Coaching & Resource Navigation
We coach, not case work
Families play a vital role in program development and define their own success, dreams, and goals. JPP coaches work with families as equal partners in creating plans and developing solutions to overcome barriers to accomplish their self-defined goals.
Coaches prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with participants and take an individualized approach to ensure each family’s success. Through trauma-informed training, they practice unconditional positive regard, recognizing the importance of understanding a person’s environment, fostering self-awareness, and addressing unconscious bias and equity. Coaches offer tailored guidance, support, and practical tools to help families reach their full potential.
"I could never have achieved this level of success without [my coach]. I honestly don't think anyone else understands my struggles the way she does and is able to give the kind of help that is genuinely helpful. I truly don't know what I'd do without her."
- JPP Participant
We listen to family voice
Every path to self-sufficiency is unique. The most important strategy we use is engaging with and listening to family voice. JPP understands that families are leaders in their own lives and know what they need to succeed. By listening to families, we can provide meaningful resources to help them succeed in school, secure a new job, and build economic assets through financial literacy.
Meet Our Coaches
Jessica Hansen, Executive Director
Jessica is a passionate advocate for building a community where all people can thrive. As a licensed clinical social worker and Executive Director of Jeffco Prosperity Partners (JPP), Jessica is dedicated to empowering families and creating pathways out of poverty.
She also leads Jefferson County’s Power of Partnership, a faith and government collaboration, as well as Jeffco’s Housing and Homeless Service Navigation Program, working to ensure that every individual has access to stable housing and support.
She has devoted her career to fostering collaborative, community-driven solutions that break down barriers, create opportunities, and uplift families working toward a brighter future. Her leadership is grounded in the belief that when we come together, we can transform lives and build a more equitable, thriving community for all.
Suzanne Godbey, Family Coach
As a retired Jeffco elementary school teacher, Suzanne is passionate about education, creating community, and opportunities for lifelong learning and growth. She holds a bachelor's degree in Science and a master's in General Education. Since joining JPP in May 2022, Suzanne has fostered close relationships with the JPP community, supporting families on their path to prosperity.
Zoe Colvin, Family Coach
Since February 2021, Zoe has been supporting JPP families in reaching their self-defined goals while fostering a strong sense of community. She is dedicated to connecting with each person in a way that honors their unique strengths and needs. Zoe holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Social Work and loves to hike and camp in her free time.
Cristal Hernandez-Cruz, Family Coach
Before joining JPP in June 2023, Cristal spent seven years with Denver Public Schools. She has a background in business entrepreneurship and holds a bachelor’s degree in Individualized Studies and a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. Cristal is deeply committed to empowering youth and families to pursue success, helping them create the framework to achieve their self-defined vision of prosperity.
Sara Cassese, Family Coach
Sara brings nine years of experience with Jefferson County Head Start, where she served as both an educator and Family Support Specialist. She specializes in strengths-based, trauma-informed coaching to meet families where they are, honoring their resilience, to help them set and achieve meaningful goals. Passionate about supporting families through both milestones and challenges, Sara connects them with resources that foster growth and success. Outside of work, she enjoys creating pottery, traveling, exploring history, and re-watching The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At Jeffco Prosperity Partners, a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is one where all employees and volunteers, whatever their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, or disability, feel valued and respected. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement across our organization. We respect and value diverse life experiences and heritages and ensure that all voices are valued and heard.