The Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) is thrilled to invite you to our upcoming Job Fair! If you’re looking for a unique position, a fun and dynamic work environment, and real opportunities for growth, this is the perfect event for you.
Since its debut in May 1986, the HRCA Newsletter, previously called The Hometown Herald, has been the heartbeat of Highlands Ranch. What began as a simple newsletter created by Joni Blackman, Dave Long, Chuck Bromley, and Jim Pilcher has grown into a comprehensive source of information for our thriving community of over 100,000 residents. Through every season of growth, it has remained a trusted connection between neighbors and the story of our community.
Today, the HRCA Newsletter is packed with everything you need to know about life in Highlands Ranch. From events, programs, camps, and classes to Job Fairs, arts and cultural opportunities, and delegate and board elections, it keeps you in the loop. You’ll also find essential updates on community safety, construction projects and road closures, covenants and assessments, and the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Plus, it delivers important messages from our partners, including Highlands Ranch Water, Douglas County, and the Highlands Ranch Metro District.
If you want to stay informed, get involved, and make the most of all our community has to offer, this is the resource to read every month. Copies are mailed directly to your home, available at kiosks in all recreation centers, and posted online. For added convenience, sign up to receive a digital version delivered straight to your inbox at the start of each month. Don’t miss out—reading The HRCA Newsletter keeps you connected, informed, and part of the story of Highlands Ranch. Make it a monthly habit and stay at the center of our vibrant community.
My best,
Mike Bailey CEO/General Manager
Highlands Ranch Community Association
HRCA Job Fair
Continued from page 1.
HRCA is always on the lookout for hardworking, energetic individuals who want to be part of a team that makes a difference in our community. Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or seasonal employment, HRCA has a variety of opportunities to match your skills and interests. Working with us comes with incredible perks, including health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, access to our outstanding facilities, and much more. It’s not just a job—it’s a chance to join a vibrant community dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our residents.
Departments currently hiring include: Aquatics – Lifeguards, swim instructors, and swim coaches.
Arts & Education – Preschool staff, Pottery Teacher and Summer Camp Staff. No coordinator positions.
Backcountry Wilderness Area – Outdoor program leaders and support staff.
Sports – Coaches, referees, and fitness instructors.
To make the most of the Job Fair, we recommend applying online ahead of time at HRCAonline.org/Careers. When completing your application, please indicate “JOB FAIR” in response to question five so our team knows you’ll be attending.
Don’t worry if you haven’t applied yet—laptops will be available on-site to complete applications and get assistance from our staff.
At the Job Fair, you’ll have the opportunity to meet hiring managers, ask questions, and even interview on the spot. It’s your chance to explore a variety of career paths and discover where your skills and passions fit best within HRCA. We are excited to meet motivated individuals ready to contribute to our community and grow professionally.
Mark your calendar and join us on Saturday, April 11! Come explore career opportunities, meet our team, and take the first step toward an exciting future with the Highlands Ranch Community Association. Your next career adventure starts here!
The Big Help Returns to the Backcountry Wilderness Area
Join us for The Big Help, a community volunteer event in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. This annual day of service, which lines up near Earth Day and Arbor Day, brings neighbors, families, and nature lovers together to care for our local wild place. Volunteers will roll up their sleeves to help with meaningful projects that support the habitat and community areas. Activities may include habitat improvement, cactus removal, painting, horse corral cleanup, and general efforts that help keep the landscape safe and welcoming for both wildlife and visitors.
The Backcountry Wilderness Area is more than just a scenic place to hike—it’s an important home for local wildlife and a living classroom where people of all ages can connect with nature. By participating in The Big Help, volunteers play a direct role in protecting this special landscape while supporting environmental education and outdoor experiences for the community. No special skills are required—just a willingness to lend a hand and spend a morning outdoors. Staff will provide guidance, tools, and project assignments, and volunteers will have the chance to work alongside fellow community members who share a love for the outdoors. Families, individuals, and groups are all welcome. It’s a great opportunity for students needing service hours, families looking for a meaningful way to spend time together, or anyone who wants to give back to the place that gives so much to our community.
Scan the QR code below to RSVP.
Date: Saturday, April 25
Time: 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: Bakcountry Wilderness Area, 6005 Ron King Trail
HRCA Aquatics Team Wins 2025 Silver International Award!
We’re proud to announce that the HRCA Aquatics team has earned the 2025 Silver International Aquatic Safety Award from Ellis & Associates! Only the top 49% of facilities receive this honor, meaning our swimmers enjoy the highest level of protection available.
