Youth Spotlight & Difference Maker | | |
Youth Spotlight: Makenzie Mitzelfelt
By Stevi Bratschie: Director of Community Education
| A jewelry maker, business owner, drummer, actor, clarinet player, dress designer, board member, and future author—you might imagine this list describing someone well into adulthood. In reality, these accomplishments belong to a bright and driven 14-year-old named Makenzie Mitzelfelt. | | |
Difference Maker: Alex Kandalaft
By Brenda Saucedo: Youth Engagement and Empowerment Coordinator
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In Eagle County, where mountain culture often celebrates athleticism and physical performance, one local leader is working to create space for a different kind of strength, one rooted in healing, connection, and self-acceptance.
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Forging Futures 2026 was an incredible success! The evening featured community leaders Norma Gurrola, Jordan Cox and Kaylee Bosse inspiring guests with their personal stories of resilience, overcoming adversity and the importance of having a sense of belonging within our community. Attendees were able to connect with one another while supporting Mountain Youth’s mission to continuously and collaboratively improve the lives of youth in the most powerful ways possible.
Forging Futures wouldn’t have been possible without the generous sponsorships offered by Vail Resorts Epic Promise Foundation, Alpine Bank, The Colorado Health Foundation, 1st & Main Investment Advisors, Community Banks of Colorado, Holy Cross Energy and Citrea and its wonderful staff for hosting. We’d also like to thank the EagleVail Golf Club, Eagle River Outfitters, the Redstone Inn, Alpine Acupuncture, Spa Anjali and the Bookworm for contributing gifts to the evening’s opportunity drawing.
All proceeds from Forging Futures will go directly towards supporting Mountain Youth programs such as Valley’s Voice, Tu Guía and Guiding Good Choices.
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Mountain Youth, in partnership with Vail Health, is offering scholarships to help Eagle County youth pay for their driver's education course! If you're eager to get your license don't let costs hold you back--apply today and take the next step toward freedom and opportunity!
| |  | Mountain Youth, en asociación con Vail Health, está ofreciendo becas para ayudar a los jóvenes del Condado de Eagle a pagar por su curso de educación de conductores! Si usted está entusiasmado por obtener su licencia no deje que los costos lo detengan - aplicar hoy y dar el siguiente paso hacia la libertad y la oportunidad! | | | |
Mountain Youth is excited to kick off the summer with our 5th annual Youthapalooza celebration! On June 4, Youthapalooza will provide over thirty community partners from throughout the Eagle River Valley with the opportunity to share their services and resources with youth and families at the Eagle Town Park from 12:00 – 2:00pm.
As the school year comes to a close, students begin to imagine all the free time they’ll have during the summer while their parents seek out ways to structure that time with fun and productive activities. The summer is also a time when many families miss out on supports and resources that are traditionally provided at schools.
Come learn more about how to have a busy, engaged summer on Thursday, June 4th at Eagle Town Park for a dunk tank, obstacle course & community partners at Youthapalooza!
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Mountain Youth está emocionado de comenzar el verano con nuestra 5ta celebración anual de Youthapalooza. El 4 de Junio, Youthapalooza brindara a mas de 30 organizaciones comunitarias de todo el valle de Eagle la oportunidad de compartir sus servicios y recursos con los jóvenes y familias en el Parque de Eagle, de 12:00-2:00 pm.
A medida que el año escolar llega a su fin los estudiantes comienzan a imaginar todo el tiempo libre que tendrán durante el verano, mientras que sus padres buscan formas de estructurar ese tiempo con actividades divertidas y productivas. El verano también es una época en la que muchas familias dejan de recibir los apoyos y recursos que tradicionalmente se ofrecen en las escuelas.
¡Vengan a informarse sobre como disfrutar de un verano activo! El jueves 4 de Junio en el parque de Eagle, donde vamos a tener un tanque de inmersión, una pista de obstáculos, y la presencia de organizaciones comunitarias en Youthapalooza!
