A pandemic-era experience that turned into a family’s holiday mission
For many, Thanksgiving is spent gathered around the table with family and friends, sharing a hearty meal and settling in for a post-dinner football game. For Aurelia, however, the holiday is dedicated to giving back to Denverites in need.
A CCS Facility Services team member for more than two decades, Aurelia, along with her children, has spent the past three Thanksgivings preparing and distributing homemade Thanksgiving meals to people experiencing homelessness, along with winter essentials like gloves, blankets, and coats. While she also volunteers through her church, this Thanksgiving effort is entirely her own.
“It’s just something I felt called to do,” she says.
The inspiration for this came to Aureliaduring the COVID-19 pandemic, when a neighbor lost his wife, fell into depression, and soon after became homeless. Witnessing both the emotional toll and the lack of compassion he experienced left a lasting impression.
“We often assume people become homeless because of addiction or financial missteps,” Aurelia explains. “But sometimes, life just knocks you down, and everything changes. And when that happens, it’s not our job to judge. Instead, it’s our job to do what we can to help neighbors in need.”
What started as a response to one neighbor’s hardship has since grown into a yearly tradition. This Thanksgiving, Aurelia and her children distributed meals and essential supplies to 50 people experiencing homelessness across Denver.
“It’s about showing kindness,” Aurelia says. “Treating someone with dignity and respect can completely change how they see the world, and themselves.”
This tradition has become so meaningful that Alma has decided to continue it on Christmas Day, with plans to distribute donations with her children in Downtown Denver in the hope of bringing a bit of holiday cheer to those without a home or family to celebrate with.
“Both in her work and outside of it, Aurelia is genuine, generous, and humble,” says Denver Account Manager Erika Martinez. “She doesn’t do this for recognition; she does it out of the goodness of her heart. That’s what makes her so special.”
Through her quiet leadership and unwavering compassion, Aurelia perfectly exemplifies CCS Facility Services’ Service Heart, going above and beyond to extend care and support to those in need during the holiday season and beyond.
