We were reminded recently of what makes our Colorado Springs community great. It is the generous hearts of our neighbors who are willing to welcome a stranger. We believe that America’s greatness does not only exist in our global might but also in our power to love others.

Almost 200 Afghan refugees will be arriving in Colorado Springs, many of them requesting this area because of personal friendships with our military members. Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains is the sole refugee resettlement agency for Colorado Springs, and there is a funding gap while refugees await their work visas.

Last month, we announced a campaign to raise $100,000 to help refugee families settle here, and this is what happened. . .

Thank you to our media partners who made this possible. KOAA News 5 has been committed not only to reporting the news in our community, but they also work actively to make our community better. They held aired an all-day fundraiser sharing stories about American soldiers and Afghan refugees. The Gazette also announced the fundraiser to readers.

Dr. Vinh Chung shared his story of fleeing Vietnam as a refugee, and why he felt compelled to help.

Mt. Carmel Center Veterans Service Center offered their facility as a host site. Military veterans and their spouses answered calls during the telethon. It was our privilege to volunteer alongside these heroes.

We exceeded our goal, raising over $100,000!

We saw an outpouring of generosity from this community to help Afghan refugees. Donations ranged from $10 to thousands of dollars, as individuals stepped forward to give what they could. Thank you for calling in, dropping off checks, and giving online. We have been incredibly touched by your generosity!

More KOAA stories:

• Afghan interpreter shares his journey to Colorado Springs
• Local organization ramps up to assist 200+ arriving refugees
• Frank Samarin, local dermatologist and veteran who served in Afghanistan, gave his perspective.