EChO
About Us

Our Roots & Growth

Evergreen Christian Outreach (EChO) was born from two parallel paths that converged at just the right moment—one shaped by loss, the other by vision.

In 1986, Rev. Bob Bryan of Church of the Transfiguration felt a calling to look beyond their own congregation and serve the broader Evergreen community. They didn’t have a grand plan—just a clear commitment: if someone in our community is in need, we will try to fill it.

At the same time, in 1987, Jim and Carol Benson faced the devastating collapse of their family business when a partner disappeared with all the assets. But rather than turning inward, the Bensons turned outward. They brought their pain and resilience to a space at the Church of the Transfiguration, and with the support of a growing coalition of local churches, they began transforming their personal hardship into a mission of hope.

Together, these two stories—one of faithful vision, the other of courageous response—came together to form EChO: a place where neighbors help neighbors. From a single, heated building, EChO grew into the beacon of compassion and practical support that it is today.

Some might call it coincidence. We call it providence.

• 1990: EChO officially recognized as 501c3 non-profit.
• 1999: Dorinne Reid and Liz Begalla envisioned a ReSale Store that would keep donated goods in the community. At the time, overflow donations were going to a thrift store in Idaho Springs. They saw an opportunity and convinced our Board to rent a small space in Evergreen for $500 a month. Opening-day sales paid for that first month’s rent.Today, that store provides affordable, high-quality goods to the public and vital home essentials to our clients. It’s a place of dignity, connection, and second chances. And Dorinne is still there—volunteering and inspiring.

• 2008: The Turkey Trot was launched, it was sparked by longtime volunteer and former Board President Liz Hawkins that is now a Thanksgiving tradition for hundreds.
• 2020: EChO purchased a permanent home, uniting services under one roof for lasting impact.

 

85 cents out of every dollar donated goes directly back to our clients.

“EChO helped me find housing after years of living outside. They didn’t give up on me—even when I wanted to.” — Robert

“We don’t see people as problems to solve. We see them as neighbors with gifts to share.” — EChO Staff