The celebration began inside the new home of Struggle of Love Foundation’s newest gathering space—an expansive 5,000-square-foot garage on the ground floor of the new LOVE Center, located at 12005 E. 45th Ave., Denver, 80239, in the heart of Montbello. With matte-black garage floors, an open layout, and space for distribution, programming, and community gatherings, the space symbolizes both growth and grounding.

Above it, the second level houses 12,560 square feet of administrative offices, counseling rooms, and support spaces where the foundation’s daily coordination and leadership work now takes place. Together, the two levels reflect the organization’s evolution: from a cramped home garage to a center intentionally built to serve thousands with dignity.

A Mission Rooted in Struggle and Lifted by Love

On November 14, the community gathered for the ribbon-cutting celebration. Board Chair Chartashia Miller opened the event with a reminder that the “struggle” in Struggle of Love is purposeful—because real love requires presence, sacrifice, and resilience.

Founders Joel and LaKeisha Hodges stood nearby as their lived experience—nights spent in cars and shelters, years of giving while surviving—was honored. Their story isn’t background; it’s the foundation on which the LOVE Center stands.

“We know what it feels like to need help,” Joel said. “No one should feel invisible while they’re fighting to survive.”

Then LaKeisha Hodges stepped forward, looking around the new space—an industrial-sized garage and the community supporters who filled it.

She grounded the moment in the foundation’s beginnings:

“We began this work in our garage [25 years ago]with nothing but faith, a desire to serve, and a small team of volunteers stuffing backpacks, giving out food, clothing—whatever our community needed. Standing here today, this center represents our promise to every generation—that you will find support, opportunity, and love within these walls.”

Her words brought the entire room into the story.

Leadership and Community

Foundation officers—Miller, Lois McDonald, Kwan Atlas, and Marquez Herrod—were acknowledged as the leaders guiding this next chapter. Guests toured both levels of the center: administrative offices upstairs and more offices, a multipurpose garage, and distribution areas downstairs.

Youth Mentorship: Love in Action

Mentor James Murphy shared the story of Denali Clark, once a shy teen who discovered his voice through music and consistent support. His breakthrough came when he took the stage at an annual backpack giveaway—an embodiment of Struggle of Love’s mission to empower youth.

Donor Angels: The Village That Built the Center

The foundation honored its Donor Angels, whose support made the LOVE Center possible: the Gates Foundation, Colorado Health Foundation, Denver Foundation, Rose Andom Community Foundation, Colorado Access Foundation, Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO), Potential Collective, and the Sunny Boy Foundation.

In addition, numerous corporate partners, faith-based organizations, community donors, and volunteers played vital roles in bringing the center to life. Consultant Sarah Ray was recognized for pro bono expertise, and journalist Kyle Clark was recognized for early micro-funding contributions

Reflections, Blessings, and the Ribbon

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston quieted the room with a childhood memory: swinging at his older brother, who refused to hit back and instead opened his arms.

“If you want to love,” his brother said, “keep your arms open—even when it hurts.”

Johnson turned to the Hodges and added, “That’s what this foundation does. It keeps its arms open—to every kid, every family, every struggle.”

A community prayer followed, and moments later, the ribbon dropped to cheers and raised champagne glasses, opening the doors to a center built with intention and love.

Exploring the LOVE Center

During self-guided tours of the LOVE Center, visitors explored the second-floor administrative offices, conference rooms, mental health and mentorship areas, counseling spaces, and the spacious ground-level garage, now transformed into a versatile hub for programming, distribution, and large community gatherings. Every detail reflects a sense of welcome, safety, and dignity, while the exterior offers ample convenient parking.

Looking Ahead

With its expanded home in Montbello, the Struggle of Love Foundation is prepared to serve even more families across east and far northeast Denver—offering deeper support, expanded services, and unwavering love. On November 22, the  LOVE Center will host its 18th Annual Need to Feed, a Thanksgiving food box giveaway beginning at 1:00 pm. This will be on a first-come, first-served basis until the boxes are all gone.

A Closing Message to the Community

The LOVE Center is more than a building—it’s a reminder that our struggles or personal experiences do not define us. For anyone facing hardship, there is hope, help, and love waiting for you. Keep showing up, keep believing, and know that a community stands ready to support you.