When I pictured my summer internship, I imagined endless coffee runs, soul-crushing data entry, and the quiet hum of an office where everyone was too busy to notice the intern. What I found at One Colorado was a vibrant, sometimes chaotic, always inspiring ecosystem of passionate individuals who, against all odds, managed to make politics feel less like a consuming black hole and instead gave me hope for the future of LGBTQIA+ rights.

This wasn't just an internship; it was an immersion into a bright community. And as much as we see the results of their work, we often don’t see the people BEHIND the work.

Starting with Alex Limas. Limas brought a sense of calm and steadiness to the team, a grounding presence when Cal’s antics reached their peak (which was often). His love for music, movies, and anything creative infused the workday with an artistic rhythm, reminding us that even in the serious world of advocacy, there is always space for creativity and joy.

Cal, on the other hand, was the maestro of humor. They had an uncanny ability to keep the tone light, even amid serious (and often upsetting) legislative conversations. Their wit and levity served as a much-needed reminder that laughter can be one of the most sustaining forces to bring people together when fighting for equality.

The Pride tabling days were a testament to pure, unadulterated determination, led by Aspen and Megan. Hours melted under the Colorado sun in a hotbox of a tent, but their smiles never faltered. They were beacons of engagement, drawing in every passerby with an infectious enthusiasm, inviting anyone who listened, and helping defend transgender rights in Colorado (sign the petition here). Their determination was a strong, powerful force, a masterclass in committed advocacy.

Then there are the powerhouses, Jax and Brandi. Jax is a force of nature, a political savant who cuts through the noise with refreshing honesty. In an age of sugar-coated soundbites, Jax delivers the unvarnished reality. They ignited an urgency within the team, a fierce desire to move mountains in a world that currently feels like it's tumbling backward. And then there was Brandi. On my very first day, she brought in her camping gear and casually offered everyone dried chicken pot pie straight from the container. But beyond that lighthearted (and surprisingly delicious) moment, what stood out to me most was Brandi’s confidence — in herself, in her ideas, and in her work. She carried herself with a kind of grounded assurance that I deeply admire as a young professional just starting my career.

Ian was the quiet hero, a testament to the power of small acts of kindness. Always willing to lend a hand, regardless of department, with a genuine smile and light joke. One morning, I walked in to find the chaos of pens, miscellaneous folders, and stickers next to my desk transformed into pristine order, all thanks to Ian. It was a small gesture that spoke volumes about his thoughtfulness and dedication.

And then there's Nadine, our fearless leader. She embodies strength, professionalism, and profound empathy. Nadine has this incredible ability to make sure every voice in a room is heard, even the shyest ones. She took the time out of her busy schedule to meet with me on a random Tuesday and ask me questions about college and what I enjoy in my free time, just to get to know me. She leads with kindness, removing ego, and wearing her heart on her sleeve to cut through the complexities of advocacy.

Alex Floyd is another beacon of passion and intellect, and watching their health journey unfold with such excitement was truly inspiring. Beyond the work itself, I loved hearing little tidbits about their life, like meeting their partner at an event in Littleton and even learning how the history of pockets somehow relates to witches??

Our office had its own resident Snow White in Cordelia, always surrounded by stories of her beloved animals, which painted a picture of a gentle soul with a deep love for all creatures great and small. I could often hear her laugh from my desk or through a virtual meeting, and it was so contagious that I’d find myself smiling without even realizing it.

Sage brought an artistic flair, their photography and creative spirit adding a unique dimension to our work – a reminder that advocacy also needs beauty and imagination. They once had the team watch a documentary short over lunch, turning an ordinary midday break into an emotional and thoughtful reflection of our work.

My five-hour "mocktail rating" session with Sam at the Pink Party was anything but boring. Sharing a tent for hours with just one other person could have dragged on, but with Sam, it felt like watching your favorite TV show. We judged concoctions with the discerning palates of seasoned critics, making shallow (and hilarious) assumptions about who would prefer which drink. Sam, with their effortlessly cool, heel-less heels and boundless creative energy, was a joy to be around, their artistic spirit an undeniable guiding force.

Finally, there's Micah, the indefatigable force behind the Colorado Springs Pride. I vividly remember standing in the rain, waiting for Micah’s truck, and them texting me to make sure I had an umbrella while they were busy lugging heavy equipment. It was a small but memorable act of care that encapsulated the spirit of this team – always looking out for each other, always going the extra mile.

This summer at One Colorado wasn't just about gaining professional experience; it was about connecting with an extraordinary group of people who are genuinely changing the world, one passionate conversation, one tireless event, and one shared laugh at a time. It was a privilege to be part of the team for the summer!