Colorado Statewide Youth Development Plan

The Colorado Statewide Youth Development Plan presents a vision for a strong youth development network and strategies for improving an array of youth-focused policies, practices and programs. At the core of the vision and strategies is the incorporation of positive youth development principles into the services and programs for youth ages 9 to 25 in Colorado.

As directed by HB 13-1239, the plan must be updated biennially. The 2016 Statewide Youth Development Plan remains true to the spirit of the initial plan, incorporating current work, completed strategies and revisions based on new priorities developed with input from a diverse group of stakeholders.

The Colorado Statewide Youth Development Plan is a guide for:

• Using positive youth development as an approach for partnering with youth ages 9 to 25 to help them achieve their full potential
• Understanding the gaps in programs and services for youth and the recommended strategies for addressing these gaps
• Engaging a broad array of stakeholders, including youth, to improve supports for youth so that they are education-ready, career-ready, and ready for life