YOUTH SPOTLIGHT | CJ YURCAK |
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From the Court to the Auto Shop, Yurcak’s Compassion and Leadership are Contagious
Accomplished high school athletes might collect titles such as Western Slope Co-Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, All Conference First Team, All State Colorado High School Coaches Association (CHSCA), All State Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports (CCGS), and six unique seasons as captain. For many athletes, this would require a busy enough schedule for them to hang their hats and relax off the field and court. Cassandra "CJ" Yurcak has humbly accomplished each of these feats through volleyball, lacrosse and basketball, yet there is so much more that defines this Eagle Valley High School (EVHS) Senior.
What sets CJ apart from her peers is the way she handles situations. There have been a series of formative experiences that have impacted CJ, including losses of close friends and family members. A major tragedy shook our community six years ago when CJ‘s dear friend Olivia died by suicide. A long-time teammate and friend, this shocking loss brought their social circle together in unexpected manners. “The more we talk about Olivia and other losses, the more exposure we have and the less likely it is to happen again,” CJ reflects. She is determined to help break stigmas and increase access to resources and supports. The aftermath of Olivia’s death brought weekly check ins with close friends as well as tremendous support from counselors. Olivia would be walking with her graduating class this year. CJ invited Olivia’s mother Vicky to walk with her on senior night for volleyball as a nod to her remembrance and their friendship.
Reaching out and making sure people know others are there for them is critical. CJ describes, “It is imperative to be mindful of how you show up for and treat others, and how you take care of yourself in the wake of tragedies. There are people who want you there.” She continues, “More recently, in remembrance of Kellen, everyone was there to support each other. We have such easy access to each other- let's make sure we are cautious of what we are saying and doing, and use those avenues to check in on each other.” CJ calls out local resources such as Speak Up Reach Out, Eagle County’s local suicide prevention coalition, and the Happiness Project, where she often shares tips and quotes for inspiration. She talks about being intentional about how we show up for others, and how sharing kindness can change someone’s day.
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Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized? Nominate a Youth Spotlight Here
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DIFFERENCE MAKER | KAITLYN MERRIMAN |
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Kaitlyn believes every student, from all backgrounds, with every kind of story, deserves access to education, resources, and not worrying about things that adults worry about.
Many Coloradans take the time to be outside, and bringing youth into the outdoors is something that makes Kaitlyn Merriman come alive. Growing up in Boulder, Kaitlyn spent her time mountain biking, skiing and snowboarding, rafting; all the quintessential activities Colorado is known for. While at CU Boulder, studying Communication, she fell in love with how communication is at the core of all levels within change and society. Kaitlyn learned how to listen more effectively, how cultural communication styles abound within our communities, and started to think how to get youth connected to the outdoors while meeting some valuable communication needs.
Kaitlyn joined Walking Mountains as Community Programs Manager, where she experienced the joy and meaning that comes with youth education and the outdoors. “I was in environmental education for a decade,” she says. “Everyone deserves nature. Nature heals, teaches, reduces symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Getting our youth to have less screen time and more engagement in wilderness is powerful. People need to get outside, and have access to it”. Her work with Walking Mountains fueled a desire to meet youth in even more practical and accessible ways.
Kaitlyn believes every student, from all backgrounds, with every kind of story, deserves access to education, resources, and not worrying about things that adults worry about. That belief brought her to YouthPower365. The organization is able to meet even more kids where they are at. As Middle School Operations Manager, Kaitlyn gets to offer unique supports to youth. Afterschool programs are robust and diverse in selection, youth get to show up with no judgment. These programs are bringing a love of learning, curiosity, and age appropriate activities they can enjoy while learning. They offer chances for kids to connect to friends they might only see outside of school. YouthPower365 wraps around kids with support as well, and Kaitlyn understands that the number one indicator of social success for youth is family engagement.
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Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized? Nominate a Difference Maker Here
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Mountain Youth together with SpeakUp ReachOut is hosting a bilingual Move Chat Connect event with yoga, food, and conversations, at Nottingham Park on June 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm. Rocio Martinez, an Ayurveda consultant, yoga instructor, and owner of Gula Wellness, will lead participants through a beginner-level yoga class in English and Spanish. Bring your family, friends, and join your community to move, connect, and grow together. Food, childcare, and interpretation will be available at the event. Please register HERE.
