05/29/2026
As Older Americans Month comes to an end, we are excited to highlight the work of Luna Collins and the team at Coal Creek Meals on Wheels . Serving communities across Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, and Superior, CCMOW is doing far more than delivering meals. Through nutritious food, meaningful connection, and programs that support independence, the organization is helping older adults age with dignity and remain connected to their communities. In this conversation, Luna shares how CCMOW is expanding access to meals, advancing sustainability initiatives, celebrating the importance of Older Americans Month, and how mentorship through AFP Colorado has supported her growth as a fundraising professional.
❓Can you give us an overview of CCMOW's mission and your role?
Coal Creek Meals on Wheels’ mission is to support independence and quality of life for residents in Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, and Superior by providing nutritious meals and meaningful social connection. In my role as Foundation & Corporate Relationship Manager, I focus on building and strengthening partnerships with foundations, businesses, and community organizations. I help secure funding through grants, sponsorships, and in-kind support, while also leading outreach and communications efforts that raise awareness of our work. Ultimately, my role is about connecting community resources to our mission so we can serve more people and deepen our impact.
❓Can you share a recent win or story that you're excited about?
I’m really excited about a couple of recent initiatives that expand both our impact and sustainability. Thanks to a grant from Boulder County Public Works’ Resource Conservation Division, we’re taking meaningful steps toward reducing waste by introducing reusable to-go containers in the Coal Creek Café and transitioning away from single-use serving items. At the same time, we’ve been able to expand access to our meals by growing our grab-and-go distribution network. We recently added a new site at Broomfield FISH with support from the Broomfield Community Foundation, which allows us to reach even more community members who benefit from convenient, nutritious meal options.
❓Can you tell us about Older Americans Month and how that is connected to your organization/those you serve?
Older Americans Month is a time to recognize the contributions, resilience, and diverse experiences of older adults, while also raising awareness about the importance of supporting healthy aging. At CCMOW, this is deeply connected to our work. Many of the individuals we serve are older adults who rely on our meals not just for nutrition, but also for connection and the ability to remain independent in their homes. Our services help reduce isolation and support dignity and quality of life. Older American Month is also an opportunity for us to celebrate our neighbors and highlight the importance of community support in helping people age with independence.
❓Has your involvement with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (specifically the Colorado Chapter) supported your professional growth as a fundraiser? If so, how?
My involvement with AFP Colorado has been incredibly valuable, especially through the mentorship program. I’ve found the mentorship to be both motivating and encouraging. My mentor, Marissa Briceno, has been especially helpful in sharing practical strategies for staying organized and tracking deliverables in a way that allows me to clearly see progress and impact over time. That kind of guidance has strengthened both my day-to-day work and my long-term growth as a fundraiser.
