June 2026 Newsletter | Vol. 6 | | |
THE BELLOS – June Edition!
Welcome to the June edition of THE BELLOS, your trusted e-newsletter connecting Montbello neighbors, businesses, and organizations. In this edition, we shine a spotlight on amazing fathers, as well as Montbello students and educators. Learn tips on how to help your garden thrive in summer heat, and get information on the Montbello Job Fair and upcoming events to put on your calendar. Know someone who would like to get THE BELLOS? Send them this link to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter.
Be sure to check out the recently published Summer 2026 edition of the MUSE for more in-depth articles about our community, resources and event information. As always, we welcome your story ideas and event submissions for future editions of THE BELLOS or the MUSE. Have something to share? Reply to this email.
| | Celebrating the Men Who Help Shape Our Lives | | |
Fathers play a vital role in shaping strong families and healthy communities, especially in underserved neighborhoods where positive role models can make a lasting difference. Their guidance, support, and love help children build confidence, resilience, and hope for the future.
During the 19th annual Reach 4 Peace Picnic on Father’s Day, community members gathered to celebrate outstanding fathers and recognize the 2026 Father of the Year Award winners. This year’s honorees, James Harris and Darnell Hunter, exemplify dedication, compassion, and commitment to their families.
James Harris was recognized for his unwavering support of his children and his family. He works hard to provide for his family while ensuring each child feels loved, valued, and special.
Darnell Hunter was honored for his devotion to his daughter and his role as a caring bonus dad. His love, kindness, patience and respect ensure that each of his children feel seen, heard and appreciated.
The Reach 4 Peace Picnic, hosted by the Struggle of Love Foundation, also featured free food, activities, health screenings, and community resources.
| | Tip of the Month: Helping Your Garden Thrive During the Heat of Summer | |
Hot and dry conditions can be challenging for gardeners, but a few simple steps can help plants stay healthy and productive.
- Water deeply in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This reduces evaporation and allows roots to absorb more moisture.
- Add mulch around plants to help the soil retain water and stay cooler throughout the day.
- Provide shade (shade cloth, umbrellas, or other temporary covering) during the hottest part of the day to protect newly planted or sensitive plants.
- Add compost to improve soil quality and help it hold moisture longer.
Container gardens may need extra attention because pots dry out faster than garden beds. Check soil moisture daily and water when needed. Remove weeds regularly since they compete with vegetables and flowers for water and nutrients.
Interested in learning more? Check out the free gardening workshops provided by Children’s Farms in Action.
Note: Denver Water is operating under Stage 1 drought conditions. To learn more about watering restrictions, visit Rules for Outdoor Water Use | Denver Water.
| | FreshLo Update: Empowering Local Entrepreneurs at the Business Accelerator Vendor Spaces | | |
The Montbello Business Accelerator's Business Vendor Spaces offer a premier platform for local entrepreneurs and start-ups to launch and scale their retail ventures. Designed as a cornerstone of the Montbello Organizing Committee’s "building community wealth" philosophy, these dedicated spaces provide more than just a physical storefront; they offer a supportive ecosystem for growth.
Participating vendors gain access to a comprehensive business development hub, including technical assistance, mentorship, networking, and shared amenities such as Wi-Fi and meeting rooms. Vendor spaces are available for $599/month on a flexible, month-to-month commitment, making them an ideal launchpad for new retail businesses.
To apply, entrepreneurs can visit montbellobusinessaccelerator.proximity.app. After creating an account, you can explore membership tiers, select your preferred option, and initiate the activation process. Join the Accelerator today to professionalize your business, tap into local resources, and turn your entrepreneurial dream into a lasting community success.
| | Job of the Month: Connect with Employers at the Montbello Job Fair | | |
Are you looking for a new job, a career change, or a chance to connect with local employers? The Montbello Organizing Committee (MOC) invites community members to attend its upcoming Montbello Job Fair on June 29 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 12444 Albrook Drive, Suite 170, Denver, CO 80239.
This free event is designed to connect job seekers with employers from a variety of industries, including construction, retail, home health, housekeeping, sales, and customer service. Whether you are entering the workforce, seeking a better opportunity, or exploring a new career path, the Job Fair will offer valuable networking opportunities and direct access to hiring representatives.
Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their resumes and dress professionally. Free resume preparation services will be available on-site.
Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your career and connect with employers who are looking for talented and motivated workers. If you are an employer or vendor who would like to attend, please contact Michael Crossland at Michael.Crossland@montbelloorganizing.org.