| | | If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact Cam Dole, Senior Manager of Youth Engagement at cdole@mountainyouth.org | | | Si tiene alguna pregunta o quiere obtener más información, comuníquese con Cam Dole, Gerente Senior de Participación Juvenil en cdole@mountainyouth.org | | | |
Community Education
Educación social
| | Get your hands dirty and connect with nature at our young adult gardening workshop in Eagle! Learn the basics of growing your own food and stay for a delicious lunch with fellow nature lovers. | | | ¡Ensúciate las manos y conecta con la naturaleza en nuestro taller de jardinería para jóvenes adultos en Eagle! Aprende lo básico para cultivar tus propios alimentos y quédate a un delicioso almuerzo entre amantes de la naturaleza. | | | Aprende a preparar postres tradicionales mexicanos, desarolla nuevas habilidades y comparte momentos dulces en comunidad. | | In 2015 electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) have overtaken conventional cigarette smoking as the principal way that adolescents consume nicotine. And in 2016 the world was introduced to Juul and the wave of similar “podmod” products that followed. In just the past couple years, Zyn and other nicotine pouches are rapidly gaining popularity. These products are causing a sea change in the tobacco use landscape and leading many to wonder what, if any, harm nicotine itself poses, especially in the minds of those most vulnerable to adopting these new technologies: our young people. In this presentation Jim Pavlik, Sr. Program & Policy Analyst at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus’ Behavioral Health & Wellness Program, will discuss the significant risk of addiction nicotine poses and the role that nicotine addiction plays in developing future addictions and other mental health conditions. | | | En 2015, los sistemas electrónicos de administración de nicotina (ENDS) han superado al tabaquismo convencional como la principal forma en que los adolescentes consumen nicotina. Y en 2016 el mundo fue introducido a Juul y la ola de productos similares “podmod” que siguió. En solo los últimos años, Zyn y otras bolsas de nicotina están ganando popularidad rápidamente. Estos productos están causando un cambio radical en el panorama del consumo de tabaco y llevando a muchos a preguntarse qué daño, si es que alguno, representa la nicotina en sí, especialmente en las mentes de los más vulnerables a la adopción de estas nuevas tecnologías: Nuestros jóvenes. En esta presentación, Jim Pavlik, Analista de Programas y Políticas en el Programa de Salud Conductual y Bienestar de la Universidad de Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, discutirá el riesgo significativo de adicción que representa la nicotina y el papel que juega la adicción a la nicotina en el desarrollo de futuras adicciones y otras condiciones de salud mental. | | | Eagle County is home to some of the best trout fishing that the country has to offer, but licensing, expensive gear and a culture of gate-keeping can make it intimidating for newcomers to get started. On Saturday, June 6, Mountain Youth and Exploremos will be at Bighorn Park in Vail, providing all of the gear and expertise necessary for our community members to become self-sufficient anglers. Come by yourself or bring the whole family, no fishing license required! | | | |
El condado de Eagle alberga algunas de las mejores oportunidades para la pesca de trucha en el país, pero la licencia, el equipo costoso y una cultura de exclusión pueden hacer que sea intimidante para quienes recién comienzan. El sábado 6 de junio, Mountain Youth y Exploremos estarán en Bighorn Park en Vail, proporcionando todo el equipo y la experiencia necesarios para que los miembros de nuestra comunidad se conviertan en pescadores autosuficientes.
¡Ven por tu cuenta o trae a toda la familia, no se requiere licencia de pesca!
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Family Skill Building
Desarrollo de habilidades familiares
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This monthly meeting is an opportunity for graduates of Mountain Youth's family skills building and parenting classes to connect with other parents and caregivers, and have a guided conversation on topics such as healthy communication, boundaries, discipline, and more!
We hope to see you there!
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Esta reunión mensual es una oportunidad para que los graduados de los cursos de desarrollo de habilidades familiares y crianza de Mountain Youth se conecten con otros padres y cuidadores, y tengan una conversación guiada sobre temas como comunicación saludable, límites, disciplina y más.
¡Esperamos verte allí!
| | | Join us for the We Hear U program—a supportive, engaging class designed to help families strengthen their skills in setting boundaries, improving communication, and using natural consequences effectively. With summer just around the corner, it's the perfect time to gain tools and confidence for a smoother, more connected season with your kids. | | Únase a nosotros para el programa We Heart U, una clase de apoyo y atractiva diseñada para ayudar a las familias a fortalecer sus habilidades para establecer límites, mejorar la comunicación y usar las consecuencias naturales de manera efectiva. Con el verano a la vuelta de la esquina, es el momento perfecto para ganar herramientas y confianza para una temporada más suave y conectada con sus hijos. | | |
Substance Use Intervention Programs
Programas de intervención en el consumo de sustancias
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Ready to break free from nicotine? Dimensions helps you build real skills, set your own goals, and get the support you need to quit for good. The next session for high schoolers starts February 4th and runs through February 18th.
| | | ¿Listo para liberarse de la nicotina? Dimensions te ayuda a desarrollar habilidades reales, establecer tus propias metas y obtener el apoyo que necesitas para dejar de fumar para siempre. La próxima sesión para estudiantes de secundaria comienza el 4 de febrero y se extiende hasta el 18 de febrero. | | | |
Calendar of Community Events
Calendario de Eventos Comunitarios
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Location: Battle Mountain High School
Date: Thursday, May 7, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Strong communities are built when nonprofit leaders intentionally create opportunities for people to be heard, contribute, and shape solutions that affect their lives. Building on the ideas introduced in Building Bridges, this session focuses on how organizations translate shared purpose and community values into meaningful engagement practices.
