When Ivette Atencio talks about Monte Vista, she speaks with the warmth of someone whose roots run deep. Raised in the San Luis Valley, Ivette remembers a childhood of snowy winters, long bike rides across town, and neighbors who all knew each other. She also remembers the struggles of growing up in a Mexican-American household where her parents worked long hours in the fields and potato sheds.
As the eldest child, she carried adult responsibilities from an early age, caring for siblings, maintaining the household, and learning first-hand what it means to stretch every dollar. “I always joke that I didn’t really have a childhood,” she said. “But it gave me work ethic. It taught me how to figure out solutions.”
Having faced the realities of financial instability and food insecurity growing up, Atencio developed a profound empathy for others in similar situations. Her career in human services, spanning child welfare to domestic violence advocacy, stemmed from a desire to improve the lives of families like hers. However, the emotional toll of constant crisis intervention weighed heavily on her. When she discovered a job opportunity with the LOR Foundation in her hometown, it ignited a sense of hope.
“Could I channel my passion for service into initiatives that foster joy, not just address crises?” she said. After much contemplation and prayer, she pursued the position, feeling it was the answer she had been searching for. “Now, I get to help people in ways that are still deeply rewarding, but with more joy,” she said.
For Atencio, the true essence of Monte Vista lies in its people. Although the city is smaller than neighboring Alamosa, Monte Vista exudes a warmth that comes from knowing everyone, from the cashier at the grocery store to the neighbor down the street.
Despite differing opinions and beliefs, residents come together during times of need. “I think the Valley thrives when each community thrives,” Atencio said. “And Monte Vista has the chance to set an example of what small-town collaboration should look like.”
I never want to pressure people. If they’re ready, we’re ready.
Ivette Atencio
One of Atencio’s proudest moments was born from a luncheon for agricultural workers in 2024, aimed at gaining insights from Spanish-speaking residents. The gathering quickly revealed a significant need for the availability of Spanish-language CPR and first aid courses. Community members expressed concerns over the lack of life-saving skills among caregivers, often grandparents or extended family members who looked after children in Monte Vista.
“That was such an eye-opening moment,” Atencio said. It sparked a realization about the necessity of equipping caregivers with essential skills.
The idea originated from a local resident who was busy with potato harvest duty and unable to lead the initiative, so Atencio took the reins. She collaborated with public health leaders and, within months, launched free CPR and first aid classes for caregivers. Approximately 25 community members became certified, and interest continues to rise. This initiative exemplifies the LOR Foundation’s approach to community-driven, resident-voiced and responsive programs.
A core principle of the LOR Foundation emphasizes acting promptly while respecting the community’s pace. For Atencio, this means carefully balancing the need for swift action with the understanding that some projects may require more time to develop.
“I never want to pressure people,” she said. “If they’re ready, we’re ready. If they need more time, we go with the flow.”
Sustainability remains a paramount priority for the LOR Foundation as it reaffirms its commitment to Monte Vista. Recognizing that involvement is an ongoing journey, the foundation is actively engaged in learning and adapting as it plans an exit strategy scheduled for 2027.
I think the Valley thrives when each community thrives…Monte Vista has the chance to set an example of what small-town collaboration should look like.
Ivette Atencio
Atencio, a dedicated local leader, emphasizes her deep connection to her hometown. “This is my hometown. I’ll still be here. I don’t want Monte Vista hurting after LOR exits.” She and the foundation are working collaboratively to ensure that the positive impacts of their initiatives are sustained.
Since 2022, the LOR Foundation has allocated more than $1.2 million, funding 165 projects aimed at community development and revitalization. Atencio and the foundation prioritize listening to residents’ needs and incorporating their voices in every decision, demonstrating a genuine commitment to inclusivity.
Through her leadership, Atencio has become a symbol of hope and perseverance. Her story, intertwined with numerous local initiatives and collective efforts, continues to inspire a sense of unity and purpose among residents. Together, they are shaping a more inclusive and sustainable Monte Vista ensuring that the community’s progress endures for generations.
