2023 - 2024
Barton Institute Strategic Framework
Mission
We partner with community entrepreneurs to provide the people of Metro Denver opportunities to thrive by creating and supporting safe community spaces.
Vision
Our vision is that all people in Metro Denver have the power, access, means and freedom to lead the lives they want.
Focus
We focus on projects that use strategies and approaches that others can adopt and adapt.
Core Values
The Barton Institute is…
Community-driven
Dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Committed to listening and learning
Action-oriented
Agile and flexible
Financially prudent
In service to community
Key characteristics of community entrepreneurs
The word for entrepreneur in Spanish is emprendedor, which literally means “one who illuminates”
Community entrepreneurs…
Engage in deep listening
Are user-centered
Can harness resources
Are visionary; they see what is possible
Build trust and long-term relationships
Are accountable to the community and to themselves
Have empathy, humility, and courage
See the trees and the forest
Key characteristics of safe community spaces
Safe community spaces are…
Inclusive
Free from violence and bullying
Joyous, healing, and accepting
Places with shared leadership
Places for connections--- with people and resources
Open and nurturing
Places where people feel a sense of belonging
Places where people feel heard and seen
2023 - 2024 Goals
Goal 1
Support our three fiscal sponsees in making a positive impact in the community.
A. Deliver exceptional fiscal sponsorship services in the areas of:
i. Employment (payroll, benefits administration, HR)
ii. Accounts payable and accounts receivable
iii. Grant management
iv. Partnership and mentorship/leadership
B. Colorado Safe Parking Initiative
i. Help them to grow, serve, adapt, and be sustainable
ii. Develop the staff and infrastructure needed to serve as many as 30 safe lots throughout Metro Denver
C. Commún
i. Help them to grow, serve, adapt, and be sustainable
ii. Assist them with their work to develop a community center on the Loretto Heights
campus
D. Village Institute
i. Help them to grow, serve, adapt, and be sustainable
ii. Assist them in becoming a separate 501c3 whenever they choose to do so
Goal 2
Continue to develop the Barton Institute as a strong, sustainable, and vibrant organization.
We want to leverage the philanthropy of the Barton family and other donors by making a positive impact in the metro Denver community.
Goal 3
If resources permit, add one or two additional fiscal sponsees in late 2023 or 2024
Ideally, organizations led by community entrepreneurs who are people of color from the community. Ideally, these organizations create and provide safe community spaces.