After the Eaton Fire devastated Odyssey Charter School mid-year, securing a new learning space became critical. As a tuition-free public charter school focused on experiential learning and mentorship, Odyssey fosters academic excellence and social-emotional growth. Displaced students and staff needed a stable environment to continue learning and rebuild their routines.
Recognizing the urgency of maintaining educational continuity, ShopCore Properties and Blackstone stepped in, transforming a space at One Colorado into a temporary school. Their support provided students and staff with a stable learning environment, demonstrating how strong community partnerships can directly impact education by ensuring learning continues despite unforeseen challenges.
The transformation of office space at One Colorado into a fully functional classroom was the result of a coordinated effort between ShopCore team members and Blackstone, with the additional support and generosity of dedicated vendor partners, such as SSA Architects and Bentley Flooring, and local volunteers. Understanding that a school is more than just desks and chairs, the team worked to create an environment where students could feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn. Every effort—from carefully arranging classrooms to designing inviting reading nooks and setting up collaborative areas—was made to create a welcoming and supportive environment for learning and well-being within the temporary space.
“Seeing our team come together to create a welcoming space for these students has been truly inspiring. From setting up classrooms to adding final touches, everyone put in the effort to make sure Odyssey Charter School felt at home. This project is a great example of how we can use our resources to make a real impact,” said Sally Lunetta, Senior Director of Property Management at ShopCore Properties.
For Odyssey’s students and educators, having access to a dedicated, well-equipped learning environment has helped restore a sense of normalcy, allowing students to focus on their education. Teachers have expressed their gratitude for the seamless transition, highlighting how the thoughtfully designed space has created an atmosphere that encourages engagement, collaboration, and personal growth.
“We’re grateful to have the opportunity to provide the Odyssey Charter School with dedicated space to be together and focus on their students’ growth in the wake of the wildfires. Our One Colorado team’s efforts to support individuals most impacted reflect our broader commitment to the local community and rebuilding Los Angeles,” shared Alex Vouvalides, CEO at ShopCore and EQ Office.
This initiative reflects ShopCore’s dedication to fostering strong, resilient communities by providing meaningful support where it’s needed most. Helping Odyssey Charter School is one way we continue to invest in the well-being of the communities we serve.
As students and staff settle into their new space, ShopCore remains committed to supporting their continued success. Beyond providing a dedicated learning environment, we continue to assist a range of community groups offering relief to those impacted by the wildfires. This includes our ongoing support through CoreGiving and Baby2Baby, which provides children living in poverty with essential clothing and necessities.
To learn more about ShopCore’s community-focused initiatives and ongoing support efforts, visit https://www.shopcore.com/we-are-shopcore/. To explore Odyssey Charter School’s mission and make a donation, visit https://www.odysseycharterschool.org/home.
Photo Credit: Rafi Kevorkian.