Since 2008, Educating Children of Color has worked to dismantle the cradle‑to‑prison pipeline in the Pikes Peak Region through programs that promote equity, empowerment, and education. We provide scholarships, mentoring, SAT/ACT prep, leadership and self-development experiences, and recognition opportunities to youth of color and youth in poverty who may not have otherwise had access. Our Summit brings national speakers to Colorado Springs, equipping families and professionals with tools to challenge systemic inequities and uplift youth. The Bridge Building Institute program works with professionals, community members, and advocates to help them explore their perspectives, understand how these shape their work, lives, and communities, and leverage their power to promote greater fairness and opportunity for all.
Too many students of color and low-income students face barriers that limit their potential. In 2023, Black youth were six times more likely to be in custody than white peers. We envision a future where every child can reach their full potential, regardless of background or identity. So far, Educating Children of Color has reached over 9,000 youth and given away over $628,000 in scholarships and educational gifts.
At the Zoo, a Leadership Academy student asked us, ‘How did you find this place?’ Many of our youth have never had opportunities like this to explore and grow. Donations cover rising trip costs, helping us to provide more life-changing field trips that instill confidence and spark curiosity.
None of the 300+ Leadership Academy students in 2024–25 entered the juvenile justice system, showing the program’s power to change trajectories for vulnerable youth.
““Attending [The Bridge Building Institute] was a powerful and emotional journey. It challenged the unconscious biases we all have and reminds us not to believe everything we think. Exploring these difficult topics in an open and safe setting allowed me to really hear where others were coming from.”” — A representative of CSPD who attended The Bridge Building Institute
Phone: (719) 640-6633