Lovingly called America’s favorite neighbor, Fred Rogers used to say, “look for the helpers.” While simple in meaning, the impact behind his words is profound. For me, Reg and Lakewood Connects are among the trusted helpers in our community, assisting individuals, children and families in ways that are truly transformational. Thank you for all you do!
Lesley Dahlkemper, Jefferson County Commissioner
It is with great enthusiasm that I endorse Reg Cox for his invaluable partnership with Foothills Elementary School. His unwavering commitment to supporting our students, staff and families has significantly enhanced our school’s ability to foster a nurturing and enriching educational environment.
Through our ongoing partnership (Whiz Kids, Foothills Hub, donations) Reg and Lakewood Connects have demonstrated a genuine dedication to our mission of helping every child succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Their collaborative spirit has positively impacted not only the students but also the broader school community. This partnership enables Whiz Kids, Foothills Foodies and provides donations and basic needs support for members of the Foothills community.
We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with Lakewood Connects and Reg Cox and look forward to continuing our work together.
Shannon Schneider, Principal of Foothills Elementary
Throughout my time in public service, whenever faced with a challenging issue or a community need, my first call is always to Reg and Lakewood Connects. Their mission has grown exponentially, and through their strong partnerships, they have empowered countless individuals and organizations in our community to thrive. They have set a shining example of success for others to follow, fostering collaboration that enriches both residents and institutions. Reg and Lakewood Connects are indispensable in making our community a better place and inspiring collective action for the greater good.
Adam Paul, former Lakewood Mayor
Lakewood Connects was an invaluable partner to me as a school building leader and to our staff. They came to our school with open hands and open hearts and selflessly met the emotional and tangible needs of our team. They understand the transformative power of relationships in serving those who serve our children.
Jim McKenney, Jeffco Public Schools Principal
Lakewood Connects has been a vital partner to our church and our engagement in the community. Reg has inspired and influenced a number of connections to a variety of nonprofits, schools, and government leaders. Through partnership with Reg, we have increased the opportunity to grow our church ministry and actively respond to needs in our neighborhood. Reg has also been a huge support and encouragement to me personally as he cheers me on in ministry. His personal experience, relational networks, and his contagious visionary enthusiasm make him a valuable resource for our church. Thank you Reg and Lakewood Connects
Nick von Stein, Pastor of Grace Covenant Church
I’m thankful for Lakewood Connects because I believe in a Lakewood that’s a great place for all kids to grow up from Colfax to Green Mountain. There are significant needs and challenges facing our Lakewood kids, for example almost 1/4 are on free and reduced lunch and kids makeup the largest community served by the Action Center. Lakewood Connects helps bridge the gap, so that all kids can get a fair shot in Lakewood.
Dana Gutwein, Lakewood City Councilor
I am thankful for Lakewood Connects because without them we would have never been blessed to meet Reg. His volunteer work through the community is how I got to meet him through a program called Whiz Kids, for Foothills Elementary School, and because of this they have helped my child thrive. I can’t thank Lakewood Connects enough for him!
Stephanie Ingraham, Mom of Whiz Kid student
The Lakewood Connects organization, led by Reg Cox, made it possible for our school (Foothills Elementary) to create partnerships with community businesses, faith-based coalitions, realtors, government officials, radio stations, and other service organizations to establish a shared vision for improving our schools’ presence, service and functionality within the community. Rising crime rates and unkept building sites and playgrounds were eye sores and became targets for crime in the community. Through this partnership, we were able to collaboratively work with GOCO (Great Outdoors Colorado Organization) to design, raise money, and secure grants for the construction of a half-million dollar field and playground reconstruction—providing needed resources to school children and community members alike. Additionally, this project brought community members together around a purpose and created a renewed sense of togetherness. As a result, Foothills Elementary became a hub in the community – fostering tutoring opportunities for disadvantaged students, and providing for community needs through various programs and social events, as well as sustaining an exceptional education opportunity for all children. There is no monetary value that I can place on a partnership of this type – I am just thankful that were fortunate enough to be a part of such a positive movement.
Susan Borzych, Principal in Jeffco Public Schools
I’m thankful for Lakewood Connects because of the speedy and direct connections to resources and services provided to families that have needs, right within their community.
Bernadette Marquez, Family Engagement Liaison at Foothills Elementary
Lakewood Connects is a key component in our mission to love and serve the people of the Green Mountain community and the City of Lakewood. Reg Cox is the conduit to collaborative relationships between the faith community, city leadership, non-profits, county agencies and Jeffco Schools. Lakewood Connects opened the door for Faith Mountain to tutor students, invest in school improvement projects, feed the hungry, bless hundreds of low income families at Christmas and make a real difference in the real lives of our real neighbors. We are a stronger and more vibrant community because of the hard work done by Lakewood Connects. We’re better together. Lakewood Connects keeps us together.