A thriving guide of opportunities made by Rural Coloradans, for Rural Coloradans.
How MidTransitions came to be…
It all began with a “what if…”
What if our rural neighbors can build permanency here instead of being pushed out of the places they love? What if those who work in our beautiful towns could actually enjoy them without being burnt out? And what if those with lived experience can thrive with help from peer coaches to reach their personal goals to where we could create more connected and vibrant rural communities where everyone has a seat at the table? You may have thought the same so join us…
We are the change we’ve been seeking.
At MidTransitions, we recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals in rural areas of Colorado, especially for those with lived experience. We are a non-profit visionary initiative aimed at narrowing the disparity between mere survival and genuine thriving among individuals residing in rural Colorado communities. Our work is focused on providing holistic self-sustainability coaching, community-building initiatives tailored to the specific needs of rural residents, and a social enterprise coming in 2025 to help our rural neighbors generate additional income.
"Lived experience" refers to the personal, first-hand knowledge and understanding that individuals have gained through their own direct encounters and interactions with various life challenges, traumas, and circumstances. It consists of individuals who have navigated through difficult situations themselves, rather than merely observing or learning about them second-hand. For example, someone with lived experience of homelessness has personally navigated the complexities of finding shelter and support services, while another individual with lived experience of addiction has grappled with overcoming substance abuse and rebuilding their life. These firsthand experiences shape individuals' perspectives, resilience, and understanding of the challenges they face, making them uniquely qualified to relate to and support others going through similar circumstances.
In the context of MidTransitions, acknowledging and understanding lived experience is crucial for providing effective support and guidance to individuals who may be facing similar challenges in rural Colorado. By integrating peer trauma-informed certified coaches into our team, we ensure that clients receive authentic guidance from individuals who truly understand their experiences. Additionally, we proudly identify as a women-led and LGBTQIA+ member-led organization, with a commitment to fostering inclusivity and empowerment for all individuals.
Meet our Growing Team….
-
Chelsea Meece
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
After 15+ years in homeless initiatives/victim services and 10+ years of being a Holistic Health Coach, there is a clear need to fill for our rural neighbors who were exiting systems of care yet still wanted to grow. MidTransitions vision to help those of us with lived experience aligns perfectly with how I want to serve the world and those around this beautiful state!
-
Carmen Ilisoi
OUTREACH/SOCIAL ENTERPRISE DIRECTOR
Along side my own lived experience, my formalized background stems from serving in youth homeless initiatives throughout rural Colorado to help elevate youth voice and choice. With many years of experience advocating or others, facilitating trainings/workshops, and ensuring that all voices are heard at the table, I’m excited that MidTransitions will help serve those who age out of the youth continuum of care and give them a place to go for further growth!
-
Chelsey Youell
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
Coming Soon.
Want to help us guide the mission of MidTransitions in your area?
We are currently accepting NEW Board Members onto the team!
Specifically, we are looking for individuals in various regions of Rural Colorado with varied lived experience and interests in personal growth and organizational development. If you are interested in learning more or joining our Board in the Fall of 2024, email chelsea@midtransitions.com for more information. (Please include the county in which you reside)
