"Growing Up Boulder’s expertise and impact on child participation in urban planning continues to inspire UNICEF USA. We are grateful to have their partnership in building a movement to re-imagine cities fit for children and fit for all.”
- Danielle Goldberg, Managing Director, US Programs and Child Friendly Cities Initiative, UNICEF USA
Growing Up Boulder's projects
Since 2009, Growing Up Boulder has elevated the voices of Boulder's children and youth, particularly those from underrepresented communities, to make Boulder more equitable and sustainable for all.
From Youth Voice to Community Leader: A Journey with Growing Up Boulder
Growing Up Boulder was delighted when Edgar Chavarria agreed to serve on our board. We love Edgar for his wisdom, his kindness, and his service to his hometown of the Boulder, CO. But what makes him extra-special to Growing Up Boulder is that he was one of the first children we worked with when were founded in 2009!
We interviewed Edgar during the pandemic and before he joined the Growing Up Boulder board. We hope you enjoy hearing his story as much as we do!
We interviewed Edgar during the pandemic and before he joined the Growing Up Boulder board. We hope you enjoy hearing his story as much as we do!
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"Having a discussion with people who were listening to my perspective and my viewpoint really made me feel like I was part of a community and part of Boulder."
--Edgar Chavarria, former Growing Up Boulder child, current board member, and City of Boulder Neighborhood Liaison
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2022 Reflection
"Growing Up Boulder was the first time where I got to share what I envisioned for my hometown. I was so lucky to work with the co-founders of Growing Up Boulder and created a digital story that reimagined the Hill. This project was created when I was in 5th grade and from that point on, I realized that my input matters too. I was part of many youth advisory boards including, Congressman Polis’s Youth Advisory Board in 2015. In high school, I led a student organization that promoted the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion that continues to do this work today. This path naturally directed me to study Political Science and History at the University of San Diego, and I chose to work in government after college. I have been lucky to see the Judicial Branch and I hope to continue exploration in different government agencies as I consider going to law school.
"After a year and a half at the 20th Judicial District, I am now a Neighborhood Liaison for the City of Boulder. In this role, I help our community members navigate the City of Boulder and its vast departments, help our community members and leaders create a stronger sense of community in their neighborhoods, and connect our communities to issues in City Council that are relevant to their lives."
- Edgar Chavarria
"After a year and a half at the 20th Judicial District, I am now a Neighborhood Liaison for the City of Boulder. In this role, I help our community members navigate the City of Boulder and its vast departments, help our community members and leaders create a stronger sense of community in their neighborhoods, and connect our communities to issues in City Council that are relevant to their lives."
- Edgar Chavarria
2021 Reflection
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In the following interview with Growing Up Boulder Co-Founder, Professor Debra Cushing, Edgar Chavarria reflects upon how his work with Growing Up Boulder as a 10-year-old impacted his life. He also talks about why youth voice matters.
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Our Work in Boulder
Amplifying all youth voices, with a focus on those most affected by inequities
