Pictured: Check recipients with the Board of Douglas County Commissioners
What’s up with youth today? In Douglas County, they’re influencing major funding decisions.
Following a public process – and with the guidance of local teens – the Board of Douglas County Commissioners announced the 31 youth activity programs that will benefit from the County’s portion of revenue from the sale of the Denver Broncos. Commissioners presented the checks during a regular Business Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 23.
“From safe driving classes to mental health programs and camps for children with developmental disabilities – the use of this one-time money is going to save and change lives through community partnerships,” said Commissioner Lora Thomas. “Our Board is thankful for the organizations that took the time to apply for this funding and our youth representatives for their work guiding our decision-making. We were truly impressed by their thoughtfulness.”
Douglas County received $939,363.21 in one-time funding from the sale of the Denver Broncos in 2022. As one of seven Counties in the Metropolitan Football Stadium District (MFSD), Douglas County was awarded the funds in late 2022 that, by law, must be used for youth activities programs.
The County asked the community for their ideas in 2023, and 45 proposals were submitted. The Youth Commission and Douglas County Youth Initiative reviewed the proposals and recommended $825,677 in funding to the Board of Douglas County Commissioners. The remaining $113,686 will be retained for future investments in innovative mental health programming. As part of the decision-making, the Board also hosted a Live Town Hall with youth panelists in September 2023.
To view all proposals and recipients, visit our webpage.