THE ROSS FAMILY

Marissa and Justin Ross, owners of Stapleton Mortgage and Realty are well known in the community…their business posters are proudly displayed at area pools, and they sponsor and attend numerous local events throughout the year. Many don’t know that they are also among Stapleton’s first residents, and since building their first home in 2002, have truly embraced the concept of ‘loving thy neighborhood.” They also personify what being a good neighbor is all about–and go far beyond just shoveling snow or taking out their trash for neighbors. They are involved in the community at the most fundamental level– and have been at it for the last 15 years. In fact, before there were tree lined streets or parks, stores or schools, Marissa and her husband Justin were helping forge the strong community spirit that is now its most defining characteristic.

They moved into Stapleton in June 2002 from Northeast Denver in search of their forever home and a place they could start their mortgage and real estate business. They were the second home to be built and for a good portion of the year didn’t have a single neighbor on their street.

“Despite being one of the only families here, we were confident in the overall vision and liked the idea of a “front porch” community where people engaged with neighbors and didn’t just pull into their garage and go inside for the evening,” said Marissa Ross. “Instead, people get to know one another, engage in discussions and believe in giving back to their community.”

It didn’t take long for the streets to begin filling up with homes and for their business, Stapleton Mortgage, to take off. They assisted buyers in financing their homes in the Stapleton community and surrounding neighborhoods. From the beginning, the Ross’s supported the vision of the community by volunteering their time to numerous community organizations. They were among the first SUN Block Captains, joined the Citizens Advisory Board and were instrumental in advocating for diverse housing in the area through their work on the Housing Diversity Committee. Justin was a mayoral appointee of the Stapleton Development Corporation and serves as President and long time member of the Greater Stapleton Business Association. Both are active in the Westerly Creek PTA for 10+ years and have donated thousands to local schools in the community.