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If you have any questions or ideas on topics or speakers you would like to hear from, please contact Stevi Bratschie, Community Education Manager at sbratschie@mountainyouth.org. We look forward to seeing you!
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Únete a nosotros para esta clase de Zumba. Ven a relajarte y aprende una buena forma de desconectar de la rutina diaria. Hombres y mujeres son bienvenidos. No se necesita experiencia. Jueves, 29 de junio de 2023 en Gypsum Rec Center de 5:30pm a 7:30pm.
Regístrate con Diana al (970)401-3717. Encuentre más información aquí.
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If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact Cameron Dole, Youth Engagement Coordinator, at cdole@mountainyouth.org
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Mountain Youth Celebrates June with PRIDE! |
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Mountain Youth is wholeheartedly thankful for EVERYONE in our community. Mountain Youth strives to be truly inclusive, diverse, equitable, and fair to all. We see the value and worth in each and every person and we are grateful for what every individual brings to the table. We are proud to celebrate the LGBTQ+ members of our community this month, and all year long. We encourage everyone to live authentically, and we strive to continue to be allies as part of the movement to make Eagle County more welcoming, inclusive, and safe for all.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans. In June of 1969, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist the police harassment and persecution to which LGBT Americans were commonly subjected. This uprising marks the beginning of a movement to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices against LGBT Americans.
Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts, and LGBT Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that LGBTQ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.
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Federal and local policies and practices are increasingly acknowledging and focusing on LGBTQ youth and numerous national advocacy and other organizations are also giving greater attention to LGBTQ youth in their work. Encouraging greater acceptance and support for all youth, including those who are or are perceived to be LGBTQ, will make communities, schools, and other settings safer, better places for all youth.
Make sure to check out and support our amazing community partners at Mountain Pride, as well as visit other great resources that can help you learn how to be an ally, such as Forward Together.
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Nonprofit Learning Series: Navigating the Shifting Landscape - Fundraising and Grant Trends
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Join us for an enlightening presentation featuring two distinguished experts in the field: Robin Thompson, renowned fundraising strategist, and Holly Loff, esteemed grant professional. Together, they will provide valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscapes of fundraising and grants, sharing their expertise, strategies, and projections for the coming year.
Robin Thompson will kick off the presentation by delving into the latest fundraising trends. With a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector, Robin has helped numerous organizations achieve remarkable fundraising success. During her session, she will discuss emerging strategies that are proving to be game-changers in the current fundraising climate. From reporting trends to acquiring and optimizing donor engagement, Robin will equip participants with practical tips to enhance their fundraising efforts.
Following Robin's insightful talk, Holly Loff, an accomplished grants professional, will take the stage to shed light on the dynamic world of grants. Holly's deep understanding of grantmaking processes and her ability to identify funding opportunities have made her a sought-after expert in the field. In her session, Holly will share her analysis of the latest grant trends, including shifts in funding priorities, emerging sources of support, and the impact of current events on grant availability. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on grant proposal best practices, effective research strategies, and how to position their organizations for grant success.
Throughout the presentation, both Robin and Holly will draw from their extensive experience, providing real-world examples that highlight successful fundraising campaigns and grant acquisitions. They will also address audience questions, offering personalized advice and insights. Whether you are a seasoned fundraising professional, a nonprofit executive, or an aspiring grantseeker, this presentation is a must-attend event. Robin Thompson and Holly Loff's combined expertise and comprehensive understanding of fundraising and grant dynamics will provide you with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in today's competitive landscape.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from two industry leaders. Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking session that will empower you to navigate the evolving fundraising and grants arena with confidence and success.
Date: Wednesday, June 24
Time: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Location: Edwards Early Learning Center
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The Western Slope Regional Leadership Committee invites you to New Challenges, Stronger Organizations! |
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The Regional Leadership Committee of the Western Slope invites you to a gathering of nonprofit leaders seeking to strengthen organizations and regional collaboration during a day of exploration, skill building and opportunities to build you, your staff and the region!
