UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO CANCER CENTER
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH & ENGAGEMENT
DECEMBER 23, 2025
The winter sun may feel gentle, but UV rays are still at work. Sun protection matters all year long.
SERVING THE COMMUNITY
WINTER SUN STILL COUNTS DON’T FORGET YOUR SUN PROTECTION
Winter sun can be easy to overlook, but harmful UV rays are present all year long and can be especially strong in Colorado due to higher elevations. Even on cold or cloudy days, unprotected skin is at risk for sun damage, which can increase the risk of skin cancer over time. Over the past year, our team reached nearly 900 people across the state with sun safety education, including Spanish-language sun protection messages shared on local radio. We also conducted more than 1,100 UV camera scans, helping community members see hidden sun damage that isn’t always visible to the naked eye. To support healthy, year-round habits, we distributed over 5,500 sun safety items such as sunscreen, hats, SPF lip balm, UV sleeves, and other protective materials throughout the community. Looking ahead, we’re continuing to expand access to sun protection by planning sunscreen dispensers at public pools when they open. Whether it’s winter or summer, protecting your skin from the sun is a simple step that can make a lasting difference for your health.
1538 radon test kits distributed
36 presentations given about sun protection and skin cancer
968 FIT kits distributed
303 events attended in 102 unique zip codes
347 signups on the 2Morrow tobacco/vaping cessation app
10,200 people reached at events with information on cancer education and prevention
MEET SINDY GONZALEZ COE STAFF HIGHLIGHT Why I chose COE: I chose COE because of my commitment to supporting my community and my belief that knowledge is a powerful tool for improving health. I value the opportunity to travel across the state to deliver bilingual cancer prevention education and provide our free resources. It is deeply rewarding to know that my work helps Coloradans better understand cancer prevention and early detection. My Interests: My professional interests center on public health initiatives that are accessible to everyone. I am particularly drawn to providing public health programs and education to youth with the goal of reducing long-term health burdens. I am committed to working directly with diverse communities to build strong partnerships, advance cancer prevention and early detection efforts, and address health disparities affecting rural, uninsured, and minority populations with limited access to care. As a bilingual professional, I value the importance of culturally and linguistically responsive communication in improving health outcomes. I am also committed to acknowledging and addressing Sindy Gonzalez, MPH the social determinants of health, ensuring that every project is COE Projects I Work On: 2Morrow Health, guided by evidence-based program development and assessment HPV Vaccination Navigation Program, RO1, and genuinely enhances the health and well-being of the and outreach events communities it serves.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS As we wrap up another year, we extend our sincere gratitude for your continued support and partnership. Your commitment helps drive our work to reduce cancer disparities across Colorado’s communities. We are truly grateful for all we’ve accomplished together. Wishing you a restorative and joyful holiday season filled with connection, peace, and moments that matter. Here’s to a bright, healthy, and hopeful year ahead! Warm wishes, Office of Community Outreach & Engagement (COE)