The Aspen E ect provides programs for local youth

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Just like the interconnected root system of an aspen tree, the nonpro t organization, e Aspen E ect, aims to connect with youth and give them support and mentoring so they know they don’t have to stand alone.

“ e mission at e Aspen E ect is to help kids become more resilient by reimagining themselves in a positive way,” said Jerry Van Leuven, founder and executive director of the nonpro t organization.

About six years ago, Leuven started a summer program for teenagers called Ranch Hand Leadership Academy. rough the program, the teens found ways to problem solve, resolve con icts and learn how to support and motivate each other.

Within a couple of years, Leuven noticed kids needed an alternative in their lives that they could draw strength from. He saw the apparent e ect COVID-19 had on the mental health of youth.

When it comes to the prevalence of children’s mental illness and access to care, the 2021 State of Mental Health in America Report for children and youth ranked Colorado 42nd in the country.

According to Partners for Children’s Mental Health, suicide is a leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 24 in Colorado. In addition, nearly 22% of youth who have mental illness with severe impairment are receiving care.

Youth mental health became a great concern during the pan- demic. e Children’s Hospital Colorado

During a pediatric mental health media roundtable event, CEO of Children’s Hospital Colorado Jena Hausmann declared a youth mental health “state of emergency” in 2021, leading to the appointment of Dr. Ron-Li Liaw, as the hospital’s inaugural Mental Health-in-Chief in addition to her serving as chair of the Pediatric Mental Health Institute.