“We’re really proud of these recognitions,” says Tyler Kurapkat, HRCA Aquatics Manager. “They reflect the ongoing effort our lifeguards put into training, staying alert, and taking their responsibility seriously. For us, it’s a tangible way to measure success—making sure everyone goes home at the end of the day.”
HRCA has a history of excellence: 2016 & 2017 – Gold 2018, 2019, 2022–2025 – Silver 2020 – No awards due to COVID-19
Join us in congratulating our lifeguards for their dedication to professional excellence and making a difference for every swimmer!
Celebrating 40 Years of the Highlands Ranch Newsletter
Five years after the first families moved into Highlands Ranch in 1981, the Highlands Ranch Newsletter made its debut in May 1986. Joni Blackman, Dave Long, Chuck Bromley, and Jim Pilcher set out to create a simple newsletter— and it quickly became the heartbeat of the growing community.
After a “Name the Newsletter” contest, the first official title was unveiled: The Hometown Herald (or Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch…). True to its name, it blended community pride with a touch of Western charm. Residents were invited to share personal stories and classified ads, join the local phone tree for updates (this was pre-internet!), and get involved as volunteers or district delegates.
The newsletter tracked every milestone—new schools and rec centers, park expansions, and commercial developments—as Highlands Ranch grew by leaps and bounds. Today, with more than 100,000 residents, the community looks very different than it did in 1986. Yet through every season of growth, The HRCA Newsletter has remained a trusted source of connection—a steady link between neighbors and the story of our thriving community.
Summer Adventures Await at HRCA Camps! (Ages 7-13)
Summer is made for adventure, creativity, and new friendships—and HRCA summer camps are ready to deliver it all! At the Highlands Ranch Community Association, our camps give kids the chance to explore, learn, and grow in a safe, supportive environment, while giving families peace of mind. Planning ahead makes all the difference. The February Camps Insert makes it easy to compare programs, check age ranges, and find camps that match each child’s personality—whether they love the outdoors, sports, or creative projects.
Registration for select 2026 summer camps starts in January, with more programs opening through March. Families can explore camp details on the HRCA website, scan the QR code in the insert, or follow HRCA on social media for updates. Camp Backcountry is perfect for kids who love nature. From hiking and art to horsemanship and girlsonly adventures, every week sparks curiosity and confidence while deepening campers’ connection to the outdoors.
Scan the QR code below to register. HRCA’s full lineup has something for every child. Camp HRCA offers themed weeks full of teamwork, laughter, and new friendships. School Break Camps provide engaging care when school is out. Creative kids can shine in arts and education camps, while sports camps build skills, confidence, and a love of movement. Therapeutic Recreation Camps welcome campers of all abilities, ensuring everyone feels included and supported. Families keep coming back because HRCA camps are Colorado State Licensed and led by caring, trained professionals dedicated to creating lasting memories. Beyond activities, campers discover who they are, try new things, and return home excited to share their stories. Make this summer unforgettable—HRCA camps are ready for adventure, creativity, and fun!
Highlands Ranch Water Issues Drought Watch; Encourages Early Conservation
Highlands Ranch Water has issued a Drought Watch for its service area, effective March 1, following a Feb. 23 decision by the Water Board. The declaration comes in response to ongoing warm, dry conditions, below-normal snowpack, and rising water demand across the region. A Drought Watch is the first step in the district’s Drought Response Plan. Its goal is to raise awareness and encourage early conservation efforts ahead of the irrigation season. When irrigation season begins, outdoor watering will be limited to three days per week.
If dry conditions persist, the district may move to Stage 1, which could include additional watering restrictions and drought rates. Several factors contributed to the decision. Snowpack in the South Platte River Basin—a primary source of Highlands Ranch Water’s supply—is currently at 59% of normal, while customer demand is running approximately 7% higher than expected, placing added strain on reservoir storage as the community heads into spring and summer.
With spring approaching, Highlands Ranch Water encourages customers to wait until May 1 to turn on their sprinklers. Before running irrigation systems, residents should perform a check-up: inspect sprinkler heads, replace broken nozzles, and check for leaks to ensure the system is operating efficiently. Outdoor water budgets begin April 15. As watering needs increase, budgets
adjust to reflect seasonal landscape demands. Staying within your water budget keeps rates at the lowest tier. Higher rates apply only to usage above your budget and are designed to promote efficient water use. While budgets do not change during drought restrictions, customers are encouraged to reduce water use in response to drought conditions.
