August 2025 Newsletter
Dear Friends,
As summer turns to fall, I find myself reflecting on just how much joy, growth, and connection filled these past few months. From our youth building towers and s’mores alongside engineers, to families cheering together at their very first Broncos game, to alumni gathering in backyards to celebrate life’s journeys — each story is a reminder of what makes this community so extraordinary.
At Colorado Dream Foundation, our work is never just about programs. It’s about people — the young Dreamers stepping bravely into their futures, the families who remain at the heart of our mission, and the partners and staff who walk beside them every step of the way. Together, we are creating spaces of belonging, opportunities for learning, and lasting relationships that reach far beyond a single season.
Thank you for being part of this story. Your support makes every moment possible — and every Dreamer seen, valued, and celebrated.
With gratitude,
Kaye Taavialma, CEO
Mission Moment
A glimpse into what we do and why we do it.
“Our organization was invited by the Emerson engineering company in Boulder to visit their facility. We took a group of 4th through 6th graders and were immediately greeted with open arms. The youth were given a run down of what this organization creates and met actual engineers. The Emerson group then launched into a team building activity with Legos where each you designed their own piece of machinery before assembling the finished product. The youth were engaged and worked together as a team, aided by actual engineers and the Colorado Dream staff. Following this, our youth got to do several other activities including a STEM tower building challenge, and an exercise on proper communication in which youth got to assemble s’mores. The Emerson group graciously treated us to lunch, which several youth commented, "Was the best lunch we've had all summer!” Youth were allowed to tour the actual factory before designing their own bucket hats and playing engineering bingo. Our youth left feeling appreciated and respected. It was an honor to be there, and the team at Emerson made our youth feel capable about the possibilities of their future and seen by a massive global company.”
Bobby McGreal, Summer Camp Lead Instructor
Once a Dreamer, Always a Dreamer
This month, we were gifted tickets to the Broncos v. Cardinals pre-season game, and the joy those seats brought is still ringing in our hearts. We were able to send four families to the stadium—three of them from Z-Place, the site we so lovingly closed in July due to funding cuts. For two of those families, it was their very first time experiencing the magic of a live game, and the excitement on their faces told the story better than words ever could.
While we may no longer run daily programs at Z-Place, our connection to those families has not ended. We hold true to the promise that “Once a Dreamer, Always a Dreamer.” These families are part of our community, part of our story, and part of our future. Experiences like this remind us that while programs may shift, the relationships and sense of belonging we build will always endure.
Our Z-Place families remain close to our hearts, and we are committed to finding ways, big and small, to celebrate them and walk alongside them. The Broncos game was just one joyful reminder that even when doors close, the spirit of community and care remains wide open.
Moments like these are why we do what we do—and why we’ll never stop showing up for our families.
Dreamers of the Month
This summer, one of our alumni groups—the Rocky Mountain Dreamers—reunited for a joyful backyard BBQ hosted by their former Program Manager, Sara Ewing. The gathering brought together about 25 people, including nine Dreamers, a longtime staff member, family members, partners, and even Rob and Molly Cohen. Two Dreamers traveled from out of state just to be there, a testament to the lasting bonds of this community.
L-R: Siede Constance-Brown jumpsuit; Oumar Diallo-Blue shirt; Saron Hailesalassie-Red dress; Tsehai Teklehaimanot-staff person; Flora Tadele-Light blue dress; Sara Ewing, RMD Program Manager; Thomas Bropleh-tall in back; Bre’Ana Smith-in back; Simfoni Crowley-Green dress; Jazzarie Fejeran-Floral dress; Rob Cohen, RMD Sponsor; Shaquille Weston; Molly Cohen, RMD Sponsor
The afternoon was filled with laughter, food, and stories of where life has taken each Dreamer since their time in program. Their journeys are inspiring and as varied as they are: an epidemiologist, two mental health therapists, a realtor, a hairstylist, an HR director who also runs a princess party business, a professional basketball player overseas, a full-time mom, and more. These stories remind us that the paths our young people take may look different, but the spirit of determination, growth, and connection is woven through them all.
For Sara, it was deeply meaningful to see her Dreamers thriving and to know that the relationships built years ago are still alive today. “I loved seeing them, but it was also nice for them to see each other,” she shared. The simple act of gathering sparked new conversations, encouraged reconnections, and even opened the door for her to catch up with alumni who couldn’t attend but reached out after receiving the invite.
The group has already decided this will be an annual tradition, and we couldn’t be more excited to see how it continues to grow. The Rocky Mountain Dreamers showed us once again that the community we build together is for life.
August Updates
Youth Programs
Adam Betancourt, Senior Director of Youth Programs
Summer Camp 2025
Summer Camp at Z Place had multiple visits from different partners that brought their professional and creative expertise to our dreamers’ classrooms. I would like to highlight one of our shining moments from our partnerships in which our dreamers were able to learn and experience the world and profession of a florist.
