Press releases are provided to Yellow Scene Magazine. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

Thursday, July 9, 2026

Media Contact:

Layra Nicli, Media Relations, City of Boulder, 303-818-4678

bouldercolorado.gov

City of Boulder launches pilot program to help nonprofits prepare for power outages

New Resiliency Hub Pilot Program will provide funding and technical support for battery backup systems

BOULDER, Colo. – The City of Boulder is launching the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program to help nonprofit organizations prepare for extended power outages by installing battery backup systems that can support critical community services.

Through the pilot program, qualifying nonprofits can receive up to $50,000 toward a battery storage system or a battery-plus-solar system, along with support from an energy advisor to help evaluate options and guide organizations through the process.

Recent Public Safety Power Shutoffs, extreme weather events, and infrastructure challenges have highlighted the need to better prepare for longer outages and understand how local resources can support community needs. Through this effort, the city will explore how community-based energy solutions can help with access to essential resources during outages while learning what approaches can best support future resilience efforts.

“Boulder has experienced a shift in how we think about and prepare for power outages,” said Carolyn Elam, Sustainability Senior Manager with the City of Boulder. “While improvements to the electric grid remain an essential part of this work, this pilot recognizes the important role community organizations play in helping prepare for and respond to disruptions.”

Many nonprofit and community organizations already provide essential services during emergencies, but the cost of backup power systems can be a significant barrier. The Resiliency Hub Pilot Program is designed to help organizations invest in these resources while providing the city with valuable information about how different models can support different community needs.

Funding for the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program comes from taxes collected on solar and battery storage systems, made possible through ordinance changes approved by City Council earlier this year.

Interested organizations are invited to attend a conversational workshop on Monday, July 27, to learn more, connect with like-minded organizations, and explore broader community resilience needs with city staff.

Applications are open and must be submitted by Aug. 14, 2026.

For more information about the Resiliency Hub Pilot Program, visit our website.

– CITY –

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The post City of Boulder Launches Pilot Program To Help Nonprofits Prepare For Power Outages appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Correction: An earlier version of Yellow Scene’s 2026 Primary Election Endorsements incorrectly identified Heidi Henkel as the incumbent in House District 33. The incumbent is Rep. Kenny Nguyen. The error was corrected shortly after publication.

Editorial endorsements are a longstanding function of journalism. Yet as media has consolidated and nonprofit restrictions have reshaped the industry, fewer newsrooms continue the practice.

Yellow Scene believes election endorsements remain an important public service. Our editorial board debates the issues, examines policy and records in depth, and does not lightly arrive at endorsement decisions, particularly in closely contested races. This guide focuses on races within Yellow Scene’s Boulder County and North Metro coverage region rather than attempting to cover every contest statewide. Over 26 years, Yellow Scene’s Election Guide has received multiple journalism awards, including three first-place honors, and earned a reputation for asking difficult questions and examining candidates beyond campaign slogans.

U.S. Senate

John Hickenlooper v. Julie Gonzales

The Pick: Julie Gonzales

Julie Gonzales

John Hickenlooper

State Democrats deemed this the most contested statewide race this spring. At the state assembly, activist turned politician Julie Gonzales took home nearly 75% of the delegate share. Gonzales, who has been working in the Colorado Senate since 2018, will face incumbent US Senator John Hickenlooper. While the Hickenlooper campaign leans into terms like “grassroots” and “independent perspective,” his lengthy résumé as the former mayor of Denver, Colorado governor, and current senator tells a different story.

Having taken over $500,000 in AIPAC money, Hickenlooper’s narrative conflicts with his status as a political insider. Some argue Hickenlooper has been unable to meet the political moment, voting with Trump 11% of the time in his first term and saying Democrats need to “select our battles.” In 2020, an ethics committee ruled he violated state law by flying in a donor’s private plane.

Gonzales has decried the war in Gaza, pledged to back antitrust enforcement to break up monopolies, and supported Medicare for all, positions that demonstrate she has the energy and fresh perspectives the party needs.

Governorship

Michael Bennett v. Phil Weiser

The Pick: Phil Weiser

Phil Weiser

This race features two prominent Colorado politicians vying for higher office, starting with Michael Bennet, a former school superintendent turned U.S. senator. During his years in Washington, Bennet has drawn criticism for confirming eight of Donald Trump’s nominees and for his extensive campaign support from major donors and political action committees.

Michael Bennet

He has accepted over $300,000 in AIPAC funds and holds a significant edge in super PAC support. In fact, a May report showed Bennet tallying over $4 million, including substantial “dark money” from undisclosed donors, compared to Weiser’s just over $1 million. Policy-wise, Bennet’s affordability platform caps housing costs at 30% of household income, and he champions a public Medicare option alongside childcare tax credits. However, these are proposals that some progressive Colorado Democrats might view as lukewarm or tepid at best.

In contrast, Phil Weiser enters the race as the state’s former attorney general and one of the few Colorado leaders boasting a rising approval rating. As AG, Weiser built a reputation as a consistent fighter during the Trump administration, taking the federal government to court when it threatened funding for hospitals, Social Security, and Medicare. He has also leaned heavily into consumer protection, returning millions of dollars to Coloradans by taking on corporate landlords, fraudsters, and major pharmaceutical companies.

Attorney General

Hetal Doshi v. Michael Dougherty v. Jena Griswold v. David Seligman

The Pick: David Seligman

David Seligman

Jena Griswold

Jena Griswold, current CO Secretary of State, has leveraged internal polling to claim her campaign is running away with this race. Griswold claims a lack of familiarity with the other candidates is solidifying her position among voters. In her time in office, she attempted to remove Trump from the 2024 ballot and urged the Supreme Court to remove him as president. She is hoping her name recognition and history of standing up to the administration will win her the race.

Michael Dougherty has perhaps the most impressive experience of these candidates. He has a string of high-profile, Colorado DA endorsements. In Manhattan, he led the sex crimes unit at the DA’s office. In Colorado, he developed a DV response team and a vehicular response team. He prosecuted the King Soopers mass shooting and the Boulder Pearl street firebombing.

Michael Dougherty

Dougherty, however, has a lackluster vision for AI, vaguely promising to enact “smart policies” at a time when data centers are contaminating water in states facing droughts. Dougherty has faced harsh criticism for his decision to neither press charges nor launch a criminal investigation into the death of Jeanette Alatorre. Furthermore, he remained silent when the city moved to illegally block access to the body camera footage. While his extensive experience is undeniable, Dougherty’s platform ultimately plays it too safe and misses the vision Colorado needs.

Hetal Doshi

Hetal Doshi is a first-generation American who has been an assistant attorney in CO and a Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division. Her career has focused on breaking up big tech monopolies and protecting Colorado from Trump’s funding cuts. In Colorado, though she supports investing in “entrepreneurs working in tech,” a position at odds with her previous work against monopolies. Doshi also maintains a stance against oligarchs, a group Seligman has promised to go after. Whereas Seligman’s proposals are comprehensive, Doshi’s are vague.

David Seligman is the director of the nonprofit Towards Justice, which he built to support labor rights. He was the Supreme Court Chair of the Harvard Law Review. Seligman is more of an outsider than the other candidates, and it shows in his policy proposals. He’s focusing on breaking up tech monopolies and holding corporations that exploit workers and drive up housing and healthcare costs accountable, and drive up housing and healthcare costs. Affordability is one of the biggest political issues facing Coloradans, and people need elected officials who will fight for it fiercely.

For that reason, we think that Seligman’s ambition makes him the strongest candidate.

Secretary of State

Jessie Danielson v. Amanda Gonzales

The Pick: Jessie Danielson

Jessie Danielson

As the first Latina and openly queer recorder in Jefferson County, Amanda Gonzalez would certainly bring a fresh voice to the state office. However, in contrast to Danielson, her experience is underwhelming.

Amanda Gonzalez

At her nonprofit, Jessie Danielson helped develop the bills that would become voter modernization acts in Colorado. Appointed by the governor at the time, she expanded mail-in ballots and access for those with disabilities. She also helped codify abortion into Colorado law.

Her track record makes her the best option for Democrats in this race.

