Overview
HISTORY
In 2001, Bob and Tom Hewson recognized the struggle that teenagers and their parents had in relating to one another. In today's world often both parent and teen feel disconnected from one another.
From their own childhood experiences, these two brothers believed that traditional outdoor activities provided an ideal environment for youth and their parents to strengthen their relationship. With a passion for families and the outdoors, CYO was born.
Now as CYO approaches its 10th year of programming it is moving out of the High School classroom and into regional educational facilities to better serve parents and kids throughout Colorado. CYO is building on the past and building for the future by providing a very simple but invaluable gift to families - the gift of time together.
KEY PRINCIPLES
- We believe relationships need time to grow.
- Learning happens best when we are having fun "doing” it so we attempt to be "hands-on” with our programming.
- We employ and train highly qualified and caring instructors.
- We require parents (or mentors) to participate with their students.
- We ask for only a minimal financial contribution from participants but a maximum commitment.
FACILITIES
In October of 2007, Colorado Youth Outdoors secured the Swift Pond properties located just off Interstate 25 between Windsor and Ft. Collins. This Regional Education Facility is the site of many of our curriculums and will also be home for CYO’s headquarters and regional indoor classroom facilities. We look forward to identifying other Regional Facilities around the state. We are also happy to make Swift Ponds and CYO equipment available to many other non-profit organizations. You can make reservations for usage on the Swift Ponds calendar.
FUNDING
In order to maintain its commitment to providing all of its experiences and programs at a minimal cost to its participants, CYO utilizes a number of fundraising strategies and events. The organization generates both operational and progam dollars to support its mission through Friends of CYO , corporate and foundation grants, and special events such as The GOOSe, Catch a Memory and The Maverick . (Read more on Funding)
Colorado Youth Outdoors is a charitable 501(c)3 organization. EIN #84-1608608