Towards the end of the summer, the Z Place program was visited by Sophie Jeannelle of Wild Swan Floral- a local freelance florist that specializes in all things flowers from small bouquets to large weddings. Sophie was able to take a small group of youth ranging from 3rd-8th grade for a mini session on the day-to-day life of a florist. Dreamers learned the in’s and out’s of the career side of floral. Going over wedding design, shop design and examples of different types of arrangements that can be made. Additionally, dreamers learned about flowers local to the state of Colorado as well as an array of flowers that were imported from around the world that are used in different forms of design. Youth were able to hear about the benefits of the career as well as some of the challenges many florists face. At the end of the presentation, Sophie engaged with the dreamers in a Q&A session, where our youth were able to get any remaining questions answered and further their interest.
Sophie also facilitated a bouquet session where all dreamers designed an arrangement with the guidance and support of a professional. Youth were able to experience flowers not just something that grows in a garden or sits as a centerpiece but as a creative and fulfilling career path.
Cain Cox, Lead Instructor
Start of School Year 2026
In August, the team launched afterschool program planning by aligning on core values, setting program guardrails, and dedicating multiple full‑day sessions to collaborative preparation. Key kickoff events included “We Not Me” planning days and the Family Orientation Night for caregivers of youth in 3rd- 8th grades.
The afterschool program officially opens September 2 at Blossom House, serving students in grades 3–12 and operating Monday through Friday from 2:30 – 6:00 pm. Highlights for the semester include an Open House for high school families on September 17 and a rich schedule of project‑based learning, choice clubs, college and career exploration, and social‑emotional learning opportunities — all designed to create a welcoming, empowering space. We are accepting registrations through September- visit our website for more information or follow this link to register your youth.
We are all looking forward to a fun-filled school year!
Beyond Dreams Therapy
Aimee Alcorn, Senior Director of Clinical Programs
FY 2025 was a year of exciting growth for Beyond Dreams Therapy. We expanded into new sites, launched fresh initiatives, and strengthened our clinical team by building a clear pipeline for future therapists.
Looking ahead to FY 2026, our focus is on sustaining this progress with intention. We’re working to fine-tune operations, support clinicians in maintaining full and balanced caseloads, and continue raising the quality and consistency of care across every site.
One highlight from last year was transitioning four interns into our Associate Behavioral Health Therapist role, a fellowship program designed to support new clinicians during their first year after graduate school. We also welcomed five new clinical interns from Metropolitan State University, the University of Denver, and Regis University.
This year we are proud to be piloting the Therapist in the Community program, placing clinicians directly in spaces where families learn and receive resources. The program is being launched at Ricardo Flores Magón Academy and at two Denver Public Schools Community Hubs (Central and Northwest), expanding access to care by meeting families where they are.
Personnel Updates for 2026
Kaye Taavialma, Chief Executive Officer
Administrative Team
Jennifer Stucklen joined our team in August of 2025 as our Operations & Communications Manager. She is excited to be a part of the Colorado Dream Foundation because its mission resonates deeply with her. She finds it meaningful to help youth and their families navigate school, college, and their careers with support at every step. She looks forward to contributing her skills in operations and communications to make a positive impact.
Youth Programs
August 12th was a momentous day for our out-of-school time (OST) program as we onboarded 4 new staff members- 3 of which are new positions at our organization. Those new positions are: Director of Post-Secondary Success, Lead High School Instructor, and High School Instructor. These positions are a product of reimagining our OST program for our high school youth and also introducing our first high school senior class in 9 years. Read below for a bit more about our newest members:
Erin Fernandez, Director of Post-Secondary Success - Erin is an empathetic and inclusive leader dedicated to creating environments of belonging and fostering strong community connections. With a career spanning youth engagement, leadership development, and social-emotional learning, she is delighted to partner with families and community in the Westwood neighborhood to inspire the next generation and our Dreamers from the Class of 2026.
Josue Silva, Lead High School Instructor - Josue is a bilingual community engagement and culture leader with a talent for building strong relationships and fostering inclusive environments. As a former Dean of Culture, he championed restorative justice practices, and supported youth and families through systems advocacy. He is thrilled to continue collaborating with families and the Westwood community to further impact our high school youth.
Hannah Edwards Martinez, High School Instructor - Hannah is a sociology professor and researcher whose work bridges education, public health, and community impact. In addition to working part time with us, she currently teaches at the Community College of Denver, developing engaging curricula and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration within the Social and Behavioral Sciences department. She is excited to be supporting our high school youth by continuing her deep commitment to equitable educational access for all youth.
Zoraya Martinez, 7th & 8th Grade Instructor - Zoraya is a youth development leader and community mentor passionate about guiding young people toward confident, successful futures. Zoraya came to us by way of Instructor at our Summer Camp at Z Place and now will continue to grow her impact in the Westwood community. She is pursuing her degree in Human Development and Family Studies, with double minors in Social Work and Psychology, while dedicating part of her time to continuing mentoring our youth and building connections with our families and community.