Congressional District 1

Diana Degette v. Wanda James v. Melat Kiros

The Pick: Melat Kiros

Melat Kiros

Diana DeGette

This district features three candidates. Diana DeGette, the incumbent, has a great track record on climate but has come under fire for tiptoeing around the war in Gaza, as well as taking corporate money. 

Wanda James

On the other hand, Wanda James built the first Black-owned dispensary in Colorado and serves on the CU Board of Regents. Her campaign focuses heavily on serving Black and Brown communities and peaceful foreign policy. She is, however, in favor of “smart, technology-driven” border security, which is linguistic cover for technologies that harvest biometrics and drive racial profiling. She has a weaker position on combating ICE and supports entrepreneurs like herself. Her withdrawal from assembly and switch to petition also signal a lack of local support.

Melat Kiros is the Democratic Socialist candidate. She is championing the types of policies that have won the mayoral election in New York and have launched Graham Platner into political stardom in Maine. She supports federally subsidizing 30% of all long-term house developments, universal childcare, an end to military aid to Israel, and a zero-emissions US grid.

Democrats who want to see the continued growth of a bolder party with a clear vision for the future should vote for Kiros.

Congressional District 8

Shannon Bird v. Evan Munsing v. Manny Rutinel

The Pick: Shannon Bird

Shannon Bird

Manny Rutinel, a rising star in the party, tore through the assembly process, garnering over 90% of the delegate vote. He is a fresh, young voice whose background as an economist for the Army Corps of Engineers promises to combat Colorado voters’ most important issue: affordability.

Manny Rutinel

Evan Munsing

Evan Munsing also has a military background. The former Marine’s bare-bones platform and lack of vision on immigration suggest that the candidate’s plans may be under-conceived.

Incumbent from the 29th District, Bird was ranked the most effective Colorado lawmaker in the ‘23-’24 term by the independent organization, Center for Effective Lawmaking. She is now running to face off the Gabe Evans, the incumbent in District 8. That effectiveness is reflected in the detailed, clear proposals Bird has made central to her campaign. Of particular note are her detailed pragmatic proposals for restraining ICE. In the same study, Rutinel was ranked 45th out of 50. Bird sponsored 104 bills in 2025, passing bills supporting affordable housing, workers’ rights, and education, among others. Bird was one of 17 subjects of an ethics complaint related to a dark-money-funded 2024 retreat connected to the Opportunity Caucus. The complaint was ultimately dismissed, however, and Bird was neither part of the caucus at the time nor did she attend the event.

Her record makes Bird the choice.

State House District 19

Jillaire McMillan v. Anil Pesaramelli v. Colton Jonjak Plahn

The Pick: Anil Pesaramelli

Anil Pesaramelli

Anil Pesaramelli has taken the traditional approach in this election; he knocked on 4,000 doors, gathering local support and listening to the community about local issues. He is an immigrant and former engineer. He has stood firm during several closely divided 4–3 Erie Town Council votes, challenging the council majority on issues including mineral rights negotiations tied to Draco, housing affordability, and support for local nonprofits and community organizations.

Colton Jonjak Plahn

Colton Jonjak Plahn was a late addition to the ballot in this district. At 25, he would be the youngest state legislator in Colorado. While his idealism and separation from political money and machinery make him an exciting voice, his limited experience weighs heavily in our consideration.

Jillaire McMillan

Jillaire McMillan, a small business owner and community leader, is no slouch either: she ran in 2024 when the incumbent dropped out with only 89 days left and only lost by 110 votes. Her experiences in legislation are limited, and while she states civic engagement, it is Pesaramelli who is hitting the streets.

Pesaramelli’s support for universal healthcare and stronger unions align him more with what the electorate in Colorado desires. McMillan has establishment endorsements without a stronghold of local support.

Pesaramelli is the pick. 

State House District 31

Gabriel Cervantes v. Jacque Phillips

The Pick: Gabriel Cervantes

Gabriel Cervantes

Gabriel Cervantes, a nonprofit cofounder, places a large emphasis on affordable housing, specifically blocking private equity and corporate entities from buying single-family homes. His campaign also promises to explore avenues to prosecute ICE agents overstepping their authority. He supports grants and tax credits for Colorado’s growing senior population, an under-discussed issue in this election. Cervantes also has an endorsement from Julie Gonzales.

Jacque Phillips

Incumbent Jacque Phillips’ platform offers no plan on immigration, vague promises on climate change, and broad references to “high-quality jobs and vocational training.” While her voting record is okay, she is an establishment, smaller-scope candidate whose vision pales beside Cervantes’ ambition.

Our choice is Gabriel Cervantes.

State House District 33

Heidi Henkel v. Kenny Nguyen

The Pick: Heidi Henkel

Heidi Henkel

Henkel has been working for Broomfield since 2007, where she was a teacher and a math tutor. She worked on the Broomfield Resettlement Task Force, helping refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan. Henkel supported Senate Bill 181, legislation born from years of advocacy that returned greater local control over oil and gas development near homes and schools. Henkel also garnered over 60% of the delegate share at assembly.

Incumbent Kenny Nguyen has worked for nonprofits as well as the lieutenant governor in recent years. However, Nguyen brings less experience and a less developed policy platform than Henkel in this district. His platform on climate and workers’ rights lacks specificity, and while his platform mentions immigration, it makes no reference to ICE.

With her focus on affordability, Democrats should be excited to see what Henkel can do in this term.

The post 2026 Colorado Primary Election Endorsements appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

Boulder, Colorado – The Community Foundation Boulder County and the Boulder Chamber are now accepting applications for their joint leadership and networking program, Leadership Fellows Boulder County. This will be the 15th Fellows cohort, and the 11th year of a merged program combining the efforts, commitments, and experiences of the Community Foundation Boulder County and Boulder Chamber.

Program Information
Leadership Fellows provides 25-30 diverse, emerging, and transformational leaders from across all sectors, industries, and county geography with a broad understanding of the topics, challenges, and solutions that are vital to the success of our communities. Topics will range from equity, inclusive leadership, community health and wellbeing, to environment, workforce and economics, house, arts, and local government.

Requirements

• Work and/or live in Boulder County
• Have a desire to make a positive impact
• Be willing to challenge yourself and others, with respect to others
• Be open to new thinking about your role as a leader
• Commit to attend monthly half-day sessions for 11 months
• Have a willingness to work collectively and be open to learning
• Demonstrate respect for peers with differing life experiences and opinions

Note: Fellows graduates are expected to take on a local leadership role within six months of graduation.

Program Costs
Tuition is $1,500 for the 11-month program, and scholarships are based upon need.

Applications for the 2023-2024 class are now being accepted, and are due on Monday, July 10th. The application form can be found here.

For more information about Leadership Fellows Boulder County please contact info@boulderchamber.com.

About Boulder Chamber
The nonprofit Boulder Chamber is the region’s flagship business advocacy and support organization. With more than 110 years of dedicated service to its members and the Boulder community, the Boulder Chamber’s innovative programs help local businesses succeed while sustaining an economy that preserves Boulder’s high quality of life, including its environmental and cultural assets. Together with its member businesses, the Boulder Chamber is building a smarter, more vibrant economy – sustaining Boulder’s position as a global capital of innovation and a thriving center of economic vitality. For more information, visit http://www.boulderchamber.com.

About Community Foundation
Community Foundation Boulder County is a catalyst for good, responding to immediate needs and anticipating future challenges. Through informed decision-making, we inspire ideas, ignite action, and mobilize resources to improve the quality of life for all. Since 1991, the Community Foundation has granted more than $100M to local nonprofits across a range of funding areas. As a trusted resource for donors and professional advisors, we provide philanthropic services and expertise to inform impactful giving.

The post Boulder Chamber and The Community Foundation Boulder County Open Leadership Fellows Boulder County Applications appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kim Wroblewski kwroblewski@beingbetterneighbors.org

Erie, Colorado (June 14, 2023) – Being Better Neighbors will host its third annual Juneteenth Celebration event on Saturday, June 17th, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The celebration will be held in Downtown Erie on Briggs Street, between Moffat and Cheesman streets.

The family friendly event, which is free and open to the public, will feature BBQ, DJ Drake, live music by Soul School, kids activities, vendors selling amazing items as well as supportive non profit organizations. 

