In our 47-year history of service to Southwest Colorado, we have found that when people join together for the common good things change for the better.
Independently operated
501(c)3 non-profit organization
serving La Plata, San Juan, Montezuma, Dolores & Archuleta Counties
SPOTLIGHT
During the lazy days (and nights) of summer, it’s easy for kids to slip out of their
regular routines—including their usual sleeping habits. Here are some tips from our partner, FamilyWize, on how to reestablish a bedtime schedule as the beginning of the school year draws near.
Parents: looking for some new games to keep young kids (ages 3-5) busy while you’re home together? We’ve got 15 that are fun, simple and will help your kids build important skills. READ MORE
Before making my way into the non-profit field, I spent close to a decade working as a wilderness expedition guide. My days were spent teaching others, mostly youth, how to utilize the outdoors as a catalyst for personal growth and change. From spelunking through caves in North Carolina, to rappelling through the canyons of Utah, to canoeing through the oceans of Southeast Alaska, I leaned into activities that encouraged people to step outside of their comfort zones in order to step into a space of learning and growth. My job was to manage the risk and provide support so that my participants could safely accept the challenges presented before them.
These days, I have a lot fewer mosquito bites, and I eat a lot less trail mix than I did as a wilderness guide, but the gift of being a part of these experiences will always be with me. The feeling of watching someone step into the unknown and come out on the other side as a more confident and empowered human still inspires me today.
While my work with United Way of Southwest Colorado’s Team UP AmeriCorps program no longer involves hailstorms or rock-climbing, I still view myself as an expedition guide. This past September, we had nine people sign on for a year-long expedition with Team UP AmeriCorps. During this year, they have faced challenges and felt triumphs. In two short months, they will complete their term and move on to their next adventure. Once again, I find myself inspired by individuals that are willing to do the work, ask the questions, accept the challenges, and ultimately never stop growing!
Congrats to our 2019-2020 cohort of AmeriCorps members! Thank you for inspiring us all!
With gratitude,
Al Huckins
Team UP AmeriCorps
Program Director
CAN YOU HELP?
A full-time AC member costs about $32,000 per year. United Way secures grants and contributions to cover approximately $18,000. We ask host sites to raise/obtain the other $14,000 (which is a bargain for a full-time person with benefits). Donors can contribute to further reduce the cost for a non-profit to obtain this wonderful support.
"United Way of Southwest Colorado is a huge advocate for our communities and a support to nonprofit agencies. By supporting your local United Way you are giving to a trustworthy organization that works diligently to utilize its donor’s funds in the most appropriate way. The Board meets monthly to discuss what is needed and to make decisions that are best for our community. Being a part of this great organization both as a donor and board member is a great privilege and honor and a great way to give back to the community that I call home."
What is Collective Impact?
A resource for communities and their partners creating social change.
Our Team UP work uses this type of Collective Impact approach to improve outcomes for kids from cradle to career.
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SERVING ALL COLORADO COMMUNITIES
Service provided in part by
United Way of Southwest Colorado
Get Connected. Get Help.
We know it can often times be difficult and overwhelming to know where to go for help.
2-1-1 Colorado streamlines services and provides one central location where people can get connected to the resources they need. With a database that is updated daily, 2-1-1 Colorado can connect you to critical resources simply by dialing a three-digit number.
Whether you are searching for shelter availability, childcare, or rent payment assistance – 2-1-1 can connect you to available resources in your community.