During dry winter periods, residents may water occasionally by hand or with a hose-end sprinkler—applying water slowly and deeply once every two weeks when temperatures are above 40°F and there is no snow cover. In recognition of the Drought Watch, the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) will take a measured approach to lawn maintenance enforcement this summer. Lawns that appear dormant or temporarily yellow due to reduced irrigation will not be considered a violation. However, turf that is clearly dead, overtaken by weeds, or otherwise unmaintained will require corrective action. Homeowners are encouraged to maintain lawns at a slightly higher mowing height—3 to 4 inches during peak summer heat—to preserve root health while keeping yards trimmed, edged, and free of overgrowth.
Water conservation does not eliminate maintenance responsibilities but encourages thoughtful stewardship that balances resource use with community appearance standards. Residents can start conserving now by checking for leaks, upgrading to water-efficient fixtures, signing up for a free “Slow the Flow” irrigation inspection, and familiarizing themselves with their water budget. Small steps today can help protect the community’s shared water supply this summer.
From HRCA Flag Football to the National Stage
Last year, HRCA was thrilled to celebrate an incredible milestone for one of our own! Charlie Costello, who has been part of HRCA’s flag football programs since the age of six, was invited to compete in the 14U Boys Division at the 2025 USA Football National Team Development Program (NTDP) Select Bowl.
Charlie earned his invitation at a regional event in Pueblo, Colorado, and was selected as one of only 40 athletes nationwide to advance to this prestigious national showcase. From there, the roster was set to be narrowed to 22 players— and ultimately, the final 12 would represent the United States on the official 14U National Team. Adding to this exciting year, Charlie and his team also achieved an outstanding result by placing second in the 2025 USA Flag Football Tournament, a testament to his talent, dedication, and teamwork on the national stage.
We were incredibly proud of Charlie’s accomplishments and the role HRCA’s flag football program played in his development. Congratulations to Charlie and the Costello family on this exciting achievement!
Youth Flag Football League
Come out of the cold and join HRCA’s organized indoor, noncontact flag football league! Enjoy one weekly 1-hour practice, with games held on Saturdays. Registration includes a team jersey. Volunteer coaches are welcome!
FLAG FOOTBALL
Back to Summer Seahawks Family Night
Join the Seahawks Swim Team for Back to Summer Night! Pick up your T-shirt and cap, meet the coaches, sign up to volunteer, and enjoy a fun swim meet to kick off the season.
Location: Northridge Outdoor Pool
8800 S. Broadway
Details: $5 swimmer fee includes ribbons and a team water bottle.
2026 Outdoor Pool
Opening Schedule
Outdoor pools will open for the season on Friday, May 22, and we’re excited to kick off another summer at the pools. This year’s schedule will look a little different since local schools remain in session through Friday, May 29. Because many of our staff and young members are still in school, we will operate on a modified schedule from May 22 - May 29 before transitioning to normal summer hours.
Opening Weekend
Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25 All outdoor pools will be open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Memorial Day
Monday, May 25 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (all facilities close early)
Modified Schedule for Tuesday, May 26 through Friday, May 29
Normal summer operating hours begin Saturday, May 30. Indoor pool summer hours also begin on Friday, May 22.
Please scan the QR code for more information about pool schedules.
Self-Defense for Women & Teen Girls: Be Confident & Prepared (Ages 13+)
This class builds confidence, awareness, and practical self-defense skills for real-world situations. Participants will learn situational awareness, mindset, and scenario-based strategies for everyday environments such as parking lots, public spaces, around vehicles, and at home. Training covers using your voice, maintaining distance, responding under stress, and creating opportunities to escape safely. Key safety principles, including recognizing danger early and avoiding being taken to a second location, are emphasized.
Teen girls may attend with a parent or legal guardian.
Date: Sunday, April 12
Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
Location: Northridge (Martial Arts Studio), 8800 Broadway
Details: $40 member/$46 guest
Waltz Into Summer
Great for Weddings! Learn to glide across the dance floor with grace and confidence. Our Waltz class is easy to follow, featuring beautiful turns, elegant accents, and smooth steps perfect for any special occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, anniversary, or just love to dance, everyone will enjoy the timeless charm of the Waltz!
Experience the thrill of observing our golden eagle pair from a safe distance during Golden Eagle Viewing. This mated pair has called the Backcountry Wilderness Area home since 2011 and are expecting a hatchling this spring. During this program, we promote natural behaviors and provide educational insights about these majestic birds. While sightings are not guaranteed, guests may have the chance to see the eagles soaring, feeding, or nesting in their natural habitat. Visit our website for registration and additional program dates.
