2023 Spotlight Projects

Continuing education opportuity fund - $10,000

In partnership with Atlas Preparatory School, we have established the Continuing Education Opportunity Fund. The fund seeks to support nontraditional educational pathways during their high school education or after graduation. The funds specifically target nontraditional student trajectories including: CNA certification, technical certification, earn-to-learn programs, and one-time start-up funds for career driven students.

In 2023, the fund primarily supported 8 out of the 10 students who were accepted to the CNA program. All 10 students passed the licensing exam. Students are pursuing healthcare-related careers -about half are pursuing nursing specifically in college.  

A small amount of funds also supported construction trainings and certifications.

Friends of the Children  - $69,000

This grant funding represents a partnership with Friends of the Children and Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy, a public middle school in southeast Colorado Springs. The initial funding will support Phase 1 – the construction of a 7,000 ft outdoor, community playground. The playground will be utilized by youth attending Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy (540 students), youth and families served by tenant, Friends of the Children – Colorado Springs (200+), and residents of the surrounding community of Eastborough (4,600 residents). More than 80% of the youth represent minority populations, and more than 80% are from low-income households. There is not currently a playground at the school and the nearest playground is over a mile away primarily accessible by car due location. 

The initial project was presented on behalf of Friends of the Children as an opportunity to provide a safe and enriching space for families and mentors to gather to further enhance the protective factors facing youth in our community. After discussions with Jack Swigert Aerospace Academy administration, we believe the project can go beyond a playground to serve the greater community. The initial project will be the completion of the proposed playground.

Moniker fully intends to support the project in phases that will further enhance the campus to serve the needs and interests of the school and sounding southeast community in Colorado Springs. ​

Other 2023 Projects Completed

• Peak Education Scholarship Program - $5,000 to support ongoing program operations