Family-First Nonprofit YouthZone: Empowering Youth and Strengthening Communities in Western Colorado

By Carol Wolff

Established in 1976, YouthZone has emerged as a crucial support system for young people and their families in Western Colorado. As an award-winning, evidence-based diversion and advocacy program, YouthZone has been instrumental in inspiring healthy relationships between youth, families, and communities.

Guided by a vision for a world with hopeful young people, robust families, and secure communities, YouthZone’s mission is to offer comprehensive assessment and advocacy. Our commitment to promoting positive development for adolescents in the Western Slope is unfaltering. By putting into motion intervention, prevention, and volunteering initiatives, we customize our programs to serve the varying needs of clients aged 6 to 18 years.

At the heart of YouthZone’s success lies its core values. We take pride in following through on promises, upholding our mission, and being responsible for our conduct. As custodians of the resources entrusted to us, we strive to maximize our resources to create opportunities for others. Central to our operation is a concern for the well-being of others and creating a non-judgmental supportive environment. Emphasizing integrity, we sustain open, direct, and honest communication.

YouthZone’s programs provide safety, compassion, empathy, and education to clients struggling with personal challenges. Our range of services includes youth assessment, parental guidance and support, individual and family counseling, restorative justice, court programs and monitoring, educational workshops, LGBTQIA+ peer groups, and more. By attending these programs, a whopping 90% of clients go on to maintain their healthy behaviors after graduating from our programs. This is testimony to our committed and proficient team and the individual endeavors of our clients.

Recognizing that everyone has unique needs, talents, and motivations, YouthZone takes an individualized and comprehensive approach to its programming. This ensures that each child receives the support they need to build self-esteem and security. By addressing the complex and multifaceted trials faced by modern-day adolescents, we help youth develop the skills and resilience necessary to thrive in their personal lives and contribute positively to their communities.

YouthZone, while continually evolving to cater to community needs, onboarded eight new members in 2023 and is on the lookout for additional talent for roles such as Mental Health Counselor, Substance Use Prevention and Intervention Specialist, and others. We value diversity and inclusivity, inviting individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and advocating for equality.

With its unwavering support and belief in the potential for growth and transformation in every individual, YouthZone empowers its clients to envision a brighter future. By providing resources, guidance, and a nurturing environment, YouthZone equips youth with the tools they need to overcome challenges and achieve personal development.

As we continue to make a positive impact on the youth and families of Western Colorado, YouthZone stands as a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to create a community where every young person can thrive. Through our evidence-based programs, dedicated staff, and commitment to inclusivity, YouthZone is proving that a brighter future is possible for all. But we can’t do it alone.

We urge you to take a moment and consider supporting our cause. We warmly invite anyone interested in volunteering, donating, or joining our staff. By supporting YouthZone, either through financial aid or volunteering, you can have a pivotal role in transforming lives and building a stronger, healthier community. For anyone seeking a rewarding career in the nonprofit realm or aid for their child, YouthZone stands ready to make a difference. Together, we can ensure that every young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their current circumstances. Your contribution could be the turning point in someone’s life. We encourage you to support YouthZone today and make a lasting difference tomorrow!

YouthZone is a family-first nonprofit that supports parents and guardians, families, and adolescents. From Aspen to Parachute, we offer parent counseling and education services, family resources, and comprehensive assessment and advocacy to inspire healthy relationships between youth, families, and communities. To learn more about how YouthZone can help, please call us at 970-945-9300.

Carol Wolff is a dedicated professional, currently serves as the Director of Development at YouthZone. Garnering an extensive background in the field, she spent 11 years as the Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre in Grand Lake, Colorado, and held an equally impactful term with the Colorado Honor Band Association in Denver, Colorado since 2015. Wielding a degree in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Colorado, her educational background has proven instrumental in her work at YouthZone. Carol has been effectively channeling her knowledge and experience towards the growth of the organization since she joined in March 2020.