Betty Lehman is the mother of Eli, who is 22 and has autism; she experiences her son's disability daily and has spent the period of his life advocating for him and others. She knows that early detection and intervention are the key to change.

Rev. Ron Holmes, board president, The Action Center, formerly Jeffco Action Center, had one of those "close at hand" opportunities discussed in Cluff's book, serving the homeless in Austin. Ron was transporting people who waited in record numbers for clothing assistance from his church on a cold day. Excited even as he picked up the last group, Rev. Holmes was surprised to find the group of men disappointed and discussing that the good "stuff" would already be taken.

Caring an Art and Science

The math related to homelessness and poverty is staggering. Mag Stritmatter, executive director, The Action Center, points out that Colorado had the fastest growing poverty rate in the nation, rising 72 percent, from 2000 to 2008. Eight percent of those in Jefferson County live in poverty, while 14.3 percent do across Colorado, which is nearing the national average.

Fortunately, Lakewood, CO, is practiced at the art of caring. Self-sufficiency is a term that is common in the mission statements of many Lakewood non-profit organizations, of which there are many. Take for example, Boys & Girls Clubs of Jefferson County, which now has 700 members at O'Connell Middle School after just a year of operation. The Clubs provide a safe environment for children in which they may learn and socialize.