“While the era of chattel slavery in this country may seem like a distant memory, we are not really that far removed. My paternal grandfather was born in 1899, and his parents were alive when family members could be separated through sale. It is imperative that we recognize not only the destruction caused, but the generational impact that this national stain has had on so many. We take this time to celebrate freedom and family. As it was said, “None of us are free until all of us are free!”” Board President Justin Brooks states. 

The event is organized by Being Better Neighbors, a nonprofit organization that works to embrace Erie’s growing diversity and nurture an inclusive town. 

The Being Better Neighbors Juneteenth Celebration is a great way to bring the community together while honoring the significance of Juneteenth in American history. The event presents a great opportunity to honor Black American culture through good food and music. 

For more information, please visit the Being Better Neighbors website, www.beingbetterneighbors.org.

Images from the 2022 Erie Juneteenth celebration:

The post Being Better Neighbors in Erie, Colorado to Host Third Annual Juneteenth Event appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

Moxie Moms is excited to move forward in a post-pandemic world with renewed energy and opportunities for social connection, local savings and community engagement.

Moxie Moms is proud to announce new partnerships with Ozo Coffee, Conscious Cleanse, Zeal, Yoga Pod, Chautauqua, Motherlove, Finkel and Garf, The Spot and many more.

Moxie Moms Memberships are half off through the end of January 2023.

After more than two years of paused events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Moxie Moms is moving forward with renewed energy and excitement. As a social and savings network for women in Boulder County, Moxie Mom’s Mission is to create opportunities for connection, community building, to help support the local economy, and to make a difference in the community by supporting non-profits.

Moxie Moms was created by Susan Lavelle and has been serving the Boulder County community for over 20 years. Moxie Moms currently has over 60 business partners
(moxiemoms.com/partners) and over 25 nonprofit partners (moxiemoms.com/nonprofits) who all offer exclusive discounts to Moxie Moms Members.

Since the fall of 2022, Moxie Moms has added many exciting new partners, including Ozo Coffee, Conscious Cleanse, Zeal, Yoga Pod, Chautauqua, Motherlove, Ride Colorado, Finkel and Garf, Avec la Vie, The Hearth, The Body Bar, Massage Like Butterfly, Amy Brophy Coaching, and The Spot.

The cost of membership is only $65 per year, about the cost of one latté per month! After the first year, annual renewals are $45 per year. Moxie Moms Memberships are 50% off now through the end of January 2023. Memberships can be purchased here: moxiemoms.com/product/moxie-moms-annual-membership. To receive 50% off, use code 50OFF.

In addition to the Membership Discounts, Moxie Moms Members are invited to Moxie Mom events that are designed to create opportunities for Boulder County Moms to socialize and network. These events are also geared towards supporting local Boulder County businesses and non-profits. This past fall, Moxie Moms hosted several events for members and non-members, including group hikes, group paddleboarding, and happy hours benefiting local non-profits, and offering raffle prizes form Moxie Moms Parters to attendees. Events for the first quarter of 2023 will be announced on Moxie Moms social channels and at www.moxiemoms.com.

Moxie Moms has over 80 business and non-profit partners where members can save on goods and services. Long-time partners include Colorado Athletic Club, Pharmaca/Medley, Lucky Pie, Jeff and Paige, j Lounge, Bliss Gifts and Decor, Pedestrian Shops, Rocky Mountain Paddleboard, Gateway Park Fun Center, Luke’s Circle, Sister Carmen Community Center, Thorne Nature Experience, School Food Project, Boulder Opera, Downtown Partnership and many more. A full list of partners can be found at www.moxiemoms.com.

There is no cost to Boulder County Businesses or non-profits to become part of the Moxie Moms network. Contact Susan at susan@moxiemoms.com to become a business or non-profit partner.

For questions about events or marketing, contact Amy at amy@moxiemoms.com.

The post Moxie Moms – We’re Back! appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Combating the effects of climate change is a broad effort that can take many forms locally.

When disaster strikes it can feel as if the world beneath your feet has shifted. Dust settles and things fall back into place, but nothing is the same. Scars forever mark not just the land, but the mind as well — remnants of the strength and force of the earth around us.

We know the globe is actively being altered by our actions. We know that the climate is changing at a rapid pace. We have seen the effects firsthand: not just the fire one year ago, but the floods last decade and numerous other disasters that have washed away homes, lives, businesses, and memories.

A before and after image illustrating the impact of climate change in Colorado. Courtesy of CU Boulder.

The frustration comes in part from the fact that so many of our leaders are sitting on this information. They acknowledge the climate is changing yet their actions do not reflect any sense of urgency. Everyone likes to talk the “eco-friendly” talk, but what communities are actually doing their part to mitigate the impact of climate change? Let’s highlight and celebrate the many ways that our local communities are working towards a stronger climate future.

There are numerous factors at play, everything from the obvious recycling programs and official disaster plans, but there are also the not-so-obvious: educating our youth in sustainability, ensuring homeless people have safe places to stay, and providing arts programs to express the frustration and emotion that comes from a looming crisis. It may not seem obvious, but the unpredictable weather will mean unhoused individuals will face even more daunting challenges. Studies and surveys consistently show that the younger generation feels hesitant about their future, are worried about climate change, and are hesitant to have children in part due to the climate crisis.

This changing landscape affects us all, but it is not an equal distribution of burden. Those with health or mobility issues, fewer resources, and the unhoused will all be more impacted by a changing environment. The deep irony is that individuals and nations with the most wealth are oftentimes the largest contributors to the climate crisis but will themselves be affected less by the damages caused.

Comparing how each city and town is doing is difficult to do. There is no one “winner” that is prepared beyond everyone else. Every neighborhood has areas to improve on, and every community offers a sliver of hope in their own sustainable solutions. The key is to take action where your community is lacking and celebrate the accomplishments of what has been done.

The unfortunate truth is that climate change is an international problem on a global scale, yet we feel the effects locally on a community level. Rising temperatures brought about by global polluters and massive corporations will alter ecosystems across the earth. Unfortunately, we must be the ones to prepare our home towns to lessen the impacts of these climate events.

The unfortunate truth is that climate change is an international problem on a global scale, yet we feel the effects locally on a community level.

To add insult to injury, oil and gas companies have free reign to frack where they wish in the state of Colorado. This harmful process accelerates the damage from climate change and is actually a key contributor to pollution and wildlife disruption. Possibly the most impactful way to make a change is to show up to town hall meetings in support of a fracking ban, to demand it from our officials, and to vote for candidates who refuse to take the millions of dollars these large corporations have to spend on our elections.

One way to drive change is to continue to look into the varied solutions suggested by other communities. Does your city or community have a similar program or is there a void that needs to be filled? Suggesting programs at city council meetings can be one avenue, starting a local volunteer chapter can be another. Holding officials accountable to climate action promises, making sure that cities are not just paying lip service to “going green,” and educating and spreading awareness to your peers and the younger generations are all ways to get involved that can appeal to nearly everyone.

When disaster inevitably strikes again, when helpers are needed in times of crisis, when we need to turn to the next generation for our climate solutions, what neighborhoods are leading the way?

Photo courtesy of the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless.

Homeless Services

Surviving the winter cold without a home is already a near superhuman feat that many members of our community must endure every single year. It is only going to get worse. As the national homeless population grows, more and more individuals and families will be facing the prospect of a winter without a roof. Coupled with an increasingly volatile climate, the challenge of navigating life outdoors will only become more and more difficult. Planning for a future where existing without shelter will be even more lethal than it is now and will require long-term thinking as well as immediate solutions. When disasters destroy houses, what communities are best equipped to help residents recover?

Homeless Shelters:
Boulder – 6
Lafayette – 1
Longmont – 3
Louisville – 1
Westminster – 2

City Services/Programs:

• The city of Boulder offers several services including a critical weather shelter at the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless on nights when temperatures reach dangerous levels.
• Longmont created a street outreach program called the Longmont Targeted Homeless Engagement & Referral Effort that aims to provide resources for those experiencing homelessness.
• Louisville provides a listing of over 3,000 places to find shelter, affordable housing, and transitional places to stay. Simply having a roof over your head can make all the difference in the world on the road to recovery.

