March 2026 Newsletter
Dear Colorado LiftED Community,
Spring is here — and so is possibility.
This month, I keep coming back to Brian. A senior in our program, Brian attended our first Board Mentorship Day at the State Capitol, walked in with confidence, and did what LiftED students do: he showed up fully and made the most of every moment. One conversation with State Representative Kenny Nguyen turned into two interviews—and those interviews turned into a four-day-a-week internship at the Capitol for the rest of the school year.
That’s what happens when young people are given a seat at the table. They don’t jusSweet Connections at The Cake Bar on March 26t sit—they lead.
Brian’s story is one of many unfolding across our community. We see it in Abigail, a 4th grader stepping boldly into leadership, and in Grizel, a 10th grader who loves this program so much she postponed her summer trip to Mexico just to stay. We see it in our clinical team, who delivered over 400 therapy sessions in February alone—quietly and consistently showing up for the young people who need it most.
An inch wide and a mile deep. Whatever it takes. This is what Colorado LiftED looks like in action—and it is happening because of you.
I’d love to see you this month. Join me for Coffee with Kaye on March 19, or stop by Sweet Connections at The Cake Bar on March 26. Let’s celebrate what we’re building together.
Kaye Taavialma, President & CEO
Mission Moment
A glimpse into what we do and why we do it.
From Mentorship to Internship: A Success Story from the State Capitol
Amazing things happen when young people are given the opportunity—and the encouragement—to boldly step forward.
Brian, a senior at Colorado LiftED Foundation, recently participated in our first Board Mentorship Day at the State Capitol. The day began with a warm welcome from LiftED board member and State Representative Sean Camacho, who invited students to sit in on the morning opening session of the legislature. For many, it was their first time experiencing the inner workings of state government up close.
Brian didn’t hesitate to make the most of the moment. True to the spirit of LiftED students, he began connecting with leaders across the room. One of those conversations—with State Representative Kenny Nguyen—turned into something much bigger. After a handshake and a discussion about Brian’s interest in political science, Representative Nguyen encouraged him to apply for a legislative internship. Two interviews later, Brian proudly accepted the offer.
For the remainder of the school year, Brian will spend four days a week at the State Capitol as an intern in Representative Nguyen’s office—gaining hands-on experience and deepening his commitment to community service.
Brian’s story is a powerful example of what happens when young people are given a seat at the table. Through experiences like Board Mentorship Day, LiftED ensures that students don’t just learn about leadership and civic engagement—they actively participate in it.
It also reflects our commitment to going "an inch wide and a mile deep." By building consistent relationships and opening doors, we invest deeply in each young person’s journey. When opportunities don’t naturally exist, our community does whatever it takes to help create them.
We are so excited to watch Brian excel as he pursues his passion for serving his community.
Youth Spotlight
An Inch Wide, Mile Deep: Abigail Aguilar (4th Grade)
Abigail consistently brings her best self to the program. She is a natural leader, a self-starter, and a resilient advocate for herself and others. Since joining the Youth Council, Abi has already made a significant impact, successfully leading her first project from start to finish.
We are grateful to have her with us as she uses her creativity and dedication to improve the program for her peers. Whenever new partners visit, she is actively engaged and naturally inquisitive, always eager to learn more. Abi is incredibly generous and helpful to both her peers and the staff at Blossom House—her personality is truly infectious!
Whatever it Takes: Grizel Paredes (10th Grade)
Since joining our high school program in January, Grizel has consistently shown up with a smile. She brings such positive energy and has attended the program every single day—she truly is one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet!
Grizel is a natural collaborator who consistently includes her peers during group work. She’s even recruited friends from her school to join us, which is the ultimate testament to how much she enjoys being here. Her commitment is next-level: she has intentionally balanced her extracurriculars to prioritize LiftED (don’t worry, she’s still playing soccer!) and even convinced her mom to postpone their summer trip to Mexico. She didn't want to miss a single day of the school year or our upcoming summer programming.
This is the kind of consistency and engagement that makes our community so special!
Updates
Youth Program Spotlight
February was a full and energizing month across our programs. Our 3rd–8th grade youth deepened their partnership with the Denver Public Library’s Lena Archuleta Branch, visiting regularly to explore resources and join weekly Game Nights. Meanwhile, our 12th graders flexed their leadership skills by hosting Baking Day at the Blossom House community kitchen—an event they designed and led for our younger students.
We also welcomed two incredible external partners for hands-on learning:
The Cake Bar Denver led a cupcake-decorating workshop, introducing youth to the art of cake design.
