Grand Valley Connects celebrates three years of connecting community members to vital resources

Grand Valley Connects is celebrating its third anniversary this month. This Mesa County Public Health program helps residents access essential resources and support services. It has become a critical resource for hundreds of community members as they work to improve their well-being.

Program growth and community impact

Since its launch in 2022, the program has seen a steady increase in demand. In its first year, 300 community members reached out for assistance. In 2024, that number had tripled to 900.

“We have helped hundreds of community members with diverse needs,” said Fallon Knez, Grand Valley Connects Supervisor. “For example, we have helped residents connect to programs to have grab bars installed in their homes. We have helped people apply for housing assistance, and Lifeline cell phones. Our resource navigators have assisted in finding counselors that accept someone’s specific insurance.”

In response to growing needs, Grand Valley Connects partnered with Mesa County Public Libraries to  expand its in-person services. The program offers weekly walk-in hours at the Central Library in downtown Grand Junction and the Clifton Library branch. Walk-ins are accepted every Tuesday at both locations from 1 - 5 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. This makes it easier for residents without reliable phone or internet access to get help. The program also takes walk-ins during regular business hours at the Health and Human Services Building at 510 29 ½ Road in Grand Junction. These are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis as well.

Program background

Grand Valley Connects offers personalized, one-on-one support to individuals who may be struggling to find help with essential needs. Resource navigators work with community members to assess their situations and connect them to services such as:

• Assistance with groceries, utilities, and childcare costs
• Mental health counseling
• Health insurance enrollment
• Employment and disability services

“Accessing services can be complicated,” said Knez. “But with support from Grand Valley Connects, community members can more easily navigate those systems and get the help they need. Sometimes, that help can mean the difference between economic stability and struggling to put food on the table.”

Every person who reaches out to Grand Valley Connects is paired with a resource navigator who listens, assesses needs, and researches options. Together, they create a plan and make connections to resources. The resource navigator follows up regularly—at 30, 60, and 90 days.

How to Get Started

Community members can contact Grand Valley Connects by calling 970-683-2663 or visiting grandvalleyconnects.com. A simple referral form is available online to begin the process.