The season of giving, spanning from late November through early January, is a time defined by kindness, generosity, and gratitude. It begins in earnest with Giving Tuesday, a global movement encouraging people to give back through acts of service, gifts, and charitable donations.
At Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC), the spirit of giving isn’t limited to one season, it’s part of who we are. However, during this time of year, we amplify our community engagement, partnering with students, employees, and local organizations to support those in need and celebrate the power of connection.
Upcoming Event: State of the Community and Wreath Auction
• Nov. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at Rector Hall – CNCC Rangely Campus.
Join us for CNCC’s first-ever “State of the Community” and Wreath Auction, a festive kickoff to the holiday season and an opportunity to come together as a community.
Educators, elected officials, and local leaders will share updates on the work being done to strengthen our region. Guests will enjoy healthy appetizers, beverages, and great conversation. All are welcome!
Students and Employees Giving Back
Each year, CNCC students and employees engage in projects that reflect our mission of service.
• Dental Hygiene students recently visited Horizons in Craig, an organization supporting children and adults with developmental and cognitive differences. Students provided teeth cleanings and shared oral hygiene education with clients.
• CNCC employees are currently leading a winter coat drive for students and community members in need.
Responding to
Community Needs
With the recent government shutdown, the temporary halt of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in November could affect more than 600,000 Coloradans, including some of our students and neighbors.
To help bridge this gap, CNCC is launching a drive to support both our campus food pantries and local food banks.
We invite our community to join us.
Local Food Assistance Programs:
• Food Assistance – Rio Blanco County
– https://www.rbc.us/290/Food-Assistance-Programs
• Food Pantries – Moffat County
– https://moffatcounty.colorado.gov/sites/moffatcounty/files/FoodResrcs.pdf
These organizations currently prefer gift card donations (general or local grocery stores), which allow them to meet specific needs efficiently.
For those wishing to donate directly to CNCC students, please drop off snack or meal items at:
• Craig Campus: Administration Building – Welcome Desk
• Rangely Campus: Johnson Building – Student Services
Why It Matters
Participating in the season of giving reinforces CNCC’s role as a community leader and anchor. Together, we demonstrate compassion, service, and shared responsibility. Our students not only benefit directly from these efforts but also learn empathy, leadership, and civic engagement, skills that last a lifetime.
We are deeply grateful for our on- and off-campus communities.
From all of us at CNCC, we wish you a healthy, joyful, and generous start to the holiday season.
By DR. LISA JONES
CNCC President