CRC’s Regional Leadership Committees work together to support collaborations that result in stronger nonprofits throughout their regions. Local communities decide on projects and events to bring to fruition, and seek to ensure the flow of information, resources and opportunities to all nonprofits.
In preparation for the 2024 Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days, New Challenges, Stronger Organizations is designed to highlight some of the important trends in the region, including:
· Learnings from the Western Slope Capacity Building Program of 2022
· Trends in retaining staff through new ways of envisioning nonprofit work culture and organizational structures
· The latest news on funding opportunities from Western Slope funders
· How organizations are building strength by sharing resources, including space, back office functions, or even fundraising activities
· The opportunity to discuss ideas and build momentum for 2023 Western Slope Rural Philanthropy Days
We will start the day with an interactive panel that will explore the ways in which the Western Slope Capacity Building Program made a difference in the lives of the people and their organizations who participated, with an eye toward what this might mean for the future. There will be morning and afternoon participatory workshop sessions with topics on Retaining Staff, Sustaining Nonprofit Leaders, the Funding Landscape and Resource Sharing Among Organizations. The end of the day will allow for networking and discussion and a synthesizing presentation about what will come out of our time together. Throughout the day, talented performance artist and teacher Merrily Talbot will enliven our bodies and our hearts with exercises to put us all in the mood for learning!
Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and coffee will be provided.
Western Slope Based Participant (Early Bird*) : $75
Western Slope Based Participant (Regular) : $100
Statewide Participant: $125
*Early bird registration closes Friday, June 2nd, 11:59 pm.
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Location: Eagle, CO
Date: June-July; 6, 4-Day Camps
Time: Half Day, 9-12; Full Day, 9-3
The Full Day Community Camp RIDE provides an action-packed day for your child that will enhance their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Each day will start with mountain biking from 9-12 and then the afternoons will circulate between Climbing, Yoga, Art and Bike Mechanic Lessons. Drop off will be at the Eagle BMX parking lot and pick up will conveniently be located at the shared location of the Climbing +Fitness Gym, Yoga Off Broadway, Dewey Dabbles and Moontime Cyclery.
The Half Day Camp RIDE uses the bike to nurture a child’s holistic health. The four-day camp will help facilitate a new generation of trail users aware of their footprint and how to treat the trails more sustainably. Our experienced coaches will provide a space for your child to learn how the bike benefits one's physical, mental and emotional health. We aim to build a healthy foundation for lifelong riders. Register HERE! |
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Contact Information: Whitney Young
(970) 926-7070
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Location: Family Learning Center
31626 Highway 6 Edwards, CO 81632
Date: Saturday, June 17th
Time: 9 am to 12 pm
Volunteer clean up day (all ages are welcome)- we will be working on cleaning the outside playground areas, adding sand to sandboxes, and setting up and planting new plants in the garden for the summer!
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Location: Riverwalk Theatre in Edwards
Date: Friday, June 16th
Time: TBD
Come check out the new Disney Pixar film "Elemental" on Friday June 16th at the Riverwalk Theatre. There will be a premier ticket price option for the movie AND a few other options of premier ticket price combo packages (i.e. price to buy ticket & Popcorn, ticket & drink, ticket & meal, etc) A portion of the funds raised for selling these tickets will be donated back to Family Learning Center (FLC, supporting our mission of improving social emotional development of children and families in the valley! Watch the trailer for the film here.
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Location: Colorado Mountain College, Edwards - Main Entrance, Lobby areas, and Hallways
Date: Thursday June 22 and Friday June 23
Time: 4pm to 6pm
We are inviting our community to explore the children of the Family Learning Center’s “Language of Art” exhibition on Thursday June 22nd, and Friday June 23rd from 5-7pm at Colorado Mountain College. The art exhibit will display our children’s masterpieces and share what motivates them to create, develop and experiment with art. The exhibit brings value to their lives by promoting their works of art for other people to see and encourages communication, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking. Come embrace a taste of what early childhood educators receive out of every amazing moment watching our young children grow and create. Let’s foster this love of art together!
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Bright Future Foundation is hiring!