Contact info: maren@vailvalleypartnership.com
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ECSD Head Start and Early Childhood recruitment
Location: Edwards Early Learning Center and Gypsum Early Learning Center
Date: Now Accepting Applications
Registration is open for Eagle COunty School District's Early Childhood programs, serving infants to 4 year olds across Eagle County, including state-funded Universal Preschool and federally funded Head Start. Submit your application with the ECSD Early Childhood office in person or online.
Contact info: East of Wolcott: ann.avila@eagleschools.net
West of Wolcott: fatima.becerrasoto@eagleschools.net
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Volunteer Orientation
Location: SpeakUp ReachOut Office
706 Chambers Avenue, Unit 3, Eagle, CO, 81631
Date: May 13, 2026, 5:00 - 7:30pm
Come check out the variety of opportunities to volunteer with SpeakUp ReachOut at our events and in-school programming. This orientation includes a brief overview of our organization, information on ways to get involved, and a FREE Talk Saves Lives suicide prevention training. Dinner is included.
Contact info: info@speakupreachout.org
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Soul Dirt - Ciclismo de montaña con Exploremos
Location: Eagle Bike Park
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 5:30 - 8:00pm
¡Únete a Soul Dirt para un paseo en bicicleta de montaña con Exploremos!
Join Soul Dirt for a mountain bike ride with Exploremos!
Contact info: shawna@vvmta.org
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MVHR Summer Day Camp Registration
Location: MVHR Ranch, McCoy, with transportation from Wolcott
Date: June 6 - August 6
Registration for all Summer Day Camps is OPEN! More information is available by clicking the links below prior to registration opening.
Summer Day Camp with Transportation from Wolcott- Eagle County: June 9-10-11, June 16-17-18, June 22-23-24-25, July 28-29-30 and August 4-5-6.
Contact info: programs@mvhr.net
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Pride in the Park
Location: Avon, CO
Date: Saturday, June 13, 12:00 - 6:00pm
Save the Date - Pride in the Park is a day-long celebration that draws visitors from throughout the mountains of Colorado. Saturday's celebration has a jam-packed schedule of activities designed to keep everyone interested and engaged. Numerous local organizations, businesses, and vendors participate in the celebration. The Drag Show and Parade around Nottingham Lake are the festival's focal points.
Contact info: orlando@mountainpride.org
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Summer Solstice Trail Run
Location: Beaver Creek Resort, Avon, CO
Date: June 20, 2026
Kid's Fun Run at 9:00am, 10K at 9:15am, 5K at 9:30am
Coinciding with the longest day of the year, the Summer Solstice trail run is arguably the most enjoyable Vail Trail Running Series race. Beginning and ending in the lawn in front of the Beaver Creek Chophouse, adjacent to the Centennial lift in the heart of Beaver Creek, Colorado, the Summer Solstice sends runners through and around the resort community. Participants follow a 10K or 5K course through and around the resort community.
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Beaver Creek Open
Location: Beaver Creek Tennis & Pickleball Center
Date: August 6 - 7, 2026
The 2nd Annual Beaver Creek Open returns as the Vail Valley's premier racquet sports celebration — welcoming players of all levels for two days of competitive tennis and pickleball.
With 144+ players, a semi-pro bracket featuring $1,500 in prize money, and the Vail Valley Charitable Fund as title sponsor, this year's event is bigger than ever. Join the community for a silent auction and a celebration with food and drinks. All levels welcome.
Contact info: Terri Reichert - terri@vvcf.org
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LG TRI
Location: Sienna Valley Club, Gypsum, CO
Date: July 11, 2026
Race begins at 7:00am, Kids event begins at 9:30am
The 18th Annual LG Tri is a highly anticipated sprint triathlon that honors long-time local and VVCF grant recipient Laura Genelin. The course features a 500-yard swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 5K run. Bring the whole family, as kids are welcome to participate in the Kids Tri! Join us for bib pick-up and a silent auction preview the evening before.
Contact info: Terri Reichert - terri@vvcf.org
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Eating Disorder Peer Support Group
Location: 48 E Beaver Creek Blvd, Suite 210, Avon, CO or Google Meet
Date: Wednesdays @ 5:30 - 6:30pm
A safe and open space for anyone who has been impacted by an eating disorder, disordered eating, or body dysmorphia. This space is also open to anyone who is supporting someone who has been impacted. Connect with peers who have shared lived experience.
Contact info: Alex Kandalaft - alex@bodykindvail.org
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Ride Welcome Event
Location: Eagle Bike Park
Date: Saturday, May 16, 11:00 - 2:00pm
Another summer of RIDE begins soon.
