Karen Leigh
Karen has been the evening anchor for CBS4 since 2008 and has been involved with Denver Rescue Mission on and off for a decade. She is married with one daughter and feels beyond fortunate to call Colorado home.
Why is it important to you to work alongside the Mission, whether through volunteering or through your work at CBS4?
I believe in what Denver Rescue Mission is doing—where its heart and head are. Serving people the necessities is just the foundation. Once you build trust and relationships with people, you can help guide and encourage them into better days ahead.
You’ve been involved in CBS4’s annual Spread the Warmth campaign to raise awareness and funds for the Mission. Why is it beneficial that we work together to help “spread the warmth” to our neighbors experiencing homelessness?
It takes donations to make real life changes, and that’s where our campaign can help. None of us can get much done alone. We are always better working in community and that’s what CBS4’s Spread the Warmth campaign is all about—opening eyes to a need and encouraging all of us to do something.
How has your connection with the Mission personally impacted you?
I think any time I can learn about someone’s struggles and help someone who needs a hand up, it makes my heart that much softer. For me, listening to people and talking with those in more challenging situations is what I need in order to learn, have empathy and take action.
What would you say to encourage others to get involved with the Mission?
I would encourage others to find a program or event that the Mission offers that speaks to them and then get involved. You can start by serving food, but there are so many ways to help out.
This post is part of March’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month, we’re sharing the story of our peer navigators at the Mission in: A Walk in Their Shoes.