Education

A sustainable future is only achievable through an educated and active population. Polls consistently show that younger people care more about climate change and see it as an existential threat to be dealt with immediately. We need future leaders to be inspired and informed about the dangers our communities are facing in a changing future. From floods to fires, those who model the changes, who provide solutions, and who lead us through the next chapter will be the youth. They will not only bear the burden of an inherited environment fraught with signs of collapse, they are also tasked with conserving plant and animal species, managing sustainable growth, and finding solutions to unforeseen problems yet to arise.

We need future leaders to be inspired and informed about the dangers our communities are facing in a changing future.

Arts & Creativity

Not everything is doom and gloom. From darkness comes light. Creativity and artistic expression are fantastic ways to let off steam, express inner emotion, and inspire others to action. Creating a new path forward will require different ways of seeing things. We need the artists, the visionaries, and those who think outside the box to be encouraged to develop their voices. Art and science will both need to play a role, working hand in hand to guide us through a changing planet.

Mental Health Services

Recovering from a life-altering disaster can take more than just rebuilding. Losing your home in a fire, flood, or other natural disaster can be one of the most tragic events in life. The collective trauma experienced by our communities last year is punctuated by the individual trauma of possessions lost, homes destroyed, and lives uprooted. We will need mental health services for acute loss as well as long-term support for everyone recovering. Mental health, therapy, and wellness programs can benefit anyone but are especially helpful for those in marginalized communities of all kinds.

Healthcare Services

The unfortunate reality is that the impact of natural disasters can often be measured in human loss. Although the impact of property damage and the loss of one’s home are completely devastating, the dire truth is more of us will be in need of medical care following weather events. Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of future disasters. The warming environment can absorb more energy, meaning storms will be stronger and potentially more lethal. Communities will need robust healthcare services capable of handling all types of injuries.

Hospitals:
Boulder (not including branches) – 2
Carbon Valley (Frederick, Firestone, Dacono) – 2
Lafayette – 1
Longmont – 3
Louisville – 1
Superior – 1
Thornton – 3
Westminster – 4

The unfortunate reality is that the impact of natural disasters can often be measured in human loss.

Disaster Preparedness

Community effort is needed to prepare any city for natural disaster. From diligent homeowners clearing their brush to the local city inspector checking for code violations to the countywide disaster plans once tragedy strikes, there are numerous ways a neighborhood can prepare for and help mitigate damage from wildfires, floods, wind events, and other storms.

Destruction left by the Marshall Fire. Photo courtesy of Dan Bruder.

Rebuilding

Unless you have previous construction experience, the rebuilding process can be convoluted and fraught with red tape. The permitting process can seem unnecessarily complicated and move as slow as molasses at times. Finding a licensed, experienced, and reliable contractor is another can of worms. Then the actual construction begins. It is a stark reminder to have adequate insurance and be aware of the risk of natural disaster. Now that recovery has begun, what communities are doing the most to help their residents rebuild from the Marshall Fire?

Affordable Housing

Sometimes rebuilding is not feasible. Sometimes it is best to move on. There is no one answer to everyone affected by disaster. Every individual and family will need to come to their own best solution.  For those who choose to move to a new location, cost can often be the prohibitive factor. Insurance can help, but we know that too many homeowners were under-insured and face massive costs after the Marshall Fire. The cost of rebuilding and recovering, plus the stress of navigating an insurance company that probably is not covering everything you need can be daunting. Finding an affordable place to live in a new community can be the beginning to the end of your stresses, or it can be another nightmare of its own.

Non-Profit Organizations

Shifting our society away from a carbon-based fuel system driven by for-profit corporations is a monumental task. The largest entities are often the largest polluters. Help support the local non-profits that make the world just that much better by doing their important and varied work. If you have the time, get involved and make a donation out of your time. If not, they always appreciate a monetary contribution for their efforts as well. Either way, let’s make a difference.

Number of Non-Profit Organizations:
Boulder – 5,402
Erie – 5,882
Lafayette – 5,864
Longmont – 5,100
Louisville – 5,890
Lyons – 5,447
Niwot – 5,067
Superior – 5,452
Thornton – 5,199
Westminster – 5504

Local Farming

Sustainability comes in many forms, but some of the impactful ways to move towards a greener future is to grow your own food, or at least support those that do. Transporting food across the globe uses massive amounts of fossil fuels. Climate crises will make it more difficult to grow certain crops and nearly ensures that some yields will fail. Farming locally creates a stalwart community more resilient to global uncertainty and more connected to the earth locally.

Boulder County Farm Data:
Over 1,000 Farms in Boulder County
13,000 Acres of Irrigated Crops
3,000 Acres of Dryland Crops
90% of all crops end up in our food system

The post Let’s Celebrate What Local Neighborhoods Are Doing to Help Adapt to Climate Change appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

As the New Year kicks into gear, one of our resolutions is to continue making as much an impact in our communities as possible, and we hope you’re of the same mind. Here are three vetted organizations we think you should consider as you plan out your donations for 2023.

Courtesy of the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center

National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center 

Women from Indigenous peoples on this continent make up the most vulnerable population, bar none. They are two to three times more likely than women of any other race to experience violence, stalking, or sexual assault, according to the Justice Department. It’s not even close.

• A recent study by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) found that more than four in five American Indian and Alaska Native women (84.3%) have experienced violence in their lifetime, including 56.1% who have experienced sexual violence.
• In JUST the year leading up to the study, 39.8% of American Indian and Alaska Native women had experienced violence, including 14.4% who had experienced sexual violence.
• Overall, more than 1.5 million American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime.
• According to the Center for Disease Control, the murder rate is 10 times higher than the national average for women living on reservations, and murder is the third leading cause of death for Native women. Additionally, this group was significantly more likely to experience a rape in their lifetimes compared to other women.

The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center provides “…national leadership to end violence against American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian women by supporting culturally grounded, grassroots advocacy.” Donate here: niwrc.org/donate 

Courtesy of Foster Source

Foster Source

Today, there are nearly 4,000 children living in the foster care system in Colorado. One of the biggest challenges is finding foster homes to support them — nearly 70% of foster parents quit fostering in the first year.

Foster Source, based in Thornton, is working to change that. Foster Source is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering trauma education, relief services and therapeutic services to foster and kinship families throughout Colorado. Donate here: FosterSource.org/donate

Courtesy of the American Indian Academy of Denver

American Indian Academy of Denver 

Starting in 1869 and continuing into the 1960s, hundreds of thousands of children of First Nations tribes in the United States and Canada were taken from their families and placed in church- and government-run boarding schools. This destroyed families and stripped entire generations of their culture, not to mention the unconscionable number of deaths of children — into the thousands —  that occurred under the so-called “care” of these “boarding schools,” according to reports released this year by the Department of the Interior.

The American Indian Academy of Denver is a Denver Public Schools charter school that’s on the edge of being shut down by the DPS due to funding cuts. It’s a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) school that provides rigorous learning opportunities for students in the sixth through tenth grades. AIAD is a community of families and educators where all students are supported holistically, secure in their cultural identity, empowered to become community leaders, and prepared to excel in life. Donate here: aiadschool.org

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Taking on the most important issues facing our country

From left to right: Tom Mauser, Eileen McCarron, Tim Rakow, Lark Rambo, Gina, Maione-Earles, Cathryn Folkestad, Peter Hoy. Photo by Paul Wedlake

For our penultimate installment in our monthly “Heroes” series, we look to our nonprofits. The year’s end brings a time to reflect: This year has been a daunting one. Massive issues have risen before us like great and terrible mountains, nearly unfathomable in their scale. Innocent people continue to die senselessly to gun violence. A war on women and those able to give birth has been declared. People are still hungry. Rent is going up leading to an increase in homelessness. These are some of the most important yet daunting issues our country, our species, has ever faced. Our nonprofits are the ones that stare down the darkness without flinching. They understand the pain, the fear, the anger that arises from such heavy topics. Yet, they fight on because they know that someone has to, that nothing will change without direct action.

