HISTORY & IMPACT
PorchLight, A Family Justice Center began with a vision for a simpler, safer way for victims, survivors, and their children to access support.
In 2016, Founder and Executive Director Candace Cooledge worked with the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office to lead the effort to create a Family Justice Center serving Jefferson and Gilpin counties. Over several years of planning and community collaboration, that vision grew into PorchLight, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit built with the support of local government, service providers, advocates, law enforcement, prosecutors, volunteers, and partner agencies.
Before PorchLight opened, individuals impacted by violence often had to navigate multiple offices, websites, appointments, and systems during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Barriers such as transportation, childcare, fear, financial instability, and the need to retell traumatic experiences could make it harder for victims to seek support.
PorchLight opened its doors in February 2021 to change that experience.
Today, PorchLight brings together more than 20 onsite partner agencies and a broader network of community partners to provide coordinated services in one safe, welcoming location. Guests can access Navigation, advocacy, legal support, law enforcement, behavioral health services, medical and forensic support, onsite childcare, basic needs assistance, and connections to community resources at no cost.
Since opening, PorchLight has recorded more than 20,000 visits, provided thousands of Navigations, and supported thousands of childcare visits. Each number represents a person, family, or child taking a step toward safety, stability, healing, and hope.
One Guest shared, “I’ve never felt so seen, heard, and respected.” That is the heart of PorchLight’s work: bringing people together, reducing barriers, and creating a positive pathway forward for victims, survivors, children, and families.
Our mission is to bring together essential services for victims, survivors and their children to create a positive pathway forward, and to foster health and public safety.
The Fine Print
PorchLight is an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate based on age, ethnicity, ancestry, gender, national origin, disability, race, size, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or any other status prohibited by applicable law.
No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. All other categories exclude text messaging originator opt-in data and consent; this information will not be shared with any third parties.
PorchLight is a registered 501(C)3 non-profit in Colorado, Tax ID #83-2789396
Donations to our organization are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. As a 501(c)( 3) nonprofit, your contributions can be claimed on your income tax return if you itemize deductions. Please consult with your tax advisor for specific guidance.
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