elevate Boulder Stories.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers, including me, Rossana Longo, who believe that listening deeply is the foundation of stronger, more compassionate communities.

English translation of this conversation is below.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Bienvenidas y bienvenidos a Elevate Boulder Historias en Audio, una serie de podcasts que amplifica las voces de quienes participaron en el programa Elevate Boulder. Esta iniciativa piloto, lanzada en 2023, proporcionó asistencia en efectivo a personas de bajos ingresos. Las y los participantes recibieron 500 dólares al mes sin restricciones, con la libertad de tomar decisiones que promovieran estabilidad, dignidad y tranquilidad.

Financiado por el American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder ofreció a muchas personas un respiro: espacio para manejar sus finanzas, atender su salud mental y comenzar a ahorrar para el futuro. El programa también acompañó a cada participante según sus propias necesidades.

En este episodio escuchamos a Marta, mexicana, madre, y residente de Boulder desde hace ocho años. A través del apoyo de Elevate Boulder, Marta pudo enfrentar el alto costo de vida, reducir su estrés financiero y reencontrar estabilidad para ella y su familia.

Su historia muestra cómo un poco de seguridad económica puede restaurar la tranquilidad, fortalecer los lazos familiares y generar un sentido profundo de pertenencia.
Escuchemos a Marta.

MARTA:

“Mi nombre es Marta. Tengo ocho años viviendo aquí en Boulder. Me parece una ciudad perfecta para vivir porque tienes todos los servicios, todas las comodidades, y aun así es una ciudad chiquita donde te puedes transportar rápido. Además, me encanta tener la montaña tan cerca. Yo vivo muy feliz aquí.”

“Soy mexicana, de Monterrey, una ciudad al norte del país. También estamos rodeados de montañas, pero Monterrey es una ciudad muy grande, que creció rápido y sin tanto orden… muy diferente a Boulder, donde todo está bien planeado.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Como muchas familias inmigrantes, el mayor desafío para Marta fue comenzar de nuevo en otro país.

MARTA:

“El desafío de cambiarnos de país fue una decisión difícil. Es muy duro dejar tu país, tu familia… pero a veces hay que ver por un mejor futuro. Yo estoy acostumbrada a seguir reglas y aquí todo es más estructurado, y eso me gusta.”

“Lo más difícil ha sido la situación económica. Cuando llegamos, hace ocho años, todo era más accesible. Pero ahora todo está más caro. La pandemia nos afectó muchísimo: el ingreso bajó, pero la renta, la comida, los servicios… todo había que pagarlo igual, con menos dinero. Desde entonces no hemos podido estabilizarnos bien.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Entre la incertidumbre y el aumento del costo de vida, Elevate Boulder llegó como un alivio inesperado. Le pregunté a Marta cómo este apoyo cambió su día a día.

MARTA:

“Me ha dado mucha tranquilidad. Con el dinero que recibimos puedo pagar mi carro, los seguros… y hasta ahorrar un poquito cada mes. Antes me preocupaba cómo iba a hacer esos pagos; ahora sé que están cubiertos.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Marta también compartió cómo llegó a enterarse del programa.

MARTA:

“En la pandemia tuvimos problemas para pagar la renta del lote donde vivimos. Busqué ayuda en EFAA y ellos me refirieron con Elevate Boulder. Después recibí un correo donde decían que podíamos aplicar para esta ayuda. Aplicamos y tuvimos mucha suerte.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Quise saber qué mensaje les daría a otras personas que quizá no conocen los recursos disponibles.

MARTA:

“Yo les diría que no tengan miedo de preguntar. A veces no nos enteramos de la ayuda que existe por pena o por miedo. Pero hay muchas opciones. ¿Qué es lo peor que puede pasar? Que te digan que no. Pero ya pediste.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Sus palabras reflejan algo muy profundo de nuestra cultura.

ROSSANA LONGO:
Le pregunté también qué le gusta hacer en su tiempo libre, quién es Marta fuera de las preocupaciones del día a día.

MARTA:

“Soy chef de profesión, y me encanta cocinar. Me relaja, me inspira. Siempre cocino con música—depende del platillo. Si voy a preparar comida italiana, pongo música italiana. Busco recetas, veo qué puedo usar para no desperdiciar, pienso en la música… y a cocinar. Me encanta ser anfitriona, todo lo que es servicio y comida.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Las historias que escuchamos a través de Elevate Boulder revelan un hilo común:
cuando las personas tienen estabilidad, pueden planificar. Cuando pueden planificar, pueden respirar. Y cuando pueden respirar, pueden construir un futuro.