Bilingual Advocate
Under the direction of Bright Future Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer and Advocacy Supervisor, the Bilingual Advocate will support the mission of the organization by ensuring respectful, compassionate, survivor-centered responses to all persons seeking residential and non-residential services. The advocate will meet regularly with the Advocacy Supervision Team to create survivor-driven treatment plans. The advocate will work to identify psychosocial needs of survivors, provide supportive services during court/legal proceedings, and assist with the coordination of additional services. Additionally, the advocate will attend regular staff meetings, maintain a client database, institute assessment and quality assurance measures, and provide general office support duties as needed. The advocate will also provide emergency, on-call coverage for the 24-7 crisis hotline on a rotating basis.
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Location: TimberHearth at Club at Cordillera
Date: 6/15/2023
Time: 9:00 am thru lunch
Duplicate bridge, social bridge, and
mah jongg
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Location: Splendido at the Chateau
Date: 6/28/2023
Time: 6:00pm
Chef’s dinner at Splendido,
live auction
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Contact Information:
Jen Rogus
(970) 763-7204
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All players wanting to be placed on a Fall 2023 team must register for tryouts. We will not place any player that is NOT registered! High School boys DO NOT register as they are playing HS soccer in the fall. Register today for 2023/2024 Competitive Club Soccer tryouts. Please go to www.vailsoccer.com and login, then choose the registration link. If new to the club, please create an account, then a player profile and then choose the 2023/2024 Competitive Club Registration link here.
2023/2024 Competitive Tryout Registration
VVSC TRYOUT DATES
June 5 & June 7
U11/U12 Girls and Boys Freedom Park 4:30 - 6:00 pm
U13/U14 Girls and Boys Freedom Park 6:00 - 7:30 pm
TRYOUT DATES:
June 1 & June 6
Singletree Park High School Girls 4:30 - 6:00 pm
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Location: Eagle, CO
Date: Session 1: June 12-17, Session 2: June 19-24
Time: 8am-5pm daily with one overnight on Friday
Chrysalis Circle empowers Middle and High School girls through deep Earth connection and exhilarating adventures in nature – kayaking, rock climbing, hiking. They discover their authentic voice and gain confidence, courage, confidence, inner strength, and resilience while also learning powerful life skills for navigating drama, bullying, relationships, and communication in their teen years and beyond. Studies show that girls’ self-esteem plummets 30% between the ages of 11 and 14 leading to depression and anxiety. Chrysalis helps girls get ahead and stay ahead of the self-esteem free-fall!
Cost: $475 – payment plans provided
Contact Information:
Susie Kincade
(970) 328-5472
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-Volunteers Needed!-
Interested in volunteering for the LG TRI on Saturday July 8th? Please click HERE.
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The Summer Solstice trail run in the Dynafit Trail Running Series is made possible by the Vail Recreation District. This 5K or 10K begins and ends in beautiful Creekside Park in the heart of Beaver Creek; the Summer Solstice run sends participants through and around the resort community.
Location: Creekside Park, Beaver Creek Mountain
Date: June 17, 2023
Time: 9:00am
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The LG Tri is a sprint triathlon honoring VVCF grant recipient Laura Genelin - and returns this year new and improved! The course features a 500-yard open water swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and 5K run - all near the Siena at Brightwater neighborhood of Gypsum. We're also running the Kids Tri, so bring the whole family!
Location: Siena at Brightwater – Gypsum, CO
Date: July 8, 2023
Time: 7:00am
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In celebration of our 27th Anniversary, join us for the Vail Valley Brew ‘Au at Nottingham Park! Enjoy unlimited samples of amazing brews, seltzers, and ciders in a souvenir sampling glass, alongside live music, water lanterns, food trucks, kids activities, and interactive art.
Location: Nottingham Park, Avon, CO
Date: August 19, 2023
Time: 4:00pm
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Renata / Estefania 970-376-5587
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Socios / Partners: Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, Eagle Valley Land Trust y/and Town of Avon
Location: West Avon Preserve
Date: 27 de Junio / June 27th
Time: 9am – 11am
Short description: GRATIS. Para todas las edades. ¿Sabías qué Eagle County es el hogar de una flor muy rara y hermosa? De hecho, la reserva de West Avon es uno de los únicos lugares del mundo en los que se puede encontrar el escurridizo Penstemon de Harrington. Venga a ver esta rara belleza y aprenda sobre la abundante vida en la comunidad de sagebrush. / FREE. For all ages. Did you know that Eagle County is home to a very rare and beautiful flower? In fact, the West Avon Reserve is one of the only places in the world where the elusive Harrington's Penstemon can be found. Come see this rare beauty and learn about the abundant life in the sagebrush community.