Garver engaged students in engineering activities and shared professional insights in honor of Engineers Week.
Our high schoolers were equally active, participating in an apprenticeship workshop with CareerWise and attending a Social Justice Career Night at Blossom House. Our 11th graders also launched their SAT Prep series, which runs for seven weeks on Thursdays from 4:30–6:00 p.m.
Looking ahead to summer, we hosted a family night for 11th graders to share an exciting pre-collegiate experience at Adams State University. This summer, rising seniors will spend a week on campus blending academic exploration—geology, anthropology, and environmental science—with immersive outdoor learning, from hiking to sand-dune boarding.
☀️ Summer Camp Registration is Open!
Registration for our summer program at Ricardo Flores Magón Academy (RFMA) is now live.
Dates: June 2 – July 16 (Monday–Thursday)
Times: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Who: Rising 3rd–8th graders
Cost: Free!
We are so grateful to RFMA for hosting us again this year. Stay tuned—our high school summer schedule is coming soon!
Clinical Program Spotlight
Spring is bringing exciting momentum to our clinical programs at Colorado LiftED as we continue expanding mental health access for youth and families across Denver.
In February alone, our team provided more than 400 therapy sessions, bringing our total to nearly 2,800 sessions since July 1. Each of those hours represents a young person finding a safe space to process their world, build coping skills, and feel truly supported.
We are also investing in the next generation of providers. Our 2026–2027 Clinical Intern cohort received an incredible 49 applications. After 16 intensive interviews, we are preparing to welcome five new interns this summer. This partnership helps us grow Denver’s behavioral health workforce while ensuring care remains accessible and affordable for the long term.
Beyond direct clinical services, we are strengthening the wider network of adults who show up for our kids:
Professional Development: This month, our team is presenting to out-of-school-time (OST) providers across Denver, sharing practical tools to support youth mental health during after-school hours.
Family Support: We are launching a Family Support Group for those connected to the Restoring Futures program—creating a dedicated space for caregivers and youth to navigate challenges together.
Every session, partnership, and conversation ensures that our young people never have to navigate their struggles alone. We are deeply grateful to the educators, families, and advocates who continue to show up for Denver's youth in such meaningful ways.
Team Spotlight
Josue Silva (He/Him)
Lead High School Instructor
Josue works directly with our youth to build a community where every student feels seen and supported. Having served Denver since he was 14, he uses his lived experience as a first-gen graduate to help students navigate their own futures with confidence. When he isn’t at Blossom House, you’ll likely find him hunting for the next addition to his 50+ pair sneaker collection.
Kady Mohammad (She/Her)
Clinical Intern
A Master’s candidate at the University of Denver, Kady supports youth and adults navigating stress, identity, and cultural transitions. As an Arabic speaker, she provides vital, culturally resonant care for immigrant and Arabic-speaking families. Kady utilizes a trauma-informed lens grounded in social justice to ensure every client feels seen and understood. At home, Kady loves cooking with her family and spending time with her "zoo" of cats and dogs.
Community Partner Spotlight
We are deeply grateful for our four-year partnership with the Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation. Their steadfast support has been instrumental in expanding opportunities for our youth while promoting awareness of oral health and dental careers.
Following National Children’s Dental Health Month, we are especially appreciative of their commitment to improving health outcomes and building a more diverse workforce. Thank you, Delta Dental Foundation, for the positive difference you continue to make for young people and families across Colorado!
Policy Spotlight
Colorado After-School Programs Face Deep Budget Cuts
State lawmakers are currently weighing significant cuts to after-school funding that could impact over 5,000 Colorado children. As the state scrambles to close an $850 million budget gap, programs focused on STEM and academic support are on the chopping block. Advocates warn these cuts will hit low-income families hardest, potentially forcing parents out of the workforce. Read the full story hereto learn more about how this could affect our community and the upcoming legislative vote.
Upcoming Events
Coffee with Kaye: Third Thursday Conversation ☕
When: March 19 | 8:00 – 9:00 AM
Where: Blossom House, 3300 W Nevada Place, Denver
What: Start your morning with coffee and meaningful conversation. Kaye will share updates on the Colorado LiftED Foundation and the exciting work happening in our community. Join us for this recurring gathering on the third Thursday of every month.
Sweet Connections at The Cake Bar 🍰
When: March 26 | 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Where: The Cake Bar, 214 E 13th Avenue, Denver
What: Join us for a relaxed afternoon with fellow supporters. Stop by anytime for cake and conversation as we celebrate the students and programs you help make possible.
