Quota Club of Northern Colorado

Quota continues to grow…join us in welcoming our newest members, Toni, Pat and Holly.  Phyllis G. Quota’s Membership Chair had the joy of inducting our newest members into Quota Club of Northern Colorado during our January business meeting. We are so glad you are our newest members and are excited to have you in Quota helping us continue having fun and to raise scholarship monies to serve our community. Welcome!


AND THERE IS MORE…. Quota Club of Northern Colorado kicked off our 2026 year in a very special way. 

Selinda Kusluski, Director

The Director of Little Willows, Selinda Kusluski, was our guest presenter at our January dinner meeting. Selinda told us all about this amazing nonprofit organization based in Loveland Colorado. Little Willows serves children and families in Larimer and Weld counties who are in the foster care system, facing homelessness, or receiving some form of financial assistance. Little Willows mission is to “help children feel confident and cared for through thoughtfully prepared clothing packages delivered with dignity and most of all hope”. They focus on supporting children and families by providing them with new or gently used clothing in individualized boxes specifically for children in sizes preemie to 5T. Each “box”‘ contains enough for a child to always look and feel fresh for the season… “ten mix- and-match everyday outfits, as well as signature pieces, socks, undies and pjs” are included in this specialized and lovingly prepared gift boxes.

Selinda shared that the program was started seven years ago by two sisters who began collecting clothes from many different families that no longer needed them. Their dream was and still is to give new life to the well-loved children’s clothing, enabling new families to feel like these items were an “intentional gift”.

For additional information on this incredibly organization visit their website at https://www.littlewillows.org/

Quota Club of Northern Colorado continues to develop and support programs that will improve the quality of life for others through a variety of service projects in our community. For additional information about Quota visit our webpage at https://quotaclubofnortherncolorado.com/.

ESTATE SALE!!
WHEN: Friday & Saturday Nov. 7^th & 8^th  
TIME: 9:00am – 3:00pm
WHERE: 1337 Green Gables Ct. Ft, Collins, Colorado 80525

Gorgeous Furniture! Movie Posters, Costumes & Memorabilia,  Leather Recliner, Indonesian Teak Bench, Credenza, Lovely Glass Sconces, Electro Lux Vacuum, Elephant Sculpture, Wooden Parasols, Nesting Tables, Bar Stools, Vanity & Bench, Demitasse Cups, Dining Table & Chairs, Linens, Utility Cabinets, Decorative Porcelain Glass Balls, Dresser & Desk,  Plant Stand, Side Tables,  Jewelry Cabinet, Large  Area Rug, Spode China Tea Set, Portable Weber Grill, & Yard Tools, Household Cleaning Supplies, Office Chair & Chair, Fresh Aerus Upright Vacuum, Artwork & Sculptures, Small Appliances, Women’s Classy Clothing & Shoes, International Doll Collection, MUCH MORE! Note: The buyer must remove and transport all items purchased.

Quota NOCO’s October dinner meeting was enhanced by a presentation about The Mathew’s House Organization. And what a joy! to learn how The Mathews House serves our youth and families in northern Colorado. As their mission states “empowering youth and families through connection, self-efficacy, and independence” with self sufficiency as a core value.

What touched each of our hearts was the work they do for the youth in our communities. Bethy, the Youth and Young Adult Housing Manager and the Manager for the The Landing Shelter in Loveland, Colorado explained that “every year, approximately 23,000 young people age out of the foster care system in the United States” and without adequate support, their prospects is grim. The work that the Mathews House organization does is to work with the participants to break the cycle of poverty, abuse as well as neglect by providing much needed support and resources to the youth and family members.  Another intriguing part of the program that is offered to the youth is the “experiential education” experiences the youth can participate in such as rock climbing, music and music lessons, opportunities to learn problem solving skills while playing “dungeons & dragons”.

Lauren the Volunteer Coordinator discussed how volunteers and community partners support their program as well from maintenance, repairs, and transportation to name a few. One of the many area’s volunteers are still needed are individuals with handypersons skills. Lauren shared that various community partners even assist with yard work.

To learn more about incredible work The Matthews house does or consider donating and/or volunteering, click on their website at www.thematthewshouse.org

A lot of wonderful finds just for you! We are looking forward to seeing you for this sale.

WHEN: Friday & Saturday, Oct. 17^th & 18^th  
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Where: 1502 Capulin Dr.
              Loveland, Colorado 80538

Vintage chest, Ladders, Honda Power Washer, Small Drafting Table, Toys, Window Air Conditioner, Gas Power Washer, Toro Power Shovel, Maytag Washer/Dryer, Linens, NEW over door Jewelry Cabinet, Table Saw, Butcher block table & chairs, Craftsman Snowblower, Kitchen table w/ 4 Chairs, China, Recliner/Rocker,   Library Table, Exercise Equipment, Hand weights, CD’s Books, Large Presser Cooker,  Metal Storage Cabinets, Knitting & Sewing supplies, Kitchenware & Appliances, Vintage dolls, Star Wars figurines, Framed Art, Quilts, Quilting/Needlepoint frames,  Holiday Décor, Split pedestal Oak table w/3 leaf’s, Lawn furniture, & MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Note: The buyer must remove and transport all items purchased.

