YOU Are Belmont Heights

By Amy Haeseler 

If you are reading this, then you live in Belmont Heights, with its unique blend of architectural charm, vibrant local businesses, and inviting green spaces. It is more than just a collection of streets: it's a community woven together by a shared sense of belonging. At the heart of the community is the Belmont Heights Community Association (BHCA), which fosters a spirit of unity and shared purpose. It serves as a central hub, a place where residents from all corners of our neighborhood can connect, collaborate, and contribute.  

Being a part of the BHCA is more than just enjoying the fun activities; it means becoming a steward of our neighborhood by contributing your "talent, time, and treasure." You're not just a stakeholder; you become an active participant. For many, the BHCA offers much-needed consistency – a reliable source to find out what is going on, ask questions, and address concerns.  

Derrick Muska illustrates the benefits of community engagement through the BHCA. Initially drawn in by a specific issue – the Red Car Greenbelt – his participation evolved into a deeper appreciation for the connections and friendships forged through the association. He found that the connections and friendships outweighed any work, leading to a broader understanding of the neighborhood and quality of life.  

Greg Haeseler’s perspective adds another layer to our understanding of community engagement. His focus isn't on personal gain but on the collective strength that a unified neighborhood possesses. "It’s not necessarily what I get out of it, it’s what I can do for the neighborhood," he emphasizes. For Greg, supporting the BHCA is an act of civic responsibility, a way to amplify our neighborhood’s influence on decisions that shape our lives. Greg’s words remind us that a strong connection translates to a stronger voice for Belmont Heights as a whole. 

For Maureen Neely, who initially felt a disconnect and wondered how to make a difference, joining the BHCA became the answer. She pondered, "How do I change this? How can I get my voice heard?" By joining and participating in the board and committees, Maureen found that with "the BHCA, action would happen. City council and department heads would listen." This involvement led to "less anxiety [and] less frustrating" experiences. As Maureen discovered, the BHCA provides a platform to move beyond passive observation and actively participate in shaping our community. 

Monica Tabrizi’s experience beautifully illustrates the intrinsic draw. Her initial desire to join the BHCA stemmed directly from "the interest in [a] sense of community." For Monica, this wasn't an abstract idea; it manifested in tangible ways, such as the "shared understanding of the neighborhood you live in." It also meant the comfort and security of "neighbors helping you out," those small acts of kindness and mutual support that weave a safety net throughout the neighborhood.   

To ensure this spirit of community continues to flourish and reach every corner of Belmont Heights, the BHCA relies on the active participation of its residents. By becoming a member, you directly support the initiatives and activities that bring us together. Your membership dollars are a direct investment supporting everything from the holiday tree lighting at the Colorado Lagoon to insurance for our administrative functions and vital contributions to local schools. It's about giving back and supporting our families and students, ensuring everyone can thrive. If you're hesitant about becoming a member, try volunteering your time and find an opportunity to bond with your community through newsletter delivery or the newsletter team. Your involvement, whether through membership or volunteering, strengthens our collective voice and helps us continue to cultivate the unique and cherished community that is Belmont Heights.