Montbello Talent is dedicated to connecting local job seekers with living wage jobs where they can thrive. Whether you're seeking your first job, looking to shift careers, or aiming to climb higher in your current path, Montbello Talent offers personalized support and resources. Each month in THE BELLOS, we will highlight a job meant to help strengthen our community's economic fabric. If you are a job seeker, or employer, please reach out to Michael.Crossland@montbelloorganizing.org.
| | The Many Faces of MOC: Meet Kwon Atlas | | |
As MOC’s Director of Economic Development, Kwon leads initiatives that provide employment and ownership opportunities for Montbello residents, combat gentrification, and create pathways to sustain generational wealth. He also works closely with entrepreneurs interested in opening a business or testing a retail concept at the Montbello Business Accelerator.
Prior to joining MOC, Kwon worked at all three levels of government. He served as a legislative aide for State Senator James Coleman and as a community liaison for US Senator Michael Bennet. He also served as Senior Advisor on Community-Based Initiatives and Special Projects in the Office of the Mayor of Denver, Michael B. Hancock.
Kwon is the board president for Urban League of Metro Denver and is involved with several community organizations. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his son, family, and weight lifting.
| | Shining A Light on Academic Achievements in Montbello | | |
Montbello continues to shine through the outstanding achievements of its students and educators. Congratulations to Keahsha Hodge, a freshman at Montbello High School, who earned Senator Coleman's Black Student Excellence Award after maintaining straight As throughout her first year and achieving an impressive 4.6 GPA. Along with the honor, she received a $200 scholarship. Keahsha plans to graduate early and pursue careers in real estate and diagnostic medical sonography. She is also training to be a nail technician and is welcoming new clients at One of a Kind Nailz.
Giselle Garcia-Gonzalez, a math teacher at DSST: Elevate, recently received the 2026 DSST Distinguished Alumni Torch Bearer Award. A 2017 graduate of DSST: Montview, Garcia-Gonzalez inspires students by providing the same encouragement that shaped her own success. She shared that as a student she was shaped by teachers who saw her, challenged her, and refused to let her settle. Today, she is that teacher. A first-generation college graduate and daughter of immigrants, Garcia-Gonzalez exemplifies the power of education, perseverance, and giving back. Read more in DSST Public Schools’ blog.
| | Event Recap: A Successful Day on the Links at MOC’s 2nd Annual Golf Tournament | | |
The Montbello Organizing Committee's 2nd Annual Golf Tournament was a sold-out success, bringing together sponsors, 144 golfers, volunteers, and community supporters for an incredible day at Green Valley Ranch Golf Club.
The event showcased the power of community, partnership, and purpose as participants enjoyed friendly competition, networking opportunities, and fellowship on the course. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the commitment of our volunteers, and the hospitality of GRV Golf Club staff, the tournament raised funds to support programs that strengthen and uplift the Montbello community.
| | Featured Event: 20th Annual Heal The Hood | | |
Saturday, June 27, 2026, Noon to 4 pm
Montbello High School Parking Lot, 5000 Crown Blvd., Denver, CO 80239
| Join Families Against Violent Acts (FAVA) for the 20th annual Heal The Hood Community Resource Fair. Everyone is welcome at this fun community event, which features free food, entertainment, giveaways, prizes, and resources for all ages. | | Community Connections: Events, Classes & Happenings* | |
For Montbello: Summer
Friday, June 26th, 6-9 pm
ELK Education Center: 12680 Albrook Dr., Denver, CO 80239
Join this free community celebration at the ELK Education Center and Montbello Open Space Park for performances by local artists, a market of local vendors, and free food for the first 75 guests.
Meet and Greet: Senator Michael Bennet and Congressman Joe Neguse
Saturday, June 27th, 9:30-10:15 am
Meet current US Senator and gubernatorial candidate Michael Bennet and Congressman Joe Neguse in person during their North Denver campaign stop. This is a great opportunity to share your questions and concerns about issues that matter most to your community.
Register online to receive information about the location.
Election Day
Tuesday, June 30th: ballots must be received by 7 pm
Vote in person at a Voter Service and Polling Center (Montbello Recreation Center and Green Valley Recreation Center) or drop off your ballot at a 24-Hour Drop Off Box (locations near Montbello include Montbello Branch Library, Montbello Recreation Center and Green Valley Recreation Center).
Click here for more information and a full list of locations.
Montbello Mobile Food Pantry
Thursday, July 2nd at 9 am
Montbello Recreation Center: 15555 E. 53rd Ave., Denver, CO 80239
The Mobile Food Pantry distributes food boxes out of the parking lot at Montbello Recreation Center. New clients can streamline their visit by registering ahead of time here.
Soil Health and Composting Workshop
Tuesday, July 14th, 5:30-7:00 pm
Montbello Community Building: 12000 E. 47th Ave., Suite 201, Denver, CO 80239
Join Children’s Farm in Action and CSU to learn the basics of soil health and composting, including how to build healthy soil and turn food scraps into nutrient-rich compost. Learn more and register for this free workshop.
*Unless otherwise noted, events are free. Visit montbellocalendar.org to register and to see additional events happening in the community.
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