WOW what an amazing resource right here in northern Colorado that focuses on families!
The Family Center/La Familia has served families in northern Colorado for 30 years and Quota NOCO was honored to have Analia Weber, Development Director as our guest speaker at this month’s September dinner meeting.

La Familia’s mission is based on three “Pillars of Service”.

1. Little Nest – El Nidito/Early Childhood Education
2. Family Support Services
3. Mi Voz/ Leadership & Advocacy

La Familia’s Early Childhood program is proud of the distinction they have worked hard to obtain to become a Colorado Shines level 5 rated early care and education program. They provide a multicultural and bilingual learning environment experience for 75 children each and every day.

Family Support Services is a home and community-based outreach program designed to to support the entire family. 

Mi Voz/Leadership & Advocacy is another service La Familia is very proud and dedicated to provide. This aspect of their mission is dedicated to helping families make positive changes in mobile home parks in the North College corridor areas to help to ensure a safe and healthy living environment.

For more information on this dynamic organization visit their website at www.thefamilycenter.org

This estate sale is one you shouldn’t miss! Many, many incredible items that you’ll love to check out abd as always help to support the many ways Quota NOCO supports our community.

WHEN: Friday & Saturday, July 25^th & 26^th

Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Where: 4201 Green Ridge Dr.
                Laporte, Colorado 80535

Hurry, hurry on over for this AMAZING sale that has an abundance of gorgeous! Copper décor, gorgeous Roosters, Household items, TV’s, Washer/Dryer, Hobnail Glass Lamp, Sofas, multitude of Baskets, Patio & Rattan furniture & a lot of Yard décor. Oak Rocking Chairs, Tables Leaf Blowers, Toro Snowblower, Art, Craftsman Saws, electric Lawn Mowers, Shop Vac, Ladders, Whirlpool Refrigerator/Freezer, Ryobi electric/cordless Hedge Trimmer w/Battery, Seasonal items, Vintage School Desk & Rocking Horse, Vintage Singer Sewing Machines, Queen Beds & Headboards, Colonial Bench, Tables, Recliner, amazing variety Vintage Collectables, Vacuums, & MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Note: The buyer must remove and transport all items purchased.

Kristi M. presenter

Quota’s June dinner meeting with delicious appetizers and desserts was truly special! We were so fortunate that our very own member Kristin M. was our guest presenter! Kristi taught us all about the amazing life of Emily Griffith and the dynamic accompaniments Ms. Griffith achieved throughout her lifetime. Emily proved her commitment to what it takes when you set your mind to your passion – you can accomplish so much! Kristi thank you for teaching us about Emily Griffith and sharing your personal experience as an educator at the Emily Griffith Technology College. Thank you Kristi!

The legacy of Emily Griffith
Emily was born in 1868 and was the eldest daughter of an attorney. Emily had an older brother and 2 sisters. When in school her uncle was a teacher who lived on a boat which became a floating boat. On his boat was a hand made sign that read “For All Who Wish To Learn”. This saying became a motto that stayed with Emily throughout her life. Emily Griffith was a pioneer and visionary of adult education and a teacher who inspired her students, especially women.

At the age of 16 she approached a 3-member school board to become the areas teacher. Although they considered her to “naïve” she was hired and her training to become a teacher was two weeks and her salary was $25.00 a week.

At the age of 27, Emily moved to Denver and was hired by Denver Public Schools as a substitute teacher and was later granted a teaching certificate. On her own time, she began offering classes for parents and working with children during lunch hours and in the evening taught math and reading. The night classes were a special challenge since the school had no electricity. Her students brought their own lanterns enabling them to continue learning.  During this time Emily built alliances with many agencies and organizations in the area that dealt with social problems. In 1915 there were two adult literacy classes available that served over 1400 students.

In 1916, the school board began repairing the old Longfellow School building and Emily was appointed principal. The school was the first free and open school for adults in the nation. Emily hoped to start the school year off with 200 students in the first week. But she and her staff were surprised with more than 1400 students enrolled. During this time Emily was sympathetic to the needs of her students and would prepare and serve soup to the students which she made at home and carried the soup to the school via Cable Car each day. Emily and her staff taught English, bicycle repair, masonry, dress making, millinery, shorthand, electrical skills, plumbing,  shoe cobbling and competency test preparation as well as so much more. Students wanted to qualify for apprenticeships and immigrants wanted to prepare for the citizenship exam. In June 2011, Emily Griffith Opportunity School officially changed its name to Emily Griffith Technical College. 

