Some time in the middle of March, all of our world’s got shook by COVID-19. Our local businesses were told to shut down, and our community was told to stay inside. Lauren Mackenzie sent out an email to plea for a brainstorm session with other business owners on how some passionate Colorado Springs lovers could step up and help our community during this time. This was where Support the Springs began. Support the Springs is 100% volunteer-manned. All work provided has been fueled by heart-not-profit. The team has fluctuated with partnerships, collaborations, volunteers, and more and we couldn’t be more grateful for all of those who have stepped up, supported, or just cheered us on in this initiative. Meet the driving crew behind Support the Springs!
Leah Valentine
Independent Project Consultant.
Avid relationship builder, problem solver, and organizer. All around hugger-type and supporter of dreams. Community-dedicated and servant-hearted. I have supported local organizations both large and small, providing project coordination and business administration services. I volunteered for this campaign because I believe our Colorado Springs’ community is second to none and an essential part of what has sparked its progression over the past several years. Unique and plentiful storefronts, restaurants, and other independently-owned services support a healthy culture for our town and I’m thankful to those who followed their passion and continually work hard to maintain a thriving business.
Katy Houston-Hartshorn
Marketing Specialist, Downtown Partnership of Colorado Springs, Independent Public Relations & Marketing Consultant
I am passionate about our city and the people that make it thrive. As the Marketing Specialist for the Downtown Partnership, I share the stories of what makes our city center unique. From maker markets and mom-and-pop shops to our robust creative district and food/craft beer & cocktail scene, Downtown Colorado Springs is an eclectic and growing urban district. I thrive in connecting people and watching relationships grow in a spirit of collaboration and community that has made Colorado Springs the best “small big city” in the country.
Neon Pig Creative
Graphic Design Agency: Brand, print, and web design
Neon Pig Creative is a team of six passionate and dedicated Colorado Springs locals who create strong brands and effective communication strategies. The pigs work with businesses and organizations of all sizes and in all mediums of communication. They specialize in branding, print design, and web design and development. They are ardent designers, artists, and communicators—striving to create amazing brands that are beacons (bacons?) of light in the night sky.
Lauren Ripko
Owner + Juggler of Plates, Studio Q Events Event Design & Production Studio
Event designer + planner + community builder + lover of creating connections + making memories
Lauren McKenzie
Owner of REN Creativ Branding + Photography Studio
With a passion for visual storytelling, Lauren’s work goes far beyond just creating logos — she is one of many local entrepreneurs who is designing our city’s bright future. Lauren is passionate about helping small businesses navigate the complexities of marketing in the digital age, she is proud to see the Support the Springs movement connect individuals to small businesses across Colorado Springs.
Meagan Thomas
Owner+ Founder, Springs Native & Single in the Springs
Social Media Maven, Local Food Writer and Expert, Marketing Consultant, Podcast Host, Event Planner, and Happy Hour Endorser. I have my hand in a little bit of everything. If it’s about promoting a local business or organization, I’m on it. I love being a part of the Colorado Springs community, telling people about the amazing places we have, and helping to cultivate a fun environment to help others understand how lucky we are to be in COS. I’m all things Springs, all the time, and am thrilled that I get to lend my voice to help promote Support the Springs and the amazing local businesses we have.