Why choose us

Trusted Public Service

Led by the local governments of Pitkin, Garfield, and Eagle Counties, with support from the CFE Fund.

Expert Guidance You Can Trust

Delivered by the Savings Collaborative’s professional and certified financial counselors.

Free, Confidential Support

Always no cost, judgment-free, and tailored to your goals.

Flexible and Accessible Services

Sessions are available in-person, virtually, or over the phone to fit your schedule and needs.

Who we are

The Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) of the Rockies is the first tri-county and rural FEC in the nation, serving Pitkin, Garfield, and Eagle Counties. This public service is made possible through a collaboration between local governments, the nonprofit Savings Collaborative, and support from the Cities for Financial Empowerment (CFE) Fund.

As part of a national network of 37 Financial Empowerment Centers, the FEC of the Rockies offers free, professional financial counseling to help residents reduce debt, improve credit, build savings, and develop sustainable financial habits. Managed by the Savings Collaborative, we strive to equip residents with the tools and support needed to achieve financial confidence and stability.

By working with local governments and trusted community organizations, we ensure our services are accessible and tailored to meet the unique needs of our community members.

Ways we support you

What We Offer: Managing debt, building savings, improving credit, accessing safe banking. Whether you’re connecting with us for the first time or continuing your journey, we’re here to listen, support, and offer personalized financial solutions tailored to your needs.

Schedule a phone, video, or in-person appointment with one of our experienced counselors in English or Spanish.

Our team of professional financial counselors will focus on creating solutions to meet your unique financial needs:

  • Reduce Debt: Develop a repayment plan that works for you.
  • Build Savings: Save for emergencies, goals, and long-term security.
  • Improve Credit: Understand your credit report and boost your score.
  • Access Safe Banking: Explore affordable, secure banking options.
  • Build Healthy Financial Habits: Set goals and learn strategies to maintain them.
 

What We Don’t Offer: Direct cash assistance, investment advice, or tax filing services (but we can refer you to local resources).

Meet our team

Iliana Renteria

Program Manager

Iliana is dedicated to uplifting communities on the Western Slope. As Program Manager for the Financial Empowerment Center of the Rockies, she connects individuals and families to financial counseling and tools that make a lasting difference. Iliana also serves on the Financial Empowerment Council, contributing to statewide initiatives that promote financial stability. In her free time, she loves exploring Colorado with her husband, Samuel, and their two children, Leo and Annette.

Take the first step toward financial resilience.

Schedule a phone, video, or in-person appointment with one of our experienced counselors

Our team of professional financial counselors will focus on creating solutions to meet your unique financial needs:

Reduce Debt

Develop a repayment plan that works for you.

Build Savings

Save for emergencies, goals, and long-term security.

Improve Credit

Understand your credit report and boost your score.

Access Safe Banking

Explore affordable, secure banking options.

Break it down, step by step.

Set goals and learn strategies to maintain them.

Laura Garcia Villalpando

Lead Financial Counselor

Laura has called Colorado home for over 30 years and is committed to serving her community. After a 16-year career in banking, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector to bridge the gap between clients’ financial needs and available solutions. Laura is certified in community and spiritual leadership and is bilingual in English and Spanish. In her downtime, she enjoys spending time with her family and her beloved pets, Westy, Azul, and Mina.

Break it down, step by step.

Susie Meraz

Financial Counselor

Born and raised in Glenwood Springs, Susie brings over 25 years of experience in mortgage lending to her work at the FEC of the Rockies. She’s passionate about helping families achieve financial stability through personalized guidance. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Susie enjoys walking her pup, Enzo, reading, and spending quality time with her family.

Take control of your financial future.

Patti Cummings

Financial Counselor

Patti grew up in a military family, where she developed adaptability and a strong appreciation for diverse perspectives. With a background in business administration, social work, and certification as a Financial Counselor, Patti is passionate about helping individuals overcome financial challenges. Her experience with survivors of domestic violence informs her compassionate approach to financial counseling. Patti enjoys quiet moments with her senior cat, who always brightens her day.

Your next step toward financial success is just a click away.