“Nothing About Us
Without Us”
Vision Statement
We envision communities where all youth are valued as leaders and feel a strong sense of belonging. By empowering youth voice and leadership, we aim to reduce risk behaviors and improve mental and physical health outcomes for all young people.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to empower youth to lead meaningful change in their communities. We enhance their leadership and civic skills by connecting them with local opportunities, community partners, and policymakers: supporting them to transform their ideas into action and spearhead projects that address issues impacting their lives and their world.
About Us
For the past decade, our work began as the Lafayette Communities That Care (CTC) Coalition in partnership with Boulder County Public Health, bringing together youth, families, and community partners to use data and prevention science to address issues impacting young people while strengthening belonging, relationships, and leadership.
That work now continues through our nonprofit, Colorado Youth Empowerment Center, where our Community Board helps guide strategy and youth take the lead through our Roots & Futures programming by identifying community issues, working with local partners, and creating and leading projects that address those issues.
We are guided by a “nothing about us without us” approach, meaning young people are not just included, they are actively involved in decisions, planning, and leading the work that impacts their lives and their communities.
Roots & Futures
For youth in grades 6–12, Roots & Futures helps youth explore who they are, build confidence, and make a difference in their community.
Through creative expression and real-world projects, youth build identity, find a sense of belonging, and grow into leaders who take action on issues that matter to them.
This program is built on years of community work and focuses on helping young people feel connected, supported, and empowered.
How it works:
ROOTS – Learn who you are and what matters to you
FUTURES – Lead projects to help your community
Our Partners
