The Impact of Karis, In His Own Words
Remarks shared by Karis alum Elam Finn at our 50 Years of Hope & Healing Celebration on May 15, 2026.
First and foremost, I would like to thank Annie and Daliah for being such gracious and wonderful hosts for the evening and for all their aid and assistance through my ups and downs over the past year. Karis, in general, has been a blessing and an inspiration for me and countless others. When I first heard about the program, I knew at once that it was going to be a good fit for me; what I didn’t know was that it would help me build a life I could never have predicted.
Karis is a place where I could belong and be myself while working on some semi-forgotten skills, like structure, social skills, communication, and community living. Coming into this, I was confident, but not as confident as I am now as I move forward into independent living. This program put me in the right head and heart space I needed to reclaim my destiny. I can’t express the difference it has made and the impact on my mental health, as well as my overall well-being.
The kind of work they do at Karis is revolutionary, especially for someone who might feel lost, hopeless, and confused about their future after significant setbacks or trials. That’s where this outstanding organization steps in.
The kind of work they do at Karis is revolutionary, especially for someone who might feel lost, hopeless, and confused about their future after significant setbacks or trials. That’s where this outstanding organization steps in. Other transitional living homes and halfway houses cannot compare to the love and respect shared among the clinical staff and administration at Karis Community. Their kindness and empathetic hands-on approach are the kind of operation that changes the circumstances for those blessed enough to take part in their history. It is truly one of a kind, and I believe places like this have the potential to change Denver and impact the world.
The common courtesy and respectability demonstrated by Karis and its affiliates are motherly and considerate. They were able to assist me in my quest for a better life by extending grace and forgiveness when I slipped and stumbled. Sure, I had a few tribulations in my stay at the house, but I always felt like I had a safety net with the guidance that Daliah and Annie provided. They patiently and precisely intervened, giving me the opportunity to change my life while keeping the heat on and the food on the table.
I was a resident at Karis from February 2025 to January 2026. I remember my first day moving in: I had a lot of totes to carry in and was kind of nervous and weary from the long drive from Pueblo. Thinking I would have to make it up three flights of stairs with all my stuff by myself, I was beat. I was wrong. Jeff was there to greet me and immediately started helping me with my things. And just like that, he has been there for me ever since. I think it’s the little things Karis does for us that will always be remembered, and I count them as a badge of honor.
For future residents and applicants, just know that you are in the right place. These people care.
I have always been in the habit of not wasting time, and my time was well spent living at Karis. They helped me address my condition realistically and responsibly, and helped me bounce back onto my feet and hit the ground running. My days are long and my nights are pleasant, and part of that is attributed to the reintroduction and rehabilitation I could not have received at a traditional arrangement. For all of you who call Karis Community home, you are fortunate to have found a home like this. Karis is like no other and remains in my thoughts and prayers every day.
For future residents and applicants, just know that you are in the right place. These people care. They are diligent, capable, and resourceful. They can contend with the best of them and do not waste time on insignificant aspects of transition. They will be there for you. They will fight for you. They will care for you. Whether you have a health concern or need a letter of recommendation, you’re in the right hands. They will cover you with their wings and help you develop a set of your own. Thank you for your time, ladies and gentlemen, and Jesus loves you.
By Elam Finn, Karis Alum