We envision a Pikes Peak community that is a vibrant democracy

in which equal rights are protected,

individual freedoms are secure, differences are respected,

and people fully participate in civic and community life.

With the welcoming of new staff, we are saying goodbye to Erin Grajales, our Interim Executive Director. Erin came to Citizens Project as the Programs and Operations Manager in August 2021 and stepped into the Executive Director role earlier this year. To say she has made a lasting impact on Citizens Project would be a significant understatement. She not only stepped into the role, but she leaves a lasting legacy. While Erin will not be a part of the day-to-day operations, she will always be committed to the mission and work of equity, inclusion, and justice. We are beyond grateful for her commitment, her work ethic, her contagious energy, and her infectious smile. We'll miss you Erin!

Meet Celize Acosta!

Citizens Project Programs and Operations Manager



Citizens Project is excited to introduce Celize Acosta as the new Programming and Operations Manager for Citizens Project. Celize was born and raised in Colorado Springs, and this city has contributed to the person she is in a profoundly significant way. Celize considers it an honor to continue to serve that same community in a different capacity. She is a proud alumnus of Pikes Peak Community College and the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. While Celize has worked in a public service position for over 10 years she is excited for this next opportunity to be a voice for equity, inclusion, and justice. 

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Meet Christopher Davis, Development Intern!

The University of Colorado,

Denver School of Public Administration

Christopher is finishing his Master's Degree from the University of Denver in the  School of Public Administration. He is justice-oriented, and eager to both work with and learn from Citizens Project this summer. Christopher and his wife, Clare, recently welcomed their first child. If you see Christopher, be sure to ask him to see pictures of his adorable new son! 

Pronouns: he/him/his

Join Citizens Project as we launch our first installment in our Community Engagement Series.

Our first dialogue will focus on Equity and will feature community conversations led by experts in the equity space. This event will be a dialogue with the purpose of learning, growing, and understanding the complexities of equity. 

EVERYONE IS INVITED to ATTEND this FREE EVENT

Please RSVP HERE

Citizens Project Board Member, Christina Leza spoke at the Bans Off our Bodies rally at Acacia Park on May 14th. Planned Parenthood Bans Off Our Bodies events were held nationwide to show support for women's reproductive rights. As a health equity issue, we encourage continued engagement in the "calls to action" below.

Citizens Project Executive Director, Mike Williams and new Programs and Operations Manager, Celize Acosta, attended the K-Land Community Cares Event where Citizens Project registered 16 NEW VOTERS! Two of those registrants were under 18, and four were formerly incarcerated individuals who were not aware of their ability to register to vote. 

**For those of you who have a history with Citizens Project,

NOTICE Mike's throwback CP t-shirt!

When you partner with Citizens Project, you affect change in our community and ensure a lasting impact. As we all know, the work of civic engagement is needed now more than ever. As we move forward in Citizens Project's 30th year, your support is appreciated and never taken for granted.

Thank you for caring; thank you for supporting and thank you for investing into Citizens Project and continuing the legacy of bold and fearless work of advocacy in the Pikes Peak Region!

Donations can be made via the link HERE or by using the QR Code below. 

We've added some additional platforms to our social media!

It's a great way to keep up with us in the community!