April welcomes the re-opening of Wildcat Mountain trails! Wildlife (namely elk) winter on Wildcat Mountain to conserve critical calories. After March, increasing temperatures means more resources for wildlife. Elk expand their range in the spring and summer, allowing visitors to hike, bike, run, and ride horses at Wildcat Mountain without disturbing their critical winter rest. However, if Wildcat Mountain’s resident golden eagle pair are observed having nest behaviors, the lollipop trail at the top of Wildcat Mountain will remain closed until Tuesday, September 1 to give the little one the best chance of survival. If you’re interested in a chance to glimpse these massive raptors (and, possibly, their little one), join us for a guided Golden Eagle Viewing program (see above). Happy hiking! Learn more about the closure on our blog!
Three Backcountry Programs To Try This Month
Geology Hike
Saturday, April 11, 9 – 11:30 a.m.
Embark on an exhilarating guided hike led by a local geologist, where every step reveals the captivating story of the Backcountry Wilderness Area’s ancient past. Discover stunning rock formations and hidden geological wonders that illustrate Colorado’s dynamic history. Navigate rough terrain and steep hills, adding a sense of adventure to the experience. This immersive geology hike will spark your curiosity and deepen your connection to nature’s incredible forces.
Sunshine and Storytime
Wednesdays and Thursdays in April, 10 – 11 a.m. Join us for a nature-themed storytime in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Each week features a new story inspired by seasonal happenings. After the story, the Backyard opens for free play, including our mud kitchen, sand “box,” and rotating extension activities related to the book. An adult must remain on-site to supervise registered children. This program is free, but registration is required. Donations to the Backcountry Wilderness Area Fund are encouraged.
Scout Horseback Riding Programs
Sunday, April 5, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2 – 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 19, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Earn badges and create lasting memories with our Scout Horseback Riding Programs in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Designed to meet Scout badge requirements while providing hands-on experiences, these programs introduce scouts to horse care, grooming, and riding basics. Scouts will build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills as they connect with these magnificent animals in a beautiful natural setting.
Brooker Sings Bublé
Enjoy an evening of world-class jazz with members of the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra. This 90-minute, small-group concert features genre-blending vocalist Matt Brooker and four bandmates performing Michael Bublé–style classics for a relaxed, feel-good night of live music.
Date: Friday, April 17
Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Location: Southridge, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $25 per person
Easter Egg Hunt
Join us for a fun-filled morning of Easter and spring activities at Westridge in a new indooroutdoor format! This free event features activities for kids, photos with the Easter Bunny, and egg hunts at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. Browse vendors and connect with neighbors while shopping and enjoying coffee and spring treats.
Date: Saturday, April 4
Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Location: Westridge, 9650 Foothills Canyon Blvd.
Details: Free to attend
Tequila & Tacos
Join us for an afternoon of bold tequila tastings and mouthwatering tacos at Tequila & Tacos! Enjoy a sampling of flavorful tacos paired with smooth sips of tequila. Whether you’re a tequila enthusiast or just here for the tacos, spend the afternoon enjoying delicious drinks and bites.
Date: Saturday, May 2
Time: 3 – 6 p.m.
Location: Southridge, 4800 McArthur Ranch Rd.
Details: $45 per person
Colorado 150 Art Contest
As we gear up for the Highlands Ranch Colorado 150 Celebration, we’re inviting artists of all ages and experience levels to create original artwork that showcases what makes Colorado special—our mountains, history, communities, local flavors, and the everyday moments that feel like home.
One winning piece will be featured on a limited-edition enamel cup, available for purchase at our one-day event on Saturday, August 1. We can’t wait to see Colorado through your eyes! The contest is open now through Monday, June 1.
Mother’s Day 5K
Kick off Mother’s Day weekend with the Mother’s Day 5K on Saturday, May 9, at 9 a.m. at Cresthill Middle School. Join us for a fun, family-friendly morning for all ages and paces. Keep your eyes open along the course—a hidden kettlebell is worth $100!
New to dance fitness or just want to feel more confident in class? This fun and welcoming fourweek series introduces the basics of dancebased group fitness! Each week, we’ll break down and learn one beginner-friendly routine while also building coordination, confidence, and rhythm along the way. We’ll cover what to expect in class, how to follow choreography, and how to enjoy movement at your own pace.
Join us on Wednesday, May 6! Try your favorite classes or experience something new—classes are completely free for the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring a friend and enjoy a great workout with our amazing instructors and community.
Please note: The Zone classes are not included in this promotion. Classes will be available for booking two weeks in advance. Reservations for Wednesday, May 6 open on Wednesday, April 22.
