Sara Vaas, CONO's Executive Director, departs on May 3rd, leaving a legacy of growth and community engagement since 2015. CONO assures continuity, actively seeking her successor. CONO is grateful for Sara’s support and excited for the future.

Discover how CONO's Dine for A Cause event at Applebee’s rallied community support, raising $175.22 for vibrant communities. Join the movement!

Discover the inspiring journey of Gloria, a transformative force in Colorado Springs' Knob Hill neighborhood, empowered by Neighborhood University. Uncover the impact of education and community on Gloria's story as she navigates challenges, forms a neighborhood association, and spearheads positive changes.

Watch CONO’s appearance on Love Living Local with FOX21 News where they shared information about Neighborhood University!

Immerse in sophistication at CONO's triumphant fundraiser - The Hands They Were Dealt Book Launch! Author Mandy Penn shared insights and signed books. With $900 raised through book and casino sales, the impact on CONO's mission is profound. Secure your copy of The Hands They Were Dealt for a memorable night of magic and community engagement.

Unleash creativity in your community! Discover how Monterey Elementary School turned a $500 stipend into a vibrant storm drain art project, engaging students, local artists, and neighbors. Transform your neighborhood with this inspiring tale of artistic collaboration and community spirit. Ready to paint your masterpiece? Dive into the world of community art projects and ignite the spark of creativity in your area!

Learn about CONO and Meadows Park Community Center's eco-conscious victory! 2022 Earth Month Recycling event highlights: 115,284 lbs. of paint, 2,500 lbs. of electronic waste, and more. Witness the power of community sustainability!

Discover how CONO is transforming neighborhoods in Colorado Springs. With a grant from the Colorado Trust, they're establishing governing bodies, empowering residents, and fostering resilience. Join the movement for vibrant and empowered communities.

Explore the unveiling of Printer's Hill on January 4th, promising a revitalized neighborhood at Pikes Peak and Union. CONO hosted the event, sparking both hope and concern among residents about the project's scale and impact on the community's low-rise charm.

Explore the highlights and achievements in the CONO 2023 Annual Report, capturing the vibrant community's dedication and impactful moments. Delve into the pages, reflecting on collective efforts that propelled CONO as a hub of excellence and innovation. Your engagement continues to build a stronger, connected community.

Amelia Allen (Sixty 35 Media)

Sara Vaas, Executive Director of the Council of Neighbors and Organizations, is spearheading a new free 10-week course called Neighborhood University, seeking to “establish a foundation of civic knowledge for engaged citizens in Colorado Springs and El Paso County.”

Eight months ago, CONO relaunched its vision in a community room with more than 100 neighbors and elected officials. During this time, community members engaged with board members and discussed the new mission and vision, programs and initiatives, and learned about neighborhood networks.

Today I’m offering you a chance to go back to college — Neighborhood University — and do the other things I mentioned: meet people, make important friends and learn ways to improve your life and those of your neighbors.

We are coming to a neighborhood near you to talk about how we can help you strengthen your neighborhood and inspire those around you to get involved in the issues facing your community.

We are coming to a neighborhood near you to talk about how we can help you strengthen your neighborhood and inspire those around you to get involved in the issues facing your community.

At public meetings, I’m often asked how I became passionate about neighborhoods and connecting communities. Until about six years ago, I really didn’t know much about neighborhood engagement or the public planning process.

Would you know who to call if the vacant lot near you suddenly became the site of a development project such as an apartment complex or fast food restaurant?

Would you know how to call your city council representative, county commissioner or planning department?

Do you know who your elected officials are or where to find them?

The name of this column says it all ... I believe with great passion that community matters.

And that’s why I’m so happy to be back at the Council of Neighbors and Organizations — you probably know us simply as CONO — doing the work I love: strengthening our community by building up neighborhoods across the Pikes Peak region by showing them how to work together