Faces, Places & Voices Of PVREA: House Of Neighborly Service

When residents in the Thompson R2-J School District—which includes Loveland, Berthoud, and parts of Fort Collins, Johnstown and Windsor—as well as anyone with a Berthoud address face hardship, House of Neighborly Service (HNS) steps in as a beacon of hope.

HNS is committed to helping those challenged by poverty or unexpected crisis. Next year marks 65 years of service in Loveland and 36 years in Berthoud.

During our conversation with Cherri Houle, Executive Director, one message stood out: “Our goal is to connect families to resources regularly and help them achieve self-sufficiency,” she said.

HNS isn’t just about providing temporary relief. They create pathways to long-term success.

“About 88% of those we serve are currently housed,” Cherri explained. “We have the honor of intercepting their crisis with resources to redirect them to possibilities.”

“Our goal is to catch people when we can and prevent their situations from progressing.”

The first step is connecting people with Resource Navigators who help identify programs tailored to their needs. This proactive approach ensures that individuals aren’t just surviving. Instead, they build a foundation for a better future.

At the heart of HNS is The Life Center — a collaborative hub of 16 nonprofits united to empower people with education, resources, and care. Here, shelves in the Birthday Closet hold gifts for children, while the Treasure Exchange thrift store provides affordable essentials. During the holidays, families receive Thanksgiving food baskets and shop for Christmas gifts at a special onsite store, ensuring celebrations remain filled with joy.

HNS meets critical needs year-round: diapers for babies, food assistance, homelessness resources, clothing, prescriptions, transportation, and utility help. Last year alone, they reached over 6,600 residents, including 2,700 new clients, and provided nearly 67,000 services.

Behind these programs is a dedicated team of 35 staff and 250 volunteers. As Cherri explains, “It is not about just what we give, but it’s how we give: with dignity and honor. Hope must be inspired, and our team wraps this community with care and compassion, listens, then solves problems.”

Despite its success, HNS faces ongoing challenges. Nonprofits and community partners are working together to bridge the gap between funding and needs. Poudre Valley REA has contributed $24,000 over six years to help families keep the lights on.

The future vision of HNS is growth. They aim to build a life center in Berthoud, expand the Treasure Exchange and space in the current Life Center to host more nonprofits and community space, and most importantly they remain committed to bringing people together to support neighbors in need.

As Cherri puts it, “House of Neighborly Service is always growing and evolving, and we will continue our part in this caring neighbor movement.”

Learn more about services HNS offers, donate, or simply spread the word. Go to www.honservice.org