In Dove Creek, Colo., a valuable nonprofit offers a lifeline to individuals and families facing economic hardship and social challenges. Reaching Out To Community and Kids (ROCK) works to foster a stronger, more resilient community through a multi-focus approach involving food relief, youth and family enrichment, and community events.  

“It’s impressive how involved ROCK is in the community,” said Kurtis Paradisa, Atmos Energy public affairs manager. “Though the nonprofit’s primary focus is elementary education, when it comes to looking after your neighbor, ROCK really helps out.” 

Carol Marie Howell, a Dove Creek native, established ROCK in 2013 with a dream to build a vibrant community where everyone can thrive, including those facing adversity. Through tireless dedication and a collaborative approach, volunteers have become the heart of this organization. Selflessly serving others through effective and efficient utilization of donations and resources has allowed ROCK to maximize its impact on the local community and aid struggling individuals and families. 

“Atmos Energy has played a critical role in our overall success,” said Howell, who serves as executive director of the organization. “The company and its employees go above and beyond to supply us with necessities that support the Dove Creek community. ROCK is extremely grateful for our partnership with Atmos Energy, and we look forward to expanding that partnership in the future.” 

The core areas of focus for ROCK are youth, family, and community. With a deep sense of compassion for those they serve, various initiatives are in place to inspire and uplift while providing needed relief. These include: 

• Food Services 

  • Monthly Care and Share food distributions for families. 

  • Weekend Breakfast during the summer for school aged children.

  • School Snacks daily for Pre-K to 5th graders in Dolores County schools. 

  • Summer Lunch served weekly to children up to age 18. 

• Youth Enrichment Services (YES) 

  • Skills classes offered weekly in the summer. 

  • Art classes for ages 6-18 throughout the summer. 

  • Games and Activities for age appropriate segments through the summer. 

  • Elementary Book Vending Machine provided by Atmos Energy. 

• Community Events

  • Annual Easter Egg Dash 

  • School Supply Distribution for Pre-K through High School 

  • Halloween “Spooktacular” Carnival 

  • ROCK the Holidays celebration with Santa, lights and Christmas carols 

  • Angel Tree gift program 

Partnering with ROCK was an easy choice because it aligns with multiple pillars of Atmos Energy’s Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities initiative. Since 2017, Atmos Energy has donated over $29,000 in funding used for school supplies, energy assistance, books and a book vending machine, and food for community events. 

"Atmos Energy co-hosts an annual back-to-school kickoff,” added Paradisa. “When we help ROCK organize an event, the whole community shows up. Coming from a small town, that hits home. How the community views us and being an important part of that community is a source of pride for our employees.” 

Click here to learn more about the ROCK organization.