A medida que el programa piloto llega a su fin, la Ciudad de Boulder y sus aliados comunitarios evalúan opciones para continuar o ampliar este tipo de apoyo, con la esperanza de que más familias puedan tener la misma oportunidad.

Gracias, Marta, por compartir tu historia con tanta honestidad.
Y gracias a ustedes por escuchar.

Para más información y para explorar más historias contadas a través de monólogos, fotografías, videos, autobiografías y podcasts, visiten BoulderColorado.gov y busquen Elevate Boulder Stories.

Estas historias fueron creadas por un equipo de narradores locales, incluida yo, Rossana Longo, quienes creemos que cuando nos escuchamos unos a otros, construimos comunidades más fuertes y compasivas.

English Translation

ROSSANA LONGO:
Welcome to Elevate Boulder Audio Stories, a podcast series that amplifies the voices of individuals who participated in the Elevate Boulder program. This pilot initiative, launched in 2023, provided direct cash assistance to low-income residents. Participants received $500 a month with no strings attached—the freedom to make personal choices that build stability, dignity, and peace of mind.

Funded by the American Rescue Plan, Elevate Boulder offered many people essential breathing room: the ability to manage their finances, care for their mental health, and begin saving for the future. The program also met each participant where they were, supporting their unique needs and circumstances.

In this episode, we hear from Marta, originally from Monterrey, Mexico, and a Boulder resident for the past eight years. Through resilience, hard work, and the support of the Elevate Boulder program, Marta found stability during a time of financial strain and uncertainty. Her story shows how economic stability creates space to breathe, regroup, and rebuild.

Let’s listen to Marta.

MARTA:

“My name is Marta. I’ve been living in Boulder for eight years. I think it’s a perfect city to live in because it has all the services, all the conveniences, yet it’s still a small city. It’s very easy to get around… and the nature everywhere—I love it. I’m very happy here.”

“I’m Mexican, from Monterrey, a city in the northeast of the country. We’re also surrounded by mountains, but Monterrey is a very large city that grew quickly and without much planning. Boulder is much more organized.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Like many families who migrate to the United States, the biggest challenge for Marta was starting over far from home.

MARTA:

“Moving countries was a difficult decision. It’s very hard to leave your home, your family… but sometimes you have to look for a better future. For me the adjustment wasn’t as hard because I like following rules, and things here are more structured. I like that.”

“What has been hardest is the economic situation. When we arrived, everything was more accessible. But now everything is more expensive. The pandemic affected us a lot—our income dropped, but rent, food, and utilities still had to be paid. Since then, we haven’t really been able to stabilize.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Amid that instability, Marta found some relief through the Elevate Boulder program. I asked her how this support changed her daily life.

MARTA:

“It has given me so much peace of mind. With the money we receive, I can pay my car, the insurance… and even save a little each month. Before, I worried constantly about how I was going to cover those bills. Now I know they’re taken care of.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Marta also shared how she learned about the program.

MARTA:

“During the pandemic we were having trouble paying the rent on the lot where we live. I looked for help at EFAA, and they referred me to Elevate Boulder. Later I received an email saying we could apply for assistance. We applied… and we were very lucky.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
I asked Marta what she would tell others who might benefit from programs like this.

MARTA

“I would tell them not to be afraid to ask. There is so much help out there, but sometimes we don’t find it because we’re afraid or embarrassed. What’s the worst that can happen? They say no. But at least you asked. EFAA and the city have many programs, but you have to ask.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Her words reminded me of something many of our grandmothers used to say:
“Mijita, ask if you need something. If they don’t give it to you, then they don’t… but at least you asked.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
Before we ended our conversation, I asked Marta what she enjoys doing in her free time—beyond the daily responsibilities.

MARTA:

“I’m a chef by profession, and I love cooking. It inspires me, it relaxes me. I always cook with music—it depends on what I’m making. If I’m cooking Italian food, I put on Italian music. I look up recipes, think about what ingredients I can use so nothing goes to waste… I think about the music, and then I cook. I love hosting people. Everything related to service and food… I just love it.”

ROSSANA LONGO:
The stories we hear through Elevate Boulder reveal a shared truth: when people have stability, they can plan; when they can plan, they can breathe; and when they can breathe, they can build a future.

As the pilot program comes to an end, the City of Boulder and its community partners continue evaluating how to support more families with similar opportunities.

Thank you, Marta, for opening your heart and sharing your story.
And thank you for listening.

To learn more and explore additional stories—told through monologues, photos, videos, autobiographies, and podcasts—visit BoulderColorado.gov and search for Elevate Boulder Stories.

These stories were created by a team of local storytellers, including me, Rossana Longo Better, who believe that when we listen to one another, we build stronger and more compassionate communities.