MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY

"The concept is simple but effective. You tap into the energy of young people to complete unmet service projects while developing their sense of playing a positive role in the community. Many people think that our communities are falling apart because cities don't have the funds to clean up and repair public parks and neighborhoods that have been neglected. We get this work done and people see how they, as individuals and as a team, can make a difference."
-Peter Bowman, Year One Crew Leader, 1992

MHYC's programs are centered on the belief that youth are a powerful resource and should be given the opportunity to contribute, make a difference and give back to the neighborhoods in which they live. MHYC works with project sponsors throughout the metro area to identify community needs that can be met through youth service projects. Throughout the year, MHYC crews completed much needed projects that improved neighborhoods, protected the environment and helped the disadvantaged. In most cases the work could not have been done without MHYC's help. The value of these projects is immeasurable. Not only did they provide lasting benefits to the community, but they also created opportunities for our young people to see that they can make a difference.

• 2008 PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

  In 2008 alone, 203 MHYC youth provided the community with more than 50,000 hours of service. Corpsmembers planted over 952 plants, flowers, bushes and trees, completed over 36 miles of trail work, provided 1,830 low-income households with energy and water savings and helped build 91 affordable housing units. 31 youth earned a GED and 91 youth earned an American Education Award, totaling $138,838 for post-secondary education.

  One project sponsor made the following comment on her evaluation.

  “We so appreciate how thoroughly you plan and execute everything you do. The young people are such a delight. Everything you do is top rate. A good example to people in our community. What a view of a positive future.”

• 2008 FEE-FOR-SERVICE-PROJECT SPONSORS

  Barr Lake State Park
  Castlewood Canyon State Park
  Cherry Creek State Park
  City of Aurora
  City of Littleton
  City of Lone Tree
  City of Westminster
  City of Wheat Ridge
  The Park People
  Denver Parks and Recreation: Natural Areas
  Denver Urban Gardens
  Douglas County Open Space
  Eldorado Canyon State Park
  Golden Gate Canyon State Park
  Ken-Caryl Ranch Master Association
  Rampart Range Motorized Management Committee
  Red Rocks Elementary School
  Roxborough State Park
  Staunton State Park
  US Fish & Wildlife at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal