Fall 2023 Denver YouthCharge

Denver YouthCharge Mission Statement: 

Empower youth to drive positive change in the greater Denver community and engage in the philanthropic process. 

Need #1 - Environment/Climate Change

In one year, the city of Denver went from being the 8th worst city for air quality to the 7th (ALA). The effect of this can be tracked through the spikes in particle pollution that can cause lasting damage to those inhaling it. It is recorded that over 800 people die each year in Colorado due to ozone pollution and 11,000 nationally (Axios Denver). If we do not focus on minimizing air pollution we will put non-white and low-income Americans at a higher risk.

Need #2 - Suicide Prevention/Mental Health

21.5 out of every 100,000 people die of suicide in Colorado, and our state has the 7th highest suicide rate nationwide (CDC). Suicide is the leading cause of death for kids ages 10 to 14 in Colorado — higher even than accidental deaths. Our YouthCharge board finds this very alarming, especially when realizing that Colorado has the 5th highest suicide rate among youth. We are seeking to lower these rates and make Denver, and on a larger scale Colorado, a more safe and mentally rehabilitating state. In order to accomplish these goals, we would like to partner with a Colorado-run and not-for-profit, interest group. Suicide is an issue affecting various groups, such as LGBTQ+ youth and youth of color.  Based on research and personal experiences; we have seen that many youth struggle with mental health, or witness it among their peers. We feel that this is a topic that does not get the time and attention it needs in order to make progress.