Frank Anello Reflects on Project Worthmore’s Growth in Aurora.
Frank Anello first visited the building at 16th Avenue and Elmira Street as a volunteer, helping refugee families find their footing in Aurora. Back then, it was known as the Colorado Refugee Wellness Center.
In 2020, Anello returned as the co-founder of Project Worthmore, a nonprofit dedicated to serving immigrant communities in the Denver metro area. This week marked a significant milestone for the organization as it celebrated the groundbreaking for the second phase of its headquarters.
“I remember bringing people here and helping to start that community garden,” Anello shared at a podium on the property’s front lawn Wednesday evening. “To see Project Worthmore own this building and create a space that serves refugees and immigrants is truly a miracle.”
The new phase of development aims to enhance services offered at the site, now called “The Roots.” Despite ongoing national debates about immigration and crime, Aurora is committed to expanding its resources for newcomers.
The renovations are part of a multimillion-dollar project funded by donations and grants from the Colorado Health Foundation, the Gates Family Foundation, U.S. Congress, and the city of Aurora. The first phase included a dental clinic and preschool. The next phase will feature a larger food pantry, as well as medical, mental health, and legal services.
Ashley Johnson, Project Worthmore’s director of development, emphasized the importance of their work in this part of the city, particularly along the East Colfax corridor, which is a key hub for immigrants. “Aurora is a diverse city, and without organizations like Project Worthmore, there would be no access to healthcare, dental care, food, or English classes,” she stated.
Each year, more immigrants arrive in Aurora, not only from high-profile communities like Venezuela but also from places like Mauritania in West Africa. “It was crucial for Project Worthmore to recognize that we can’t predict future needs,” Johnson explained. “We need the space to welcome everyone without turning anyone away.”
Project Worthmore’s headquarters is situated between two apartment complexes that gained attention due to allegations of gang-related issues involving Venezuelan residents. These properties have since been placed in receivership after their owners defaulted on loans. Mayor Mike Coffman has sought to mitigate negative narratives about Aurora, while former President Donald Trump has proposed a large-scale deportation initiative called “Operation Aurora” if reelected.
Johnson expressed concern that such rhetoric could harm the communities they support. “They are all grouped together and marginalized,” she said.
Anello echoed her worries. “When someone mentions ‘Operation Aurora,’ it heightens the fear in this community significantly,” he remarked.
While immigration remains a hot topic in political discourse, Anello believes that Project Worthmore’s growing presence aims to address gaps that lawmakers may overlook. “The immigration system is severely broken. It has been for years, and it’s unlikely to improve,” he noted.
Despite the challenges, Anello is optimistic about the expansion. “This renovation will help us provide more services,” he said. “We want to change the national perception of Aurora and show that we are a welcoming community.”
Related topics:
- Candidates Pledge Support for Pro-Immigrant Initiatives at Omaha Coalition’s Accountability Meeting
- How Aurora and Springfield Fit into the US Immigration Debate: A Look at Other Cities Used as Political Examples
- How the Immigration Debate in the Election Could Impact Nevada’s Economy