I spoke with representatives from six very different organizations. In spite of the very powerful issues they deal with everyday, each person I spoke with was tender and sincere, their compassion flowing from them like rivers, the kind that, with enough patience and determination, can erode mountains.

I had the opportunity to speak with Tom Mauser and Eileen McCarron of Colorado Ceasefire, the longest-serving grassroots gun violence prevention organization in Colorado. They seek to reduce gun violence through legislation, outreach, and education. Mauser has a tragically personal connection to the issue. He is the father of Daniel Mauser, one of the 13 victims in the Columbine High School shooting that took place in 1999. Mauser speaks about this plainly, the sorrow in his voice tinged with conviction. He told me that his work with Colorado Ceasefire is “how [he] honor[s] his son.” With a background in lobbying, he pivoted to the fight against gun violence in the wake of the tragedy. He highlighted the fact that the conversation against gun violence has been extremely politicized to such an extreme degree that it impedes progress, saying that both sides of the aisle must work together or else innocent citizens will continue to die. He said, “Society and the media too often makes this a pro-gun/anti-gun issue. We’re not anti-gun. We’re anti-gun violence.” Mauser now speaks to the public as the self-described “face of the organization.” He hopes in doing so, in sharing his story, he can touch the hearts of those out there and remind the gun lobby of the brutal toll their inaction continues to take.

“Society and the media too often makes this a pro-gun/anti-gun issue. We’re not anti-gun. We’re anti-gun violence.”

While McCarron hasn’t been affected by gun violence in such a directly personal manner as Mauser, she has been fighting against it since before the Columbine tragedy. Shortly after Columbine, Colorado became something of a hub for the fight, and McCarron wanted to go where she could make the biggest impact. She moved the work against gun violence she’d already been doing in Texas to this state and has been fighting the good fight ever since, beginning with a now-defunct organization called Safe Colorado. Throughout our conversation, she made an incredibly interesting point that also made me quite sad for the people dedicating their lives to the issue: If they are successful, the general public won’t hear about it. Laws can reduce gun violence, which in turn, will reduce reported incidents. We will stop seeing yet another shooting, more dead kids on the news nearly every night, and that is what victory looks like, even if those who worked to achieve it might never quite get the recognition they deserve.

Gina Maione Earles is the executive director of Blue Sky Bridge, an organization dedicated to child abuse intervention and education. Celebrating her 10th year with the organization, Maione Earles breathed passion with each word she spoke. She spoke to me about how Blue Sky Bridge’s main goal is to help these kids come to terms with what has happened to them, empowering them to do what is necessary to move beyond it and live healthy lives. She said, “If [kids] do experience [sexual abuse], they are incredibly resilient, and they have an opportunity to heal and move forward and live their full potential in life. The problem is that most children who experience physical and sexual abuse do not disclose the abuse until they’re adults, if ever. It’s only about 10% of kids that experienced sexual abuse that actually say so.” She went on to say, “Our job here at Blue Sky Bridge is really profound. It’s not just to help kids to stop experiencing abuse, and it’s not just to help prevent this from happening in the first place, though we do a lot of things about that as well. It’s helping these kids tell their story, talk about their experience, move through that process, move on to healing, get the help and recovery they need to reduce their post traumatic symptoms.”

“Our job here at Blue Sky Bridge is really profound. It’s not just to help kids to stop experiencing abuse, and it’s not just to help prevent this from happening in the first place, though we do a lot of things about that as well. It’s helping these kids tell their story, talk about their experience, move through that process, move on to healing, get the help and recovery they need to reduce their post traumatic symptoms.”

Native American Rights Fund is the largest and most visible Indian law firm in the country. Founded in 1970 by John Echohawk, NARF provides legal counsel to Native American individuals, groups, and tribes. Deputy Director Matthew Campbell spoke to me with candor and intelligence, his voice clear and resilient. Many of the issues NARF deals with are not new. Campbell spoke about the importance of the organization and what it is like facing the daunting weight of history saying, “The reason the work is so important is because of the unique history and the unique legal relationship between the United States and tribal nations. There are hundreds of treaties that the United States signed with tribal nations. There is an entire chapter of the United States Code dedicated to Indian law and Native issues. For Native people, it really is one of the most heavily legal-based and regulated fields in the United States, and so much of who we are is tied up into that history and that relationship.” He went on to say, “We’ve worked here at NARF to fight to uphold the treaties, uphold access to sacred places and a right to be able to have religious freedom, to be able to vote in state and federal elections. It’s critical that NARF is here to be able to provide that type of resource for tribal nations and individuals that don’t have the capacity or the resources to afford a private attorney.”

“The reason the work is so important is because of the unique history and the unique legal relationship between the United States and tribal nations. There are hundreds of treaties that the United States signed with tribal nations. There is an entire chapter of the United States Code dedicated to Indian law and Native issues. For Native people, it really is one of the most heavily legal-based and regulated fields in the United States, and so much of who we are is tied up into that history and that relationship.”

I next spoke with Cathryn Folkestad and Peter Hoy, operations director and senior program manager for Conscious Alliance, respectively. These are two deeply passionate and vibrant people, quick with a joke and willing to let their laughter ring loud, yet utterly serious when it comes to their work and the impact they make. Conscious Alliance is an organization dedicated to using art to feed communities that don’t have ready access to food. This includes communities like Pine Ridge Native American Reservation, underprivileged schools, and areas in Boulder County devastated by the Marshall Fire. In addition to partnering with a variety of food makers and distributors, they partner with musicians and artists to run food drives at venues such as Red Rocks, Mission Ballroom, Fox Theater, and hundreds of others across the country. Hoy spoke to the importance of cooperation between organizations in order to accomplish their goals, especially when operating on such a large scale. He said, “We work with any and all food brands that want to work with us. Let’s get food out together. Our No. 1 mission is to feed kids. Same thing goes with food pantries, food banks, and food distribution centers. We’re trying to support as many organizations as we can.” He went on to stress the importance of partners who work within the communities they serve, especially when nearing the holiday season. He said, “We know that we can come and execute a great meal giveaway, but it’s really the partners on the ground that can drive the traffic of people to come there and find the folks that need a hot meal for Thanksgiving and get them out to the site.”

“We work with any and all food brands that want to work with us. Let’s get food out together. Our No. 1 mission is to feed kids. Same thing goes with food pantries, food banks, and food distribution centers. We’re trying to support as many organizations as we can.”

In addition to working with a vast network of partners throughout the country, Folkestad spoke to a smaller but no less important aspect of her and the organization’s work — kindling the little sparks that light fires in the hearts of the young and helping them realize that they can affect this world in a positive way. She said, “We can inspire these people to do something beyond themselves and help these people that are going to the shows realize that they can make an impact on the lives of people in need. We can help them open their minds to the world and their ability to give back and support their communities.”

The Inn Between addresses one of Boulder County’s most compelling and discussed issues: providing affordable housing for the ever-growing unhoused population. I spoke with executive director Tim Rakow, a kind and funny man that understands that, while involvement in nonprofit work begins ideologically, issues must be approached with logic and realism in order to actually accomplish anything. He explained that The Inn Between isn’t merely a place to stay but a program designed to get the unhoused off the streets and employed — and remain that way. As such, residents in their communities must adhere to a certain degree of decorum. They must take the opportunity seriously as there are many others who would gladly take their place. In setting these guidelines, they are able to focus on actual work with a great many other organizations to accomplish their goals. He also described the three focuses of The Inn Between’s work as being “first and foremost, safe support or affordable housing.” He then said, “case management, meaning life skills training — essentially areas for growth.” The third he mentioned was “education and career development to really key in on those who have that potential to move into a different career.”

The Inn Between isn’t merely a place to stay but a program designed to get the unhoused off the streets and employed — and remain that way.

Speaking with Lark Rambo, executive director of Coal Creek Meals on Wheels, through Zoom was interesting in that she radiated such kindness that it felt akin to a warm sunbeam shining through a window on a cold day. Meals on Wheels is a national organization that delivers food to the homes of those who can no longer acquire it without assistance due to disability, lack of transportation, and other factors. Rambo, who told me that she’s “always worked in the nonprofit space,” spoke about how they don’t just provide food to their clients but also, many times, a sort of companion, a way to remind people what being a part of the world is like. She said, “We’re also helping to combat isolation. During the pandemic, that was a huge part of it. Folks were so isolated, especially those that lack transportation and mobility. That’s the biggest part of our program, in addition to getting those meals in the home, making sure that they feel connected to their community.”

