Pagosa Community Initiative

The Pagosa Community Initiative (PCI), located in the heart of rural Pagosa Springs, is dedicated to creating a place of belonging and support for residents of Archuleta County. Since our inception in 2022, we have worked tirelessly to build a stronger, healthier, and more engaged community by providing interactive opportunities that honor culture, diversity, and inclusivity. Our mission is to increase wellness and create a better quality of life for Archuleta residents, particularly underserved youth and families, through a range of innovative programs and services.

At PCI, we offer out-of-school-time programming for K-12 students, family advocacy and support services, and adult education opportunities. Our youth programs are designed to foster character development, leadership skills, and community collaboration. We focus on creating safe, welcoming, and equitable spaces where children and teens can thrive. These programs are play-based and tailored to support emotional, social, and cognitive growth, while offering the only consistent after-school programming available outside of sports and religious activities. In 2023, PCI provided vital support to over 120 students, with 80% of them identified as at-risk or underserved. These students benefit from free, engaging activities that keep them safe and promote positive development during critical out-of-school hours.

In addition to our youth programs, PCI’s family services initiative aims to stabilize and strengthen families by offering parenting classes, guidance on navigating educational systems, and access to mental health resources. These services are designed to empower families, build resilience, and improve overall well-being, particularly for those who may face financial or social challenges. By offering support and resources, we help parents and caregivers build the skills and confidence they need to support their children’s growth and development.

Looking ahead, PCI is excited to expand our impact and further enhance our offerings to better serve the community. Our goals include integrating trained therapists into all aspects of our programming, creating specialized groups for LGBTQ+ youth and those struggling with mental health challenges, and expanding our adventure programming and community-based initiatives. We are also committed to growing our family services to provide even more support to families in need.

At PCI, we are proud to serve a diverse population, and our work is guided by the belief that everyone deserves a place to belong. Whether it’s providing a safe space for youth to gather, offering educational opportunities for adults, or helping families navigate difficult circumstances, our vision is to be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of Archuleta residents. We look forward to continuing our work, building on the strong foundation we've established, and creating more opportunities for growth, connection, and wellness in our community.