Who
We Are
We are a nonprofit after school and summer youth program in Denver’s Sun Valley neighborhood. Empowering the youth of Sun Valley to reach their god-potential is our mission.
Our team is deeply rooted in the neighborhood and committed to walking alongside each child in their journey.
Our youth are bright, resilient, and full of possibility. Even when growing up in one of Denver’s most under-resourced neighborhoods, they show up every day with curiosity, courage, and a fierce desire to learn, lead, and grow. They are artists, athletes, helpers, dreamers, and future leaders who remind us daily that potential thrives when kids feel safe, seen, and supported.
Our families, volunteers, and community partners stand alongside Sun Valley youth with time, resources, and encouragement.
About Sun Valley
Denver’s Sun Valley neighborhood, encompassing .649 square miles, is nestled immediately south of Empower Field and sits between Federal, 8th Avenue and the Platte River. For many years, people from all over the world, including immigrants and refugees, have made this area their home, creating a rich and lively culture. But it has also struggled with high crime rates, poverty, and low school performance.
Sun Valley may be small and under-resourced, but it’s full of heart. It’s a diverse, close-knit neighborhood where everyone knows each other, and the community sticks together through thick and thin.
Youth Center History and Background
The Sun Valley Youth Center started in 1998 after a group of local leaders, residents, and service providers saw that kids in the neighborhood needed more support. Sun Valley was dealing with a lot of challenges like crime, poverty, and low school performance, so the decision was made to focus on helping the youth. Founded by the Christian Reformed Churches, the Center welcomes families of all socioeconomic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Our Team
The heart of Sun Valley Youth Center is our dedicated team of caring adults who show up every day with consistency, creativity, and compassion. Many of us grew up in or near the neighborhood, and all share a deep commitment to the kids and families we serve.
Trained in trauma-informed care and restorative practices, our staff is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where every young person feels seen, valued, and capable of achieving their goals.