“We’re also helping to combat isolation. During the pandemic, that was a huge part of it. Folks were so isolated, especially those that lack transportation and mobility. That’s the biggest part of our program, in addition to getting those meals in the home, making sure that they feel connected to their community.”

Each of these lovely, hard-eyed, yet soft-hearted people are working to better this world. They embody the drive, the dedication, the teeth-gritting, muscle-straining, heart-rending determination it takes to affect real change in our communities and our world as a whole. Let’s hear it for them.

From left to right: Gina Maione-Earles, Lark Rambo, Tim Rakow, Cathryn Folkestad, Peter Hoy, Eileen McCarron. Photo by Paul Wedlake

The post The Heroes: Nonprofits appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Legislation would distribute $35 million from the transformative Economic Recovery and Relief Funds to support nonprofits serving communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic

DENVER, CO –  The House Transportation & Local Government Committee today passed a bill that would boost funding for community-based nonprofit social service organizations, specifically those that provide critical support to communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic.

Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

“During the pandemic, our nonprofits went above and beyond to provide necessary resources and services to their communities, it’s time they receive extra support,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “This bill directs $35 million in pandemic recovery funds to our nonprofits so they can continue to positively impact our neighbors and build stronger communities. We’re thankful for our nonprofits and we’re proud to provide them with support to keep their doors open and serve our communities in need.”

“Nonprofits are at the heart of nearly every community, but many of them are struggling to stay afloat,” said Rep. Edie Hooton, D-Boulder. “Our legislation invests in local nonprofits, many of which stepped up to provide food service, youth resources and COVID emergency information, during the pandemic. When the world came to a halt, Colorado’s nonprofits worked tirelessly to meet the needs of their community and I’m proud to sponsor legislation that supports their efforts.”

HB22-1356, sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and Edie Hooton, will provide $35 million in federal pandemic relief funds to nonprofit social service organizations that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Small community-based nonprofits have played an important role in delivering critical services to families and communities that were directly impacted by the pandemic. These organizations continue to fill critical gaps, but face significant challenges as they respond to longstanding community needs that were only exacerbated by the pandemic. HB22-1356 passed committee by a vote of 10-3.

Financial constraints often limit these organizations’ ability to serve additional Coloradans and those constraints are more challenging under recent economic conditions.

The grants are designed to support small community-based nonprofits that largely serve individuals who were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and experienced significant financial pressures. Eligible entities will be able to apply for grants as large as $100,000 to expand program capacity, foster professional development for employees or engage in strategic planning to grow their organization and maximize the use of funds.

During the 2021 legislative session, the General Assembly set aside $700 million in federal pandemic relief funds to use for economic recovery and relief initiatives in the years ahead. This legislation uses $35 million of this funding to support essential organizations that are doing critical work in Colorado communities to help families recover from the pandemic.

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Editor’s Note: Press Releases are provided to Yellow Scene. In an effort to keep our community informed, we publish some press releases in whole.

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In conducting research for this article, I noticed a consistent theme: in these times of extremity and even crisis, our community chose to ask, not “how can I survive,” but, “what can I give?”

The people and organizations you’ll meet in this article show just such a generosity of spirit. Over the past difficult year they have been working tirelessly to help those in need, even as their own backs are against the wall.

Louisville Rising

louisvillerising.org

Since being founded in response to the pandemic, Louisville Rising has helped innumerable non-profits in the area make ends
meet by providing funding for them. Founder Gillian Millar was an event planner before the pandemic hit. As the pandemic became more severe,she realized there was a much deeper need springing up in the community. She said, “I’m not one to sit on my hands and feel sorry for myself. I had to do something to get community engagement and spirits back up.”

She’s very excited to announce the next big event, Miracle on Main Street, a pop-up Christmas bar. 100% of the proceeds will go back into helping local non-profits.

“We need fun right now,” Gillian said, “which is why we focus on creating fundraising events that are fun and also safe.”

“It’s not just raising money,” she added. “It’s more than that. It’s people.”

Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

Greenwoodwildlife.org

Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center rehabilitates wildlife that has been orphaned, injured, or become sick. Founded in 1982, they treat thousands of animals every year.

This organization certainly affected Thomas Edgecomb Boothe. Days after being evacuated from their Boulder home, Thomas and his wife Janet drove back up the mountain to gather their belongings and winterize their home against the incomprehensible blizzard that had stormed in since they left.

After gathering their belongings, the couple had ten minutes to spare. They decided to check on the neighbor’s chickens. “Walking up to the coop we saw a bird under the stairway,” Thomas said. “We assumed it was a chicken out in the snow. Then I looked downand did a double take. It had a green beak, long neck, and red eyes. It was frozen to the ground, struggling, but it couldn’t move an inch.”

One of Thomas’s friends ran a raptor rescue program and suggested that they bring the mysterious bird to Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. After putting it in a box, the two of them, bird-in-tow, embarked on a treacherous drive. “This was a Sunday. There was a blizzard, but we just went for it,”

Thomas recalled. “The road was horrible. Accidents all the way there. Then through the snow we saw a light. I grabbed the bird and walked up to the door. The workers were waiting there. They welcomed us with open arms.” The couple discovered that the bird was a Western Grebe – a stressed species that, once on the ground, cannot fly again without being rescued. “Once they’re grounded they can’t fly,” Thomas said emphatically. “The only thing that can rescue them is a human.”

The grebe, under the attentive care of the staff at Greenwood, made a full recovery and was released back out in the wild.

Green up our Schools

Greenupourschools.org

Anthony Hodes is the director of Green Up Our Schools, a nonprofit that helps students learn to be responsible environmental stewards. Students work together to build peer-to-peer collaboration skills while designing and implementing waste diversion projects.

“These kids are super enthusiastic; they just get it.” Anthony noted. “And right now the work is especially important. Schools are individualizing school lunch experiences, which is creating a lot more waste, and the kids are asking, ‘what can we do?’ ”

“It’s about being empathetic to humanity,” he added, “one kid at a time.”

Last Mile Education Fund

lastmile-ed.org

Our students live on a Razor’s Edge of Insecurity,” said Ruthe Farmer, founder of Last Mile Education Fund, a non-profit dedicated to providing support for young people with aspirations in tech industries. She got the idea for Last Mile Education Fund in 2013 when she helped a student who almost turned down a high-paying internship because she couldn’t afford bus fare. The two of them founded this nonprofit to “invest in students in high-demand fields.”

“Our scholarship system is broken,” Ruthe said. “Everyone wants to find the best of the best. Meanwhile there are capable, qualified, underrepresented kids that get nothing because they’re not some superhero outlier.”

Ruthe recalled a story of a young woman who was impacted by the non-profit. “She was a Black woman, a senior in computer science,” Ruthe said. “She was eating at a food bank and facing homelessness. We paid her tuition and rent and she graduated. She took a job with Microsoft in August. I just got an email from her. She wanted to know how to donate to our fund.”

“Basic needs should not be a privilege. Ruthe stated firmly. “Education was built to invest in citizens. We see their potential and we see the value of investing in them.”

YMCA of Northern Colorado

ymcanoco.org

Chris Coker is concerned about all of the people who depend on the Y’s services. He stated, “People don’t realize this, but we are the largest provider of childcare in the US. Families we work with are saying, ‘If I don’t work and have my kids taken care of, I don’t pay rent.’”

The financial future is looking grim for our local Y. Right now it’s sustaining a quarter million in losses every month. As the CEO, Chris noted that, “the right business decision is to shut down until this is over, but we can’t. Where do these kids go then?” He went on, “When non-profits say they need stuff, it’s because our community needs stuff.”

Even with the pandemic, the Y is adapting to meet the needs of children and families. “One of the things that we’ve done is roll out a whole new childcare framework that uses social-emotional learning. Thirty-two lessons about empathy, caring, and anti-bullying,” Chris said.

He ended by saying, “This Y is 140 years old. Think about what it’s survived! But COVID could take it down. The community needs to say this is important.”

350 Boulder

350colorado.org/bouldercounty

Julia Williams is the Development and Communications Director at 350 Boulder, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people find meaningful ways to take action on the climate crisis. 350 Boulder certainly impacted Leslie Weise, a volunteer and board member who first found the organization when she discovered unwelcome news.

“One of the largest frack sites in Colorado was proposed to be built less than 2 miles from our home,” she recalled. “Once I made it clear this was an issue really important to me and my family, 350 Boulder was able to connect and amplify the voices of people who would be affected by this.”

350 Boulder is focused on the environment, but for Julia Williams, it’s much more. She said, “we’re waking up to the intersectionality of issues. It’s about uniting movements together, about balance, and about reflecting on how to interact with the world and interact with yourself in a way that benefits society.

Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA)

movingtoendsexualassault.org

Janine D’Anniballe is the Director of MESA, the only sexual violence resource center in Boulder County. MESA provides services and support to anyone in the community who has experienced sexual violence.

While MESA works with individuals to heal from trauma, their other goal is to eradicate sexual assault by rooting out its systemic causes. Janine stated, “we help people work through trauma, but there’s also a justice and systems piece to address these inherent abuses of power.

The pandemic has generated an uptick in the need for MESA’s services. Janine noted, “this whole COVID thing is called ‘safe at home.’  But safe at home for whom? Home isn’t safe if you’re stuck with an abuser.”

To respond to the increasing needs in the community, MESA has recently rolled out a text feature. Put simply, Janine said, “We want to be there for people so that we can begin to heal.”

Ralston House

Ralstonhouse.org

Courtney Teasdale is on the board of Ralston House, an advocacy center for children who have witnessed or been the victims of violent crime., “The need for our services is higher.” Courtney explained.“At the same time, all of the fundraising events and things we’ve done historically have had to be cancelled.”

Ralston House has been adapting to the new COVID regulations while also providing a safe and nurturing environment for kids up to the age of 18. Courtney noted, “we’ve started doing forensic interviews virtually while still in-house.” Their biggest goal is to help kids give only one testimony of their experiences in a safe and nurturing environment to reduce the chance of retraumatization.

When asked what drives her, Courtney responded, “The innocent. Giving them a voice when they can’t speak for themselves has really been my passion.”

Coal Creek Meals on Wheels

CoalcreekMOW.org

“We serve anyone who needs meal delivery,” said Lark Rambo, Executive Director of Coal Creek Meals on Wheels. “It’s not just seniors. We serve people who have lost their jobs temporarily, people with disabilities, people relying on school lunch. We also have a program where people coming home from a hospital get five free meals while they recover.”

Lark recalled a family that they helped recently. “The husband had COVID and lost his job. Then his wife got COVID. They had a child at home and zero income coming in. They couldn’t be in public, and couldn’t pay for food delivery. They just needed support for a couple of weeks to get by. When people are already on the verge of hardship, COVID can push them over the edge. Sometimes, you just need to eat for a couple of weeks.” Lark said.

When asked if there was anything she wanted to add, Lark laughed and said, “Yeah, something people don’t realize is that the food is actually really good! We make all of our food from scratch. Even [the] salad dressing is homemade. All meals are made from scratch and cater to any dietary restrictions. You name it, we can accommodate.”

Project V.E.T.S.

projectvets.org

Project V.E.T.S. sends supplies, and equipment all over the world to help people improve the lives of animals. While working internationally as a veterinarian, Candy Brad, founder of Project V.E.T.S., met people all over the world who were working to save animals. “Vets never throw anything away,” she explained. “Every time I got a new machine I would store the old one. So I had a closet of state-of-the-art equipment that I would never use again.”

She realized that, “these people all over the world had the skills. They didn’t need my skills. They needed my stuff.”

Project V.E.T.S. sends resources, supplies, and equipment all over the world to help people improve the lives of animals. But, for Candy, it’s not just animals that are being helped. “There’s a lot of people that don’t see that everything affects us,” she said. “We’re all intertwined. If you don’t have a healthy environment you’re not going to have a healthy community or animals. We all want the same things. If we recognize ourselves in every being we can improve the planet. We’re healing the planet one animal at a time.”

Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners (RMCP)

rmcrisispartners.org

Tif Choate, artist and founder of Snaiil Candy Art, is on a mission to give back. Specifically, Choate paints murals to fundraise for local nonprofits. Her most recent mural was for Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners, a suicide-prevention organization dedicated to helping people in crisis get the immediate and ongoing help that they need.

She said, “I wanted to help RMCP because someone in my life is struggling with suicide. So many people like my friend who have no idea how to manage their feelings about hopelessness. There aren’t many real, credible resources for someone who is really struggling. The staff at RMCP are working so hard. So many people need support because of the state of our world. So it was really important to me to say, ‘Hey. We need to turn it around and give them some support too.’”

Learn more about Tif’s work at
www.SnaiilCandy.com

The Savory Institute

savory.global

Many residents are unaware that we have a powerful environmental institution right in our own backyard. The Savory Institute is dedicated to educating farmers and ranchers on the necessity of holistic land management.

“While our headquarters is in Boulder, we work globally,” said Bobby Gill, the Director of Development and Communications. “We have forty-eight learning hubs around the world that equip ranchers and farmers to improve grazing and regenerate grasslands. Since starting the institution, we’ve influenced the management of thirty-two million acres, training over 12,000 people through our global network.”

While their scope is global, the impact of holistic, regenerative land management has implications right here in our community. “We don’t focus on wildfires, but it’s another symptom of improper land management,” Bobby said. When asked what we can do to make an impact, Bobby suggested, “start asking where your food comes from. Start supporting brands that are dedicated to regenerative agriculture. If we focus on what we have the capacity to influence and change, there’s a lot of hope.”

Humanity’s Team

humanitysteam.org

Humanity’s Team is dedicated to raising the consciousness of humanity through education. They are especially focused on conscious business practices.

Steve Farrell, founder, found himself in an interesting predicament. After selling a successful tech company in the 1990’s, he achieved a comfortable level of wealth. “My big realization was that the whole American Dream thing of creating financial prosperity was a kids game.” Farrell said. “So my heart led me in this direction of creating Humanity’s Team. We want to be in service. We want to create a sustainable planet.”

In October, Humanity’s Team launched a worldwide virtual summit that reached over 200K people. Steve recalled, “The program went deep.. ”

Steve added, “We’re being guided into that place of connection. We need to stay strong and follow that guidance. Don’t question yourself. You’ll come into really the most amazing life, I promise.”

Muse Performance Space

museperformancespace.com

Musicians have had to be especially adaptable in these times. Clare Church, founder of Muse Performance Space in Lafayette, knows firsthand what that’s like. After a lifetime of performing as a saxophonist, Clare developed a neurological disorder that affected her tongue, face, jaw, and neck. In response, she founded the Muse Performance Space to give local musicians a space to play and share their gifts.
Clare knows how powerful music is for bringing people together. She wanted to make sure Muse was still supporting musicians even in the pandemic. She said, “so many musicians lost all of their income and places to play. So we started live streaming as our main format. We give 70% of donations to musicians. Muse is entirely donation based.”
More than that, Clare wanted to maintain a sense of community, even as restrictions made it harder to gather. “We want it to feel like you’re coming into our living room. If you’re here, if you’re listening, you’re our guest. If you can give, you can, and if you can’t, that’s ok. We’re going to keep putting the music out there.”
Musicians have had to be especially adaptable in these times. Clare Church, founder of Muse Performance Space in Lafayette, knows firsthand what that’s like. After a lifetime of performing as a saxophonist, Clare developed a neurological disorder that affected her tongue, face, jaw, and neck. In response, she founded the Muse Performance Space to give local musicians a space to play and share their gifts.

Clare knows how powerful music is for bringing people together. She wanted to make sure Muse was still supporting musicians even in the pandemic. She said, “so many musicians lost all of their income and places to play. So we started live streaming as our main format. We give 70% of donations to musicians. Muse is entirely donation based.”