Clinical Programs (Beyond Dreams Therapy)
Early summer 2025 brought role transitions for four of our Clinical Interns from the 2024-2025 school year. They shifted to Associate Behavioral Health Therapists (ABHT) which is a new role for the organization that is designed to continue providing clinical career pathways for budding therapists. These ABHTS provide direct, 1:1 and small-group Mental Health counseling at any one of our 7 therapy locations!
Akilah Martin, LPCC - Akilah graduated from the University of Denver with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She shares that she is “excited to work with Colorado Dream Foundation because its mission opens doors for youth and families, helping them see new possibilities, overcome barriers, and find support in their journey.” Akilah started at CDF over three years ago as an instructor, transitioned to being a Clinical Intern, and continues her journey as an ABHT at Z Place!
Alyssa Karrasch, LPCC - Alyssa graduated from The Chicago School with a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling. She is “...”. Alyssa works primarily out of Z place!
Essence Benson, MSW, LSW - Essence graduated from Metropolitan State University with a Master of Social Work. She is excited to continue this work with us, because “...” Essence is piloting our Therapist in Community program out of the two Community Hubs!
Lissette Uribe, MSW, LSW - Lissette graduated from Metropolitan State University with a Master of Social Work. She is excited to continue at CDF because “...education is a value I hold close, and CDF’s mission creates learning and growth opportunities that help youth, families, and communities build a stronger future.” Lissette started at CDF over three years ago as an instructor, then transitioned to completing two years as an Intern with us, and continues her journey as an ABHT, piloting our Therapist in Community program out of Ricardo Flores Magón Academy, providing therapy primarily in Spanish!
Throughout the summer, we have welcomed five new Clinical Interns to the team. They are Master level students studying counseling or social work who will spend the year with us providing 1:1 and small group Mental Health Therapy to clients across all of our locations!
Henry Schuler, Master of Counseling Candidate - Henry is working on his Masters degree at University of Denver. He comes with a lot of experience working with youth in various capacities and whole heartedly believes that all “humans, especially children, are so intertwined with the systems and people around them. Each part of their lives contribute to building who they are…”. Henry will work primarily out of our Westwood and Blossom House locations.
Kady Mohammad, Master of Counseling Candidate - Kady is pursuing her Masters degree at University of Denver and originally is from Kuwait. She is looking forward to her time at CDF and feels this work reflects a true commitment to diversity and accessibility, while also fostering strong communication and support not only for the youth and families it serves but also for the employees who make the work possible. Kady will be at Blossom House primarily and is able to offer therapy sessions in Arabic!
Kate Crowley, Master of Social Work Candidate - Kate is working on her Master of Social Work degree from Metropolitan State University - Denver. Kate believes that every child deserves the chance and opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential and she is excited to support them in that journey through exploring their mental health. She will be working primarily out of our Z Place location
Rysa Bryan, Master of International Disaster Psychology Candidate - Rysa is pursuing her Master’s degree at the University of Denver and is originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands. The work at CDF inspires Rysa because it highlights the importance of emotional well-being, helping people build resilience, healthier relationships, and new perspectives. Rysa will join the team in supporting the community to reach its full potential at Z Place.
Will Murphy, Master of Counseling Candidate - Will is working on his Master’s degree at Regis University. Will was drawn to the work we do at CDF because he loves “the emphasis on partnering with families and supporting their success. The holistic approach is so important to me as it is essential to look at an individual as dynamic and unique and constantly adjust and adapt to their needs. Will is seeing clients at our Z Place location.
Partnerships Update
Josh Meyer, Senior Manager of Grants & Partnerships
Colorado Dream Foundation is proud to announce we have been selected as a recipient of a 2025 Community Grant from the Taco Bell Foundation. The funding will support our out-of-school time program, helping Denver youth access essential resources to achieve their goals.
“This grant allows us to reach more students with the tools and guidance they need to build a successful future,” said Josh Meyer, Senior Manager of Grants & Development. “We’re grateful to the Taco Bell Foundation and Alvarado Restaurant Nation for believing in our mission and investing in the potential of our youth.”
The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record-breaking $28 million in Community Grants this year to nearly 500 nonprofit organizations nationwide. The Community Grants program uplifts youth in the communities that matter most to Taco Bell – those of its fans and Team Members. True to the brand’s spirit, the Taco Bell Foundation supports nonprofits that think differently and take bold approaches to creating new opportunities for young people.
Colorado Dream Foundation was nominated for the grant by local Taco Bell franchisee Alvarado Restaurant Nation whose continued commitment to uplifting youth has helped expand access to education, mentorship, and career readiness programs across the community.
We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you! Colorado Dream Foundation has been awarded a multi-year grant from the Caring for Denver Foundation to support youth wellness in our out-of-school time program. This grant is a part of an initiative to support nonprofit community organizations and city agencies that provide resources to reduce crisis and strengthen resilience among Denver youth. The grant will empower the Colorado Dream Foundation to advance our mission of delivering holistic academic, social, and emotional support, as we guide students from elementary school through college and career, equipping them for lifelong success.
Thank you, Denver, for supporting healing and recovery in our community!
