Our group, the Voices of the 8th, initially formed because we were inspired by Bernie Sanders’ town hall in Greeley and subsequent organizer training. Our very first meeting was May 26th, 2025, and in less than four weeks later, on June 21st, 2025, we held our first town hall in Johnstown. We have since held a second town hall; both town halls Gabe Evans didn’t show up for, of course, but our Colorado District 8 community sure did!
Recently, we have changed our group’s direction to an ever-evolving educational and activism website. Our aim is to elevate the voices in our community to share their messages with those that need to hear it most. The relationships we have been building throughout our community has given us a bigger platform to do this. Individually our voices were not as strong or as loud, as our voices are together!
We are just a group of strangers turned friends! Meet our Team!
Kathryn:
I have spent my entire life in the medical industry as a patient and have worked years in that same industry. I’ve seen first-hand the devastating ways the US medical industry fails patients and healthcare providers, over and over again. As an avid traveler, I’ve been seen by physicians in other countries and have witnessed that the healthcare we have in the US is not, by any means, superior; we just pay a lot more. The more I look around me, the more I see people hurting in the US and around the world. I would never be able to live with myself if I didn’t find some way to help.
Diane:
I worked for the State of Colorado for 26 years. First I helped manage the birth and death records at the health department. Later transferring to the Medicaid department where I managed a grant to help disabled people stay safe in their homes when hiring their own care givers. When the grant ended, I audited nursing homes for Medicaid billing errors. Since the 1990s I’ve participated in rallies and marches, written letters to presidents, representatives, and senators, stood with the Women in Black during the Iraq war, and more recently felt compelled to participate with the Voices of the 8th. The current times need more than letters and phone calls and this group provides the opportunity to make a difference at the community level.
Elleanna:
I grew up believing in an America that was a welcoming beacon of hope and prosperity. One history degree later, I now know our nation’s history is much more complicated than that, but I still believe in the core values we are taught in school. I consider myself a patriot, fighting for liberty and justice for all, no exceptions. As a mother, I know that when you love something, you acknowledge when there is a problem and do the work to fix it. I am inspired every day by the work this group does to truly make our nation great.
Jan:
I am a retired public school teacher with a Master’s in reading (reading specialist) and an endorsement in teaching ESL (my favorite assignment). My longest assignment was 13 years as a middle school reading/English teacher. I still sub for all levels and subjects. I embrace diversity and inclusion, live by the motto that love defeats hate, celebrate all cultures, advocate for immigrant rights and equal rights for all. I am forever grateful for the Bernie Sanders/AOC Stop the Oligarchy tour, which connected me with this talented and tenacious group of citizen activists. We are excited to bring you factual information from independent journalists and trusted sources. Legacy media can no longer be trusted, as they spread misinformation and disinformation daily. Love to all!
Kelly:
Kelly is a Northern Colorado father, community advocate, and member of Voices of the 8th who believes democracy works best when ordinary people refuse to stay quiet. Drawing on his experience navigating healthcare systems, disability rights, and workplace accountability, he is passionate about protecting access to care, defending civil rights, and building a community where families can thrive without fear. When he’s not organizing or speaking out, Kelly is usually cooking for a crowd, chasing a better golf score, or helping his daughter grow into a brave, compassionate human.
Rachel:
Grounded in a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, I serve as a mental health professional, high school counselor, and local school board member dedicated to advancing equity and transparency. My work with Voices of the 8th reflects my belief that community voices must shape representation in Colorado’s 8th Congressional district and drive accountable leadership.
Stephanie:
My first time participating in an election was in 2016, and I’ll never forget the disappointment and fear that washed over me as Trumps name was announced victorious close to midnight. I never needed to pay attention to politics before then, but that night thrust me into attention. Now, 10 years and a daughter later, I’m more determined than ever to make this country one where my little girl can be curious, adventurous, and thrive.