A Visionary Transforming Communities in Denver
Amanda Blaurock’s leadership journey is one of transformation, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to community impact. As a 2025 9NEWS Leader of the Year finalist, her story showcases the ability to lead with cultural humility and a dedication to building sustainable solutions for historically marginalized communities.
Crediting much of her early leadership development to the trust and support of her supervisor and mentor, Mr. Brian Moran, during her time at the U.S. International Trade Commission. Her transformative leadership turned a struggling docket services office into one of the best in the agency, a feat she attributes to fostering trust, building authentic relationships, and empowering her team to take ownership of their work.
Inspired by a family conversation during Thanksgiving of 2016 about the country’s need for spaces that celebrate our religious and cultural diversity, Amanda co-founded the Village Exchange Center, a nonprofit organization that serves immigrants and refugees in the Aurora/Denver metro area. As a community center and multi-faith worship space, it seeks to honor and embrace community diversity by creating an inclusive environment where residents from all backgrounds interact, share, and develop together. Through youth and adult programs, services, and cash assistance, as well as cultural and multifaith activities—offered both directly and through partners—the organization builds connections and fosters community growth. Under Amanda’s leadership, the organization has made a profound impact, including supporting 28,000 Venezuelans this year alone.
Amanda’s vision for community engagement includes fostering cultural humility and developing future leaders, as well as creating lasting systems to ensure sustainable support for disadvantaged populations. Through initiatives like the Community Relief Fund, she creates spaces for leaders to thrive while addressing systemic barriers. Amanda is also a staunch advocate for capacity-building in nonprofits, recognizing the critical need for stable infrastructure to amplify community impact.
Amanda Blaurock’s dedication to serving marginalized communities and fostering leadership leaves an indelible mark on Colorado’s landscape. As she continues to advocate for equity and sustainability, she inspires others to rise to the challenges of leadership with courage and compassion.
Vote Amanda Blaurock for 2025 9NEWS Leader of the Year
*Voting open February 12-April 9.
Register for Meet the Finalists, March 5