The college has been more than just a school—it’s been a “launchpad for dreamers, doers, and difference-makers in the heart of Denver.”  

Emily Griffith joined the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame in 1985, with her picture displayed at Colorado’s State Capitol.   

For additional information about Emily Griffith- https://history.denverlibrary.org/colorado-biographies/emily-griffith-1868-1947

Emily Griffith

The Role of City Planning

Linda H., a long-time Quota member, is a former City Community Development staff member and graced our members and guests with a fun and insightful evening during our May dinner meeting.

Fort Collins, Colorado, has undergone remarkable growth and transformation over the years. The City’s development follows a structured approach that balances urban and natural areas, making it one of Colorado’s most thoughtfully designed areas. One of Linda’s responsibilities was to check street names; a minor job, with major implications for police and fire locates.  Well… except there are 3 Linda Lanes (pre-dating her job.)

After her time at City Hall, Linda transitioned into real estate and development, helping to build residential subdivisions, and sell lots and homes.  Linda’s understanding of Fort Collins’ layout made her an asset to homebuyers and investors alike.  She stated that “with every new subdivision and neighborhood, there is a challenge to finding original and meaningful street names.” The developers select street names often with a theme for example – local historical figures, birds, trees, Presidents, etc.  On her own as a developer, Linda named the streets after “Formica samples “… which was both practical and creative.

Growth Patterns and Development History

Unlike nearby Greeley, which expanded east to west, Fort Collins primarily grew from north to south. The City follows a well-defined grid system, where every 10 blocks equate to a mile, creating a structured and predictable urban expansion. For quite some time Fort Collins maintained a steady growth rate, averaging one mile of development every ten years and a neighborhood park in every square mile.

One of the City’s defining features is College Avenue, often referred to as the “spine” of Fort Collins. This major roadway serves as a central artery, supporting both commercial and residential areas and providing a focal point for expansion.

Street Hierarchy and Infrastructure

The layout of Fort Collins is based on a hierarchy of streets, ensuring organized traffic flow and efficient land use. Arterial roads handle higher volumes of traffic, while interior residential streets provide quieter spaces for communities. It even affects how the streets are constructed to handle the amount of traffic.

However, a notable distinction arises in areas that were built within the County’s jurisdiction. Compared to city streets, county streets typically lack curbs, streetlights, gutters, and sidewalk features that are standard within city-managed areas — but County lots often have much desired larger lots.

Fort Collins’ development history highlights careful planning, steady growth, and a thoughtful design.

Linda’s knowledge of the area is fascinating and truly captivating! We could have been there for hours and hours listening to her share her knowledge and fun trivia.  As a lifelong member of Quota NOCO, we are so lucky to have her as one of our valued members.

WHEN: Friday May 16 & Saturday May 17^th, 2025
TIME: 9AM – 3PM both days
ADDRESS: 3050 Zephyr Rd., Ft. Collins 80525

PARADISE for Bakers & Crafters! Kitchen Appliances, Exercise Equipment, Snowshoes, Sofa, Rocking Recliners, GORGEOUS Patio Furniture & Firepit, Bakeware, IMMACULATE Cast Iron Pans, BEAUTIFUL China Hutch, Decorative Artwork & Wall Pieces, Fabrics, Patterns, Lamps, Desk, Kayak’s with Paddles, Weber Gas Grill, Craftsman Tools & Tool Chests, & Metal Cabinets, Workbenches, Bedframes, GORGEOUS Bookcases, Canning Supplies, TV’s, Collectable’s, Rolling Storage Bins, Water Toys, Garden & Pet Supplies, Vintage Box Camera, Fishing Poles,  and much more!

Please NOTE: Buyer is responsible for moving & transporting items purchased. Quota profits benefits service projects in our greater community. View our website to see Quota Clubs history of giving to the community.

Quota Club of Northern Colorado was pleased to have the honorable, retired Larimer District Court Judge, Julie Kunce Field, as our speaker for March’s dinner meeting at CB Potts. Judge Field, an alumna of University of Chicago Law school, was appointed to the district court in 2011. During her term, Judge Field presided over domestic relations, civil, juvenile, and criminal cases. She was instrumental in establishing Wellness Court, an award-winning interdisciplinary specialized court program that seeks to reduce recidivism of persons with mental illness by supporting their long- term recovery.

Judge Fields is currently serving as Vice President of the Health District of Northern Larimer County. The Health District of Northern Larimer County is a special tax district created by voters in 1960 to serve community health needs. Today, the Health District provides dental care, behavioral health, and assistance with health insurance enrollment and literacy. The Health District is supported by property taxes, lease payments from University of Colorado Health, interest income, and fees from clients.  Currently, the Health District is going through a streamlining to a new “Strategic Plan” and Judge Field is quite excited about the journey.

Additionally, Judge Field has and does serve as a mediator in various disputes and is part of a multidisciplinary network of family law professionals.