Since its founding in 1982, LIFT-UP has provided countless individuals with a safety net through hard times from Aspen to Parachute. Now, the longtime nonprofit is entering a new chapter under new leadership. The nonprofit operator of food pantries, supplementary food programs, and more announced Thursday that Samantha Freese will be the organization’s new executive director. “Samantha’s background is a strong fit for where LIFT-UP is headed: mission-driven leadership, deep local relationships, and a clear commitment to serving people with dignity,” LIFT-UP Board Chair Tricia Aragon said in the release. “The Board is confident in her ability to build on the strong foundation in place and to lead with care, clarity and collaboration.” Freese, a New Castle resident, has worked with governmental and developmental organizations around the Western Slope as a youth career coordinator for the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment and case manager for Mountain Valley Developmental Services. She most recently worked as the financial literacy and marketing director at YouthEntity. “I have spent much of my career working alongside individuals and families in this community who are navigating economic instability and systemic barriers,” Freese said in a news release. “I have seen the resilience, generosity, and determination that exist here, even in moments of real hardship." “I have also witnessed people being forced to make impossible choices between food, housing, healthcare and transportation,” she continued. “Those experiences shaped my understanding that asking for help is not a weakness, it is often an act of strength. That belief, along with my commitment to this community, guides how I lead and how I want LIFT-UP to show up for the people we serve.” LIFT-UP has a $1.9 million budget and eight full-time staff members, supported by over 250 volunteers who provide an estimated 35,000 hours of service every year, according to the release.. The release stated that the hiring is part of a planned leadership transition. Freese will take over for Elyse Hottel, who had been serving as LIFT-UP’s interim executive director on a contract basis since January. “It’s been an honor to be a part of the LIFT-UP team this past year,” Hottel said in the release. “LIFT-UP is in a good place and I feel confident that Samantha will continue to nurture the organization and our community.” Freese will take over the nonprofit organization that provides over 2,000 emergency food bags annually to families and individuals in crisis, alongside distributing holiday meals, senior food boxes, free diapers and other support. “LIFT-UP has an incredible foundation in this community and impact,” Freese said. “I see tremendous potential to build on that strength by deepening partnerships, strengthening systems, and sharing the powerful stories of the people we serve. With thoughtful growth and collaboration, LIFT-UP can expand its reach while staying true to its values and mission.”