THOMAS PANTOJA
Colorado Springs
Summary
Hard-working and community-focused advocate with 11+ years of experience across nonprofits, youth services, community engagement, and event management. Skilled in trauma-informed care, program development, outreach, relationship building, and coordinating large-scale community events. Proven ability to stabilize and grow programming, increase community participation, and build strong partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and neighborhood groups. Passionate about supporting families, youth, and communities through accessible, inclusive programs.
Overview
2026
2026
years of professional experience
Work History
Program Manager
Concrete Couch
11.2024 - Current
- Lead and manage all community programs, youth activities, and outreach initiatives for a local community-building nonprofit.
- Rebuilt and expanded outreach systems, including social media, tabling, neighborhood engagement, and partnerships with Hillside Community Center, Catholic Charities Family Connections Center, John Adams Elementary, and others.
- Implement program improvements for underperforming initiatives, including Skillshare, resulting in significantly increased attendance and engagement.
- Created and organized "Street Art in the K", a major community festival at Adams Park in South East Colorado Springs with 200+ attendees, featuring local artists, partners, and broadcast media coverage.
- Manage, train, and support program staff; oversee program development from concept to implementation; ensure safety, logistics, and smooth delivery.
- Strengthened partnerships and volunteer involvement
- Led the planning, marketing, logistics, and Eventbrite management for Concrete Couch’s largest-ever summer camp series: 9 free camps, 110 youth participants, 14 teen interns
- Programs included mosaic art, animation, video production, Clay City, Coyote construction, etc.
- Outcomes (from camper & intern surveys): 120% increase in hard skills 27% increase in comfort trying new things Interns: 100% felt more prepared for the future; significant growth in communication, decision-making, leadership, and community connection
- Produce high-quality photo/video content and storytelling for outreach, dramatically increasing visibility and attendance at programs.
- Was independent contractor for social media marketing and community outreach from May 2024-November 2024
Independent Event Manager / Contractor
Food to Power
2023 - 01.2024
- Planned and led major community events including the organization’s first annual Birthday Bash and two Harvest Celebration Fundraisers (2023 & 2024).
- Managed budgets up to $25,000, coordinated logistics, safety, vendors, performers, and volunteer teams.
- Drew 350+ community attendees and state/local elected officials (e.g., Colorado Springs Mayor, Yemi Mobolade and Colorado State Senator Tony Exum).
- Strengthened community awareness of Food to Power’s mission through engaging, accessible, family-friendly events.
Outreach & Program Specialist (AbilityOne Program)
Service Source
01.2018 - 01.2022
- Conducted outreach and community engagement to recruit workers with disabilities for our AbilityOne employment program at Fort Carson.
- Built partnerships with job training organizations, disability service providers, and community groups.
- Maintained extensive data and compliance documentation to meet AbilityOne standards.
- Supported program participants in job readiness, onboarding, and workplace success.
Case Manager & Youth Shelter Staff
Urban Peak Colorado Springs (now The PLACE)
01.2013 - 01.2018
- Provided trauma-informed, relationship-based support to youth experiencing homelessness.
- Conducted intakes, developed case plans, and supported youth in education/employment programming, and transitioning into stability.
- Maintained the safety, structure, and emotional regulation of the shelter milieu.
- Collaborated closely with team members to manage crises, support youth through trauma, and build trusting long-term relationships.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)
01.2013
Skills
- Community Engagement & Outreach
- Program Development & Management
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Youth Services
- Event Planning & Logistics
- Staff Support & Team Leadership
- Partnership Building
- Social Media Management & Storytelling
- Data Tracking & Compliance
- Crisis Management & De-escalation
- Volunteer Coordination
- Public Relations & Community Presentations
Timeline
Program Manager
Concrete Couch
11.2024 - Current
Outreach & Program Specialist (AbilityOne Program)
Service Source
01.2018 - 01.2022
Case Manager & Youth Shelter Staff
Urban Peak Colorado Springs (now The PLACE)
01.2013 - 01.2018
Independent Event Manager / Contractor
Food to Power
2023 - 01.2024
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)