The Johnstown-Milliken Community Foundation, a regional affiliate of the Weld Community Foundation, proudly announced Ali Ham as the 2026 Johnstown/Milliken Woman of the Year during the first annual Johnstown-Milliken Mom Prom. The event brought together women from across the community for a night of celebration, connection and recognition of extraordinary local impact.
Ham was honored for her tireless dedication to students, families and the broader Johnstown-Milliken community through both her professional role within the local school district and her grassroots leadership efforts.
In her work supporting the district, Ham serves in numerous capacities focused on building systems that help ensure students can get to school, feel supported while they are there and ultimately succeed. Her behind-the-scenes leadership helps create environments where students are not only educated, but encouraged to stay engaged and thrive.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ham is the founder of The Cottage Collective by Weld RE-5J, a community-driven initiative that provides essential items to residents at no cost. The Collective operates on a simple but powerful model: community members donate goods, and anyone in need can “shop” freely without financial barriers, stigma or judgment.
The Cottage Collective has become a vital resource for local families, quietly meeting needs and strengthening neighbors through dignity-centered support. Ham launched the initiative after recognizing a gap in accessible assistance and took action to build a solution rooted in compassion and service.
“Ali represents the very best of our community,” the event organizers said during the award presentation. “She is someone who doesn’t just show up. She sets up, follows up, lifts others up and makes sure people feel seen and supported every step of the way.”
As part of the evening’s recognition, the Johnstown-Milliken Community Foundation presented a $500 contribution to The Cottage Collective to further its mission and expand its reach.
“Ali exemplifies what we want this honor to mean each and every year,” says Amy Tallent, chair of the Johnstown-Milliken Community Foundation. “She is a woman who didn’t wait for change; she created it and delivers it time and time again. We are blessed to have her in our community.”
The Johnstown-Milliken Mom Prom was created as a signature annual event to celebrate and connect women while spotlighting those making a meaningful difference locally. Organizers plan for the Woman of the Year award to remain a cornerstone of the celebration for years to come.
