Business Center
Community Center
Event Venue
An empty school building repurposed
to meet the needs of our community.
Our Story
About the ELHI Community Center
Founded in 2015, the ELHI Community Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in the heart of Ignacio, Colorado. What began as an empty, underutilized school building has grown into a vibrant hub for local businesses, nonprofits, and community engagement throughout the Southwest Colorado region.
Why "ELHI"?
The name ELHI carries a dual meaning. Originally, the building served as both an elementary and high school. During the transition from school to community center, local children affectionately called it the "Elhi"—a name that stuck. As the organization took shape, the founders embraced this name and gave it deeper significance: Education, Literacy, Health, and Inspiration—four pillars that reflect the center’s mission and values.
A Home for Community and Growth
Since its inception, the ELHI has provided a supportive space for local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Its central location in Ignacio—conveniently close to several larger towns—makes it an ideal site for regional collaboration and access.
More Than a Business Space
Beyond hosting businesses, the ELHI serves as a cherished venue for a wide range of community events. From birthday parties and family reunions to baby showers, cooking classes, and large public gatherings, the center has become a place where connections are made and memories are shared.
Looking Ahead
The ELHI board continues to build on this strong foundation with exciting plans for growth and revitalization. As part of our vision for the future, we aim to modernize the historic building with a more urban look and feel—making it even more inviting and accessible to our diverse community.
Stay Connected
We’re just getting started, and we’d love for you to be part of the journey. Keep an eye out for upcoming updates, and if you’d like to get involved or learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact us—your voice matters!
In the News
Colorado’s Ride: A Bicycle Tour Like No Other
Colorado’s Ride partnered with some non-profits in Ignacio who rolled out the red carpet and provided a great aid station
ELHI opens their doors to an old, new building
Refurbish, reuse, renew, repurpose … either way you say it, it’s always a good thing when we use something…
Native REZ-olution XI Youth Concert Rocks ELHI
I would like to give thanks to all that helped in this year’s “Rock The Youth” Native REZ-olution XI Youth Concert…
ELHI falls into celebrations
The third annual Fall Harvest Festival began with the ribbon cutting for the new “Inspiration Square” on Friday, Oct. 5. The Square is a newly founded…
ELHI to kick off season with festivities
he third annual Education, Literacy, Health and Inspiration (ELHI) Fall Harvest Festival will be held in conjunction with a special dedication ceremony…
Native REZ-olution XI Youth Concert hits stage in Ignacio
Ignacio is getting ready to rock. On Saturday, six Four Corners bands will converge for the Rock the Youth Native REZ-olution XI Youth Concert, which for the first time…
School’s out, but lunch is still served in Ignacio
Summer vacation is well underway, and for some children, that can mean a departure from healthy, consistent meals. But in Ignacio, several nonprofits worked…
ELHI opens its doors
The mission of the ELHI Association is to unify the community and support personal wellbeing by providing safe, holistic opportunities that support…
Farmer’s Market open through Sept. 25
he Ignacio Farmers market held a Grand Opening on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 9:30 a.m. At the ELHI Community Center. Eddie and Betty Box conducted…
For the Children Powwow
he Children’s Powwow made its return to the Education, Literacy, Health and Inspiration Community Center (ELHI) on Saturday, April 6. This is the second…
ELHI Community Center revives old school
As of September 1 the ELHI (Education Literacy Health Inspiration) Community Center has been up and running providing services to…
Ignacio lights up the town!
he ELHI Community Center and the Town of Ignacio worked together to bring back the annual Taste of Christmas celebration and …
Christmas time is here
he Town of Ignacio celebrated their annual Taste of Christmas event at the ELHI Community Center on Friday, Dec. 6. The community event started with…
