15th Annual Benefit Breakfast a Success! 

Building the future, one extraordinary woman at a time

Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Fong Photography 

The Sheraton’s Grand Ballroom was abuzz with cheerful chatter Wednesday, October 10th, as more than 500 attendees settled in for Jubilee’s 15th Annual Benefit Breakfast. KING 5 Television’s Meeghan Black once again emceed the event, designed to show how Jubilee impacts the community.

A Jubilee resident, Janelle, welcomed guests by singing “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” bringing a hush over the crowd. Immediately following, Dr. Alexandra Kovats, CSJP, blessed the meal and Jubilee supporters.


Next, Board Vice President Matt Sweeney introduced Executive Director Cheryl Sesnon, who proudly discussed Jubilee’s new comprehensive approach to ending homelessness. Matt also announced Cheryl as one of five finalists for Harlequin Romance’s More Than Words award, a national award honoring ordinary women making extraordinary contributions to their communities.

             Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Fong Photography 

Jubilee alumna, Alicia, shared how Jubilee made it possible for her to stand back up after a debilitating challenge and carry on with renewed confidence and skills. When Alicia’s abusive husband of 17 years kicked her out of her home in the middle of the night, she had to leave behind her two sons. This broke her heart. With the support of Jubilee’s staff, especially her care manager, Kathy Lewis, Alicia took control of her life; she got a divorce, went back to college, became a translator and is now able to have her sons stay with her in her new home. Alicia stated, “A better version of me is out there now. I am a stronger person. All of this would not be possible without the support I got from Jubilee.”

Caroline, one of Jubilee’s current residents, spoke next. She shared her passion for writing and publishing with the audience and explained how one mistake had nearly cost her everything. As she pointed out, “It was a mistake on my part, yet it would have been devastating without Jubilee’s help. With your help, I was given an opportunity to fix it.” Caroline also took the opportunity to thank Lynn Boes and supporters of the Ellen Keegan-Boes Scholarship Fund, which allowed her to take more classes to develop her writing skills as she writes her 3rd novel and works to support herself.

           Photo courtesy of Jeffrey Fong Photography 

Last, Volunteer of the Year Stacy Duhon talked about working with staff to create and deliver inspiring workshops for residents and seeing firsthand the transformation that happens within Jubilee’s walls. She expressed, “It is amazing what comes out of these women when they are given fertile ground to grow. That is what Jubilee is for them – it’s a place where they can get the nourishment they need to shine.”

Every attendee left with an origami butterfly that included a special message inside from a Jubilee resident. They also received roses from the bouquets that filled the room, donated by QFC and Denver Wholesale Florist.

Total donations received added up to over $249,000! Donors took full advantage of the $75,000 matching pool for gifts of $250 and above. We cannot thank everybody enough who attended and contributed to this event! Jubilee is truly blessed to have a supportive community that understands the importance of Jubilee for women experiencing poverty.