More than that, Clare wanted to maintain a sense of community, even as restrictions made it harder to gather. “We want it to feel like you’re coming into our living room. If you’re here, if you’re listening, you’re our guest. If you can give, you can, and if you can’t, that’s ok. We’re going to keep putting the music out there.”

Sister Carmen

sistercarmen.org

Sister Carmen meets the basic needs of people who are struggling. From money to food to household items to education, this non-profit is committed to creating a safe, welcoming space of unconditional giving.

Jenny Barger spoke to the way her life was changed by Sister Carmen.

“Thirteen years ago I was jobless and homeless,” Jenny said. “After I landed at Sister Carmen, I obtained employment and bought a home. I want people to understand that Sister Carmen gives people hope. I’m a prime example of that.” She added, “Sister Carmen gives people hope. I want everyone to know you can pull yourself up and out of even the darkest place.”

“When the pandemic started everybody panicked at first.” Jenny recalled. “I looked at my boss and I said, ‘What’s going to happen?’ We rely on our community for our donations so that we can keep the food bank running and help people with bills and rent. Lo and behold, we had donations. We had a family in Lafayette offer to donate $50,000, but they were asking the community to match it. And the community did. A second family did the same thing, and the community matched that. We are a blessing to the community, and the community is a blessing to us.”

The people and organizations featured in this article are just a few incredible examples of generosity, courage, and heart that we have everywhere in our community. During this holiday season, let’s take a moment of gratitude for the kindness, support, and dedication of our neighbors. If you’re wondering where and how to give your own resources, start here. I promise your own gift will be amplified and reflected back to you in the lives of those you’ve served.

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Being a philanthropist can be an expensive venture. But charity isn’t always about big checks or canned soup or bake sales. In fact, it means different things for different people and different organizations. Proving that anyone can help drive the greater good, 20 different local nonprofits let you know how you can help lend a hand this holiday season—from wigs to pies and more.

Adopt a family…
The “I Have A Dream” Foundation focuses on drop-out prevention for low-income youth, boasting a 90 percent graduation rate through their program. The Foundation’s adopt-a-family holiday gift-giving program is in full swing, with individuals and businesses providing a holiday for families that would otherwise go without. For information on how to adopt a family or make other donations, call 303.444.3636 or go to ihadboulder.org.

Donate cat food…
The Longmont Humane Society and the Humane Society of Boulder Valley are private, nonprofit organizations dedicated to providing temporary shelter to thousands of animals every year. Their wish lists are always changing, but at this printing, most urgently needed items included canned kitten and cat food, blankets, towels, dog beds and cat toys. For Longmont, call 303.772.1232 or visit longmonthumane.org. For Boulder Valley, call 303.442.4030 or visit boulderhumane.org.

Send a senior to a play…
The Circle of Care Project provides accessibility to the arts, education and community to Boulder County seniors. Apart from volunteer hours and monetary gifts, they always accept tickets to cultural, educational and performing arts events for use by their seniors. For information, call 303.358.4300 or visit circleofcareproject.org.

Build muscle…
Why pay for a gym membership? Get your reps while doing good: Community Food Share is in need of strong volunteers who can lift boxes of food. In addition to food donations, volunteers are always needed to sort donations, restock shelves and prepare food bags for clients. For information on how to volunteer, call 303.652.3663 or visit communityfoodshare.org.

Win a tree…
Boulder County Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals to residents who need the service, regardless of age or income. One of their most important fundraising events of the year is the Annual Festival of Trees, taking place on Dec. 6 at noon. Gorgeously decorated trees will be raffled off while patrons enjoy a holiday buffet and silent auction. Call 303.441.3908 or visit mowboulder.org for details.

Mud a wall…
Flatirons Habitat for Humanity knows that sometimes it’s the little things that mean the most. Whether you can donate time to help build a house, money to sponsor a build or just a few odds and ends you no longer need around the house, every little bit helps. Call 303.447.3787 or visit flatironshabitat.org.

Donate some ink…
The Center for Safe Schools and Communities offers programs that teach children skills for success and families strategies to avoid child abuse. Their biggest need is for sponsors who can help them out with ink cartridges, printing costs and advertising costs. They’re also gearing up for their first ever “Do The Right Thing” family event in April and need assistance with advertising and sponsors. Call 303.828.9733 or go to centerforsafeschools.org.

Learn CPR…
The Longmont Emergency Unit is an all-volunteer emergency rescue group specializing in many areas of rescue including first aid, extrication, dive rescue, swift water rescue and low and steep angle rope rescue. They are actively recruiting volunteers. Call 303.776.6180 or visit leu-rescue.org.

Send Band-Aids…
Clinica Family Health Services strives to be the medical and dental care provider of choice for low-income and other underserved people in our area. Clinica always needs gifts of time, talent, medical supplies and money, but they are currently in the midst of a capital campaign to raise funds to renovate a new building that has been donated. If you can help, please call 303.665.2962 or visit clinica.org.

Lend an Ear…
The Mental Health Center Serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties has served those with a mental disorder for more than 40 years. Their ongoing need for volunteers is to increase the range and quality of their services and provides a connection to the community. Call 303.413.6351 or visit mhcbbc.org.

Shop for socks…
Attention Homes provides residential treatment, counseling and safe shelter for at-risk youth. Their ongoing wish list includes socks and underwear for boys and girls, hygiene products and small gifts that can be used for incentives, including $10–$25 gift certificates to stores (i.e. Target), mp3 players, iTunes gift cards and tickets to events. Call 303.447.1206 to help or visit attentionhomes.org.

Use your Platinum Status…
The Global Education Fund works to improve the lives of orphans and other vulnerable children around the world through education, building libraries, providing leadership programs and supplying textbooks. They can turn your unwanted frequent flyer miles into support for a child hungry for an education. Call 303.415.9935 to find out how or visit globaleducationfund.org.

Collect mittens…
Each year, the Foothills United Way hosts their annual Socks and Mittens Drive, providing much-needed items that are distributed to local organizations to help children and adults in need in our community. In 2008, the drive collected 2,392 pairs of socks and mittens—a lot of warm fingers and toes. Call 303.444.4013 or visit unitedwayfoothills.org.

Give a wig…
As part of their mission to advocate for and support those affected by cancer, the American Cancer Society Great West Division provides wigs, hats and scarves to all cancer patients free of charge and appreciates all donations made by the community. To donate call 720.524.5400 or visit cancer.org.

Give warmth…
The mission of the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless is to provide support services for homeless adults in our community. The shelter accepts unwrapped gifts for its residents including long underwear and other winter items, sleeping bags, bus passes, backpacks, jackets and boots. For a full wish list, call 303.442.4646 or visit bouldershelter.org.

See a show…
The best way to support the Dairy Center for the Arts is to buy tickets—that’s not a hardship when the center provides such diverse opportunities to create and participate in world-class performing arts experiences. Call 303.440.7826 or visit thedairy.org.

Recycle a bike…
Community Cycles provides recycled bikes and a welcoming space to learn about bicycle repair, maintenance and operation. They accept donations of bikes and anything and everything bike related, in any condition, including Topeak-style repair stands, rags, toothbrushes, a truing stand and more. Call 720.565.6019 or visit communitycycles.org to check out their full wish list.

Feed a bird…
The Greenwood Wildlife Center is a resource for people who have found sick, injured or orphaned wildlife. Greenwood’s constant need is for volunteers to care for the thousands of patients they see each year. Donations of items like paper towels, bleach and bird seed are also always welcome; a full list is available at greenwoodwildlife.org or call 303.545.5849.

Do your holiday shopping…
The Boulder County AIDS Project offers support for those infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS as well as working to provide outreach and information and prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS. Attend the World AIDS Day Concert on Dec. 1 at the First United Methodist Church, or shop the merchants of East End Pearl Street on Dec. 4, when a portion of sales will benefit BCAP. Visit bcap.org or call 303.444.6121.

Share a pie…
The Sister Carmen Community Center is the only source of comprehensive basic needs assistance for the area. They need ingredients for their “pie bags,” which include canned pumpkin pie filling, evaporated milk and a pie crust and are used to supplement holiday food boxes for families in need. Call 303.665.4342 or visit sistercarmen.org.

Brienne Garside contributed to this story.

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