Our HiStory
The Center has served Northeast Park Hill for more than 46 years, growing out of a volunteer-driven ministry of The Zion Baptist Church of Denver. For decades, it operated under the church as the Zion Senior Center, offering care and connection rooted in Zion Baptist Church's long tradition of service. What began as informal, church-based support has become a vital resource hub. In 2024 alone, the Center rescued over 30,184 meals for families in need and continues to be a leading voice in understanding and addressing the social factors that shape health in underserved communities.
Today, the Center has established its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and it has also taken on a new name, the Zion Senior & Community Resource Center. This reflects a broader mission that reaches beyond older adults to serve families and neighbors of all ages. Today, the newly independent Center is building on that legacy in a new way: growing its programs, strengthening its leadership, and remaining a trusted anchor for generations to come, while continuing its close partnership with the church that gave it its start.
OUR TEAm
Gwendolyn Mami, JD
Center Director
Gwendolyn M. Mami, JD is director of the Center, with more than thirty-five years of experience in higher education and nonprofit administration. In that role, she has overseen more than $40 million in externally funded projects. Ms. Mami provides program oversight, fund development, and evaluation support to a diverse clientele.
Rev. Dr. Frank M. Davis
Pastor, Board Chair
Rev. Dr. Frank M. Davis has served as senior pastor of The Zion Baptist Church of Denver for nearly thirty-three years, overseeing some thirty ministries with local, regional, and worldwide impact. Earlier in his career, he served as part of the coaching staff for Denver Public Schools. He also spent sixteen years as a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service.
Leslie Spates
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Leslie Spates is a retired social worker with thirty years of service in Los Angeles County, California, where his caseload included more than 1,500 clients. He now resides in the Denver area, where he continues to provide counseling and instructional services to underserved populations. His work reflects a lasting commitment to community support and advocacy.
Anthony Noble
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Anthony Noble serves as CFO/COO of the Tenure Facility Fund, where he provides financial oversight supporting indigenous and local communities across the developing world. His work helps these communities thrive while advancing the sustainable management and protection of forests and lands. Mr. Noble brings a global perspective to community and environmental stewardship.
Maya Wheeler
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Maya Wheeler is executive director of the Wezesha Dada Center, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering women in underserved communities. She brings in-depth business and financial management experience, including ensuring financial stability, tracking and monitoring budgets, and developing long-term financial plans. Her leadership strengthens the organization's capacity to serve its community.
Sharon Simpson
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Sharon Simpson retired from the Cherry Creek School District after forty years of teaching and serving in an administrative role. She is now an entrepreneur and consultant who develops specialized curriculum for post-secondary education. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to education and mentorship.