Pilates Pop and Sculpt (Ages 13+)
Join us for a fun, feel-good one-hour mat
Pilates class designed to sculpt, strengthen, and energize your body. After class, stick around to sip and socialize at our dirty soda mix bar, shop with local vendors—including permanent jewelry—and mingle with friends. Move, sip, and enjoy a perfect blend of fitness and fun!
Want to feel more confident with strength training? This hands-on, four-week series focuses on form, function, and fundamentals. You’ll learn the five essential movement patterns (squat, lunge, push, pull, rotation), how to breathe and brace properly, and how to scale exercises to your level.
This class is taught in a group fitness studio setting (not on the weight floor), but all movement patterns and techniques are intentionally designed to translate directly to the weight floor, helping you build confidence to apply what you learn independently. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to refine their technique and build a solid foundation for safe, effective strength workouts anywhere. No intimidation—just empowerment!
Join Junior Team Tennis, a USTA summer league that offers a fun way to build skills, stay active, and enjoy friendly team competition.
Teams practice twice per week with HRCA tennis pros, and matches are held Monday mornings. Players of all abilities are welcome, with beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels available.
Programs take place at the Northridge and Southridge Tennis Courts. Registration is now open, and the application is available on the HRCA Tennis page. Friends are welcome— register and request to be placed on the same team.
HRCA Sports is proud to partner with Peak Golf Academy and the beautiful University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch to offer dynamic golf clinics for both youth and adults!
From late spring through early fall, golfers of all ages can sharpen their skills, build confidence, and enjoy time on the course at the University of Denver Golf Club. Grab your clubs—it’s time to play!
Soccer Shots at HRCA (Ages 18 Months – 8 Years)
Soccer Shots is a fun, engaging soccer program focusing on skill-building and character development. Our team positively impacts children through best-in-class coaching, curriculum, and communication. Our expert-approved curriculum is ageappropriate and aligns with early childhood education standards.
JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS
SOCCER SHOTS
GOLF CLINICS
Colorado Basketball Academy (Ages 5–17)
HRCA provides year-round, high-quality basketball development programs in partnership with Colorado Basketball Academy for kids. Programs are designed to match your child’s level of play. Each six-week session focuses on individual and specialized player development skills, including ball handling, agility, coordination, shooting, and in-game skills.
Summer Sports Camps
Designed for kids who love to move, compete, and try new things, our camps offer a wide variety of exciting sports—including basketball, fencing, taekwondo, volleyball, golf, and high-energy dodgeball. Whether your child is sharpening existing skills or exploring a brandnew sport, they’ll stay active, build confidence, and make new friends along the way.
Youth Pickleball Camps
Join the fun at our brand-new Youth Pickleball Camp for ages 9–11! Campers will learn and play with guidance from HRCA Pickleball Pros while building skills and confidence on the court.
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Please bring a pickleball paddle and water bottle.
Date: Weekly camps in June and July Tuesday through Friday Time: 12 - 2 p.m.
A program dedicated to teaching individuals of all abilities two-wheeled balance, coordination, and confidence for a lifetime of riding adventures! Progress at your own pace in this small-group camp with plenty of individual instruction. Advance from balance games and focus activities to cruising the gym on two wheels.
STRIDER bikes do not have pedals—simply stride and glide! Optional pedal kits are available for purchase after camp. Registration includes the cost of a STRIDER Balance Bike to take home. If you already own a STRIDER, the cost will be reduced accordingly.
If you like to swim, bike, and run, join in the fun! This program is designed to prepare athletes of all ages with disabilities for the HRCA Splash Mash Dash Kids Triathlon on Saturday, August 8, at the Eastridge Recreation Center. Practice your swimming on Mondays. Bike and run on Thursdays.
Date: Mondays and Thursdays, June 1 - August 6
Time: 6 - 7 p.m.
Location: Eastridge, 9568 University Blvd.
Details: $175 member/$210 guest
Special Olympics Tennis Team
Special Olympics Tennis with HRCA Therapeutic Recreation is all about fun, friendship, and competition. There’s a place for you on our court! Join us at the pavilion to practice for 10 weeks and compete in an optional, exciting regional competition. Don’t miss out on the fun—register today to be part of this incredible experience.
Get in the game, get in shape, and improve your endurance! Basketball athletes gain skills including dribbling, shooting, and passing. Learn the rules of the game while practicing good sportsmanship and teamwork. Make new friends or come play with your best pals.
Date: May 13 - May 27 ($78 members/$94 guest) June 3 - June 24 ($104 member/$125 guest)