Vail Valley RIDE half-day and full-day camp registration opens February 2nd.
Camps serve kids ages 5–11, with our RIDE Mentorship Program available for ages 12–14.
Half-day camps focus on mountain biking skills and confidence on the trail.
Full-day camps include two days of climbing at Eagle Climbing + Fitness and two days of art with Dewey Dabbles, alongside time on the bike.
Where kids grow confidence, connection, and courage through the joy of riding bikes.
Interested in the RIDE Mentorship Program?
Send us an email to learn more.
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Vail Valley RIDE Summer MTB Camps
Location: Eagle, CO
Date: Registration opens February 2, Camps start June 1
Another summer of RIDE begins soon.
Vail Valley RIDE half-day and full-day camp registration opens February 2nd.
Camps serve kids ages 5–11, with our RIDE Mentorship Program available for ages 12–14.
Half-day camps focus on mountain biking skills and confidence on the trail.
Full-day camps include two days of climbing at Eagle Climbing + Fitness and two days of art with Dewey Dabbles, alongside time on the bike.
Where kids grow confidence, connection, and courage through the joy of riding bikes.
Interested in the RIDE Mentorship Program?
Send us an email to learn more.
Contact info: ride@vailvalleyride.com
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Mountain Recreation Summer Camps
Location: Edwards, Eagle, Gypsum and beyond!
Date: June - August
Short description: Summer camp registration is underway and spots are filling fast! From gymnastics and e-sports to skateboarding and outdoor adventures, there’s something for every interest and energy level. Explore our popular Rec Kids Day Camps, Sports Camps and Outdoor Rec Camps and secure your spot for an unforgettable summer today.
Contact info: info@mountainrec.org
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Outdoor Gear Library
Location: Gypsum Rec Center and Edwards Field House
Date: Wednesdays & Thursdays @ 5:30 - 7:30pm
Our Outdoor Gear Library is back and ready to help you gear up for your next adventure. This membership-based community resource offers Eagle County residents access to a diverse range of outdoor equipment, making it easier and more affordable to enjoy the outdoors. The library is open from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Gypsum Rec Center and on Thursdays at the Edwards Field House.
Contact info: zrodriguez@mountainrec.org
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Very Young Composers of Vail
Location: Homestake Peak School
Date: July 20-24, 27-29
Very Young Composers, a program of Youth Power in partnership with the New York Philharmonic and The Playground Ensemble, allows students of all backgrounds to create their own musical piece from start to finish, during a week-long workshop. With the help of teaching artists, students learn to compose for different instruments, write a short story, and set the story to music in a step-by-step process. The program will culminate in a public performance of all the student compositions by members of the New York Philharmonic and area professional musicians.
Contact info: conrad@conradkehn.com
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The Eagle River Valley is a place whose beauty draws people in from all over the world, but once here, it can be hard for newcomers to find their place in the community. Kaylee Bosse, a Personal Banking Representative at Alpine Bank, found this out first hand when she moved to Avon three years ago. While she was born in Vail, Kaylee grew up in Clair, New Brunswick, one of the smallest towns in Canada, a place where everyone knows everyone. For Kaylee, Clair provided a sense of familiarity that allowed her a certain level of comfort.
Feeling a sense of adventure and a longing for the mountains where she was born, Kaylee left the comfort of Clair for the majestic beauty of Eagle County. Upon arrival, Kaylee began working at Alpine Bank, and while she was able to form meaningful connections, she struggled with finding her place in the community outside of work. This all changed when Lula Sandoval, Regional Operations Officer at Alpine Bank and a Mountain Youth board member, introduced Kaylee to MOYA, Mountain Youth’s newly established program for young adults.
Through MOYA, Kaylee not only found her place within the community, she also discovered a way for her to make a positive impact on her peers. According to Cam Dole, Mountain Youth’s Senior Manager of Youth Engagement, “Getting to work with Kaylee is an incredible opportunity. She is always smiling, supporting MOYA, and thinking of how to improve the young adult work we're doing, and beyond. A great inclusion to the Eagle Valley community, and we're so grateful to work with her here at Mountain Youth!” Kaylee has been an incredible addition to Alpine Bank and Mountain Youth, and her example will help inspire other young adults to find their place in the community.
| | | Want to join the team in helping youth and families thrive? Start today by filling out our volunteer form! | | ¿Quiere unirse a nuesro equipo para ayudar a los jóvenes y las familias a prosperar? ¡Empiece hoy completando nuestro formulario de registro de voluntario! | | Stay Up To Date On Our Work By Following Our Social Media | | |
Mountain Youth works to make the community we live in a stronger, more vibrant place for youth and families through education, advocacy, and connections.
Learn more at www.mountainyouth.org.
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