¿Sabías qué vivimos en el hogar de una flor muy rara y hermosa? De hecho, la reserva de West Avon es uno de los únicos lugares del mundo en los que se puede encontrar el Escurridizo Penstemon de Harrington. Unase a la caminata para ver esta rara belleza y aprenda sobre la abundante vida ahí.
¡Oportunidad única de mirar esta flor!
Cupos / Spots: 20 – register using the link above
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Socios / Partners: Colorado State University - Extension
Location: Two Rivers, Dotsero
Date: 6, 13, 20 y 27 de Junio / June 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th
Time: 4:30pm-6:30pm
GRATIS. Para todas las edades. Vamos a aprender a plantar y cuidar diferentes vegetales y cómo utilizarlos para cocinar comidas saludables. Ustedes van a llevar los vegetales a su casa. Por favor, ven a todos los días de las clases.
¿No les ha pasado que van al supermercado, y la verdura está carísima? Pues imagínate poder evitarte el estrés de ir a la tienda, y crecer tus propios frutos en casa. EVOM te invita a aprender a plantar y cuidar diferentes vegetales y cómo utilizarlos para cocinar comidas saludables. Además podrán llevar los vegetales a su casa. Para todas las edades.
¡Mira el calendario, hay más fechas!
Cupos / Spots: 30
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Socios / Partners: Eagle Climbing + Fitness and Walking Mountains
Location: Camp Hale
Date: 17 de Junio / June 17th
Time: 10am – 2pm
$5 por persona. A partir de los 4 años. Para padres e hijos. Transporte gratis desde Avon. Enviar mensaje a nuestro teléfono si necesita transporte
¡Aprovecha el clima bonito para celebrar el día del padre al aire libre! Este evento es especialmente para los padres y sus hijos. Nosotros tendremos todo el equipo y guías especializados serán proporcionados. No te pierdas de esta oportunidad increíble que solamente cuesta $5 por persona y es a partir de los 4 años.
¡Ofrecemos transporte gratis desde Avon!
Cupos / Spots: 14
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Socios / Partners: Colorado Trout Unlimited and Walking Mountains Science Center
Location: Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon
Date: 3 de Junio / June 3rd
GRATIS. Para todas las edades. Habrá pizza para el lonche. Venga a aprender acerca del arroyo Buck y a pescar con moscas. Vamos a enseñar a atar moscas y a pescar con ellas - No es necesario licencia de pesca para pescar este fin de semana.
¿Sabías que este fin de semana no es necesario tener una licencia de pesca? No te pierdas este taller donde enseñaremos cómo atar moscas y a pescar con ellas. Además tendrás la oportunidad de aprender mucho sobre el arroyo Buck. Este evento es para todas las edades y tendremos pizza para almorzar.
Cupos / Spots: 30
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Socios / Partners: Nature’s Educators and Walking Mountains Science Center
Location: Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon
Date: 28 de Junio / June 28
Time: 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Short description: GRATIS. Para todas las edades. In this program, we will dive into the characteristics that define raptors and why they are important to our ecosystems. Audiences will discover the various types of birds of prey found all over the world, what it takes to care for a bird of prey, and learn how Nature's Educators is permitted to keep raptors. The audience will learn about their personal histories, anatomy, hunting strategies, and habitats.
Este programa traerá aves cazadores y muchos otros tipos de pájaros incluyendo búhos para que aprendamos por qué son importantes para nuestros ecosistemas. Incluyendo información sobre la anatomía, las estrategias de caza y los hábitats. No pierdan la oportunidad de mirar y aprender sobre estos majestuosos animales.
¡Traerán aves vivas para mirarlas en persona!
Cupos / Spots: 30
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Mountain Youth works to make the community we live in a stronger, more vibrant place for youth and families through education, advocacy, and connections.
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