Speakers

Marissa Bovee, TESSA, Director of Development

TESSA was established in May 1977 in response to a high rate of calls to local law enforcement from women threatened or assaulted by their partners. At the time, Domestic Violence was considered a private matter and resources were difficult to locate, if they existed at all. With assistance from within the legal and philanthropic communities TESSA emerged as an information provider and resource referral service. That initial effort has evolved into a multi-faceted agency that includes a confidential Safehouse, Victim Advocacy, Counseling and Children’s Programs, a 24/7 Safe Line, and Community Outreach and Education. Through these efforts, TESSA strives to realize our vision of a community free of personal violence for all.

Bella Terra Farms

Our mission is to provide a welcoming and therapeutic sanctuary for individuals healing from emotional, psychological, or physical conditions. We extend a special welcome to our friends with Special Needs who may benefit from animal and play therapies.

We offer hands-on experiences that promote comfort and healing through animal-based interactions and play. At our interactive farm, people of all ages and backgrounds can touch, hold, brush, hug, feed, and spend time with our sweet and friendly miniature farm animals. We also provide sensory-driven play experiences that stimulate happiness and reduce stress.

We are particularly passionate about supporting the Special Needs community, as well as those dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety, or anyone in need of extra care, healing, and support. We believe that animals and play offer unique therapeutic benefits, fostering healing in the body, mind, and spirit.

Our services are completely FREE OF CHARGE to visitors, made possible through the generosity of our donors. Enhance your healing journey with us today!

Beth Santiago, CASA

In the 1980s, studies conducted by the Junior League of Colorado Springs revealed that child abuse victims in El Paso and Teller Counties lacked representation and advocacy. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) was identified as the best solution to address this growing need, leading to the formation of a local chapter in 1989.

The Junior League, along with the El Pomar Foundation, provided start-up funding for the first two years of CASA's operation. Since then, CASA of the Pikes Peak Region has been recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers who advocate for children in the 4th Judicial District (El Paso and Teller Counties). CASA’s mission is to ensure the safety and permanency of children whose lives are in turmoil.

Over the past 30+ years, more than 20,000 children’s lives have been positively impacted in the Fourth Judicial District.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience with Lisa Bischoff as she reveals the riveting story behind "Confessions of a Diamond Heist." A former hacker, jewel thief, engineer, and convict turned healer, Lisa takes you on a rollercoaster journey from the world of high-stakes crime to life-changing transformation. 

In her captivating talk, Lisa shares the gripping details of her involvement in a daring diamond and jewel heist, weaving humor, suspense, and inspiration into every moment. But this isn’t just a story about crime—it’s about redemption. It’s about how hitting rock bottom can unlock the potential to rise higher than ever before. 

Lisa’s journey didn’t end with the heist; it was only the beginning. Through her signature program, "Hack Your Healing," she guides others to rewrite the code of their lives. With tools like "Soulware Updates" for spiritual clarity, "Design Your Destiny" for mastering your future, and "Fitness Shortcuts" for effortless health, Lisa helps individuals heal from their past and step boldly into their destiny.

Her "Deliverance by Diamonds" approach transforms life’s challenges into opportunities for refinement and brilliance, much like a diamond under pressure. It’s not just about surviving adversity; it’s about thriving through it—finding the fast track to healing and empowerment.

Prepare to be entertained, inspired, and transformed as Lisa invites you to hack the system of your life, one "Hack Your Healing" moment at a time. Together, you’ll ignite your inner brilliance and embrace a lustrous new path forward.