Excelsior wishes Terry well and welcomes Jim Uhernik

After 29 years Terry Hoffman is retiring from her position as the Admission Director at Excelsior Youth Center.

Jim Uhernik will be stepping into her position as the Director of Business Development and Admissions. Jim is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and holds a Bachelor's in Criminology from the Metropolitan State College of Denver and a Master's in Psychology from Regis University. He has worked at Excelsior for the last 10 years as a supervisor and therapist, and has also worked as an outpatient therapist at Arapahoe Douglas Mental Health and a group therapist at the Betty Marler Youth Services Center.

Working with residential treatment, community mental health and youth corrections, Jim has developed a good understanding of the various needs of referral agencies and the difficult framework they often operate in. In these tough financial times, providing treatment that is both cost-effective and conducive to supporting the stability of families can be very challenging. Jim understands that the treatment community is small and working cooperatively with agencies to provide quality care is essential.

More recently Jim has worked closely with county mental health and local human service agencies to address how Excelsior can meet their needs and provide quality treatment. Jim has been very involved in the development of new programming at Excelsior including: Short-Term Intensive Residential Treatment (Hospital Diversion); Assessment and Stabilization Program; and Day Treatment to include programming for school breaks, Structured Afternoon/Evening Care and an Enhance Day Treatment option to include In-Home Impact Family, Overnight Crisis Care and Hospital Diversion, Parenting Group, and Additional Psychological Testing and Assessment (upon request).

In 2010 Jim plans to promote Excelsior's program to both Colorado and out-of-state referral agencies and will be talking with individuals and teams about Excelsior's continuum of treatment and flexible lengths of stay.

It's a Wrap!

The Fresh Faces Denver Fashion Show on Saturday, July 18 was a night of excitement, trends and self esteem building. As part of Westwood College's fashion merchandising event production course, the evening served as a learning opportunity for both the students who planned it and the Excelsior Youth Center girls that modeled the fashions.

Sixteen students from Excelsior modeled the latest designs from the collection of Denver-based designer Francis Roces of Kimono Dragons. The fashion trends on the runway ranged from baby doll dresses to fierce kimono inspired pieces.

As the Excelsior girls walked down the runway with their hair styled in everything from spiky Mohawks to long-flowing waves and adorned with brightly colored eye shadow, they looked out to supporters from the local community and several of their classmates and peers.

It was an exhilarating night for the students, staff and supporters of Excelsior.

"We were happy to be part of this program allowing the girls to have attention on them for something positive," said Joan Gabrielson, executive director of Excelsior. "So often these young girls are in the spotlight for doing something wrong, but this night was about being the center of attention for a good reason. The models learned a lot about fashion, self confidence and a way to have fun in a positive manner."

The fashion merchandising students at Westwood College also gained valuable lessons. The students were tasked with planning all details of this evening from fundraising, design and production for their event planning course.

Excelsior thanks the Fashion Merchandising students at Westwood College, North Campus, for making it all happen.

Denver Post Features Excelsior's Wellness Project in a beautiful article

Paws 4 Trust Needs More Paws!

For girls at Excelsior Youth Center, there is one special activity that brings smiles, laughter and sometimes tears - Paws 4 Trust. The girls sprint down to the multi-purpose room anxious to see their new friends and confidantes. They are greeted by wagging tails, sloppy kisses and barks as they take their seats in a circle at Paws 4 Trust weekly session at Excelsior. The dogs climb into the girls' laps or curl up at their feet as the girls begin to share their struggles.

"I pet him, and I feel different," said Meagan, an Excelsior resident. "I talk to the dog about my family, about my life. And even though he doesn't talk back, I can tell he listens."

Paws 4 Trust is a unique program that allows Excelsior girls to experience the power of compassion, unconditional love and respect through the relationship of a human-animal bond. By socializing and interacting with companion therapy dogs and handlers, Paws 4 Trust promotes responsible caretaking of all animals and encourages healthy, positive human-canine interactions. Once a week the girls gather to learn about dog ownership, teach the dog's obedience and tricks and spend time petting the dogs. Ultimately the goal of this interaction is to experience empathy, positive learning (and teaching) techniques, personal awareness, team building, respect for individual differences and appreciation for our similarities. For many of these girls, Paws 4 Trust has helped them heal.

"Paws 4 Trust has allowed me to bond with the dogs, build trust and show love," said Michelle, a 20 year-old Excelsior resident. "I've gained the courage to try new things."

We have lots of girls who would like to be a part of this program but we don't have enough dogs and handlers to accommodate everyone. Are you and your dog interested in being a part of Excelsior's Paws 4 Trust program? If so, please call 303-680-1719 or email to jschoech@comcast.net.

School is Cool

Natalie C. is one of the many girls that participate in Excelsior's "School is Cool" program.

Natalie, from Union City, Calif., has battled depression, bullying and isolation issues throughout her young life. In fact, her fears of others not liking her eventually drove her to drop out of school.

"Isolation was a huge problem for me," Natalie said. "I was depressed a lot and was also getting bullied at school so I stopped going."

Natalie was placed in a day treatment program and then a residential treatment program in California, but once again stopped attending school because she didn't like being around people.

Excelsior Youth Center was her last hope.

At Excelsior, Natalie quickly learned that if she didn't attend school there would be consequences. Excelsior's unique school programs, her cottage residence and her therapists helped her accept that being around people is a part of life.

"Excelsior has lots of extra classes to make school cool," Natalie said. "I love being in my Life Skills, Student Leadership and Advanced Art classes. I especially like Student Leadership class because we do peer mediation, bake sales, adopt a family, food drives, the ROCKSTAR program (Really Outrageous Cool Kids Starting To Act Respectfully) and much more."

Currently, Natalie is enjoying her classes and has several friends in her classes. She is expected to graduate from Excelsior in May 2010.

Lace up your Converse or saddle shoes and join us for Excelsior's 4th annual Steppin' Up event on Sept. 23 at 7p.m. featuring the musical Grease at the Littleton Town Hall Arts Center. This year all proceeds will benefit Excelsior's "School is Cool" program to encourage at risk girls to stay in high school.

Tickets cost $40 for reserved VIP seating or $20 for open seating and wine, beer and light desserts are included. Advanced tickets sales are required by contacting Carena Reber at 303-693-1550 ext. 331 or carenar@excelsioryc.org. Parental guidance is suggested.

It’s All About the Girls

Student Ariel and Anne making centerpiece baskets

Ask any volunteer why they chose Excelsior and they’ll say: “It’s the girls. It’s all about the girls.”

Yes, our Excelsior girls capture your hearts, emotions, interest and trigger the ‘how can I help’ instinct.

While decorating center piece baskets for Excelsior’s gala recently along side several of our Excelsior girls, Anne Fanganello, laughed while burning her fingers with the glue guns. “I just love these girls … their energy, creativity, excitement for the project. I’m ready to volunteer with these girls on a regular basis.”

Originally from Denver, she studied in Italy and spent eighteen years in New York City in the fashion industry. As she pursued her dreams of being a fashion designer, she found a higher calling in technical design, management and operations. As Nanette Lepore’s “right hand man” and COO of Zac Posen, she collaborated to produce not only beautiful clothing but also over-the-top theatrical runway shows and glamorous retail stores. She has returned to her hometown to help manage the Denver division of WM Events. Anne is driven to take the event puzzle and snap each piece into its precise place. She has surrounded her life with color, texture, music, timing and schedules, striving for perfection to create a flawless event.

Once introduced to Excelsior’s mission last February, Fanganello volunteered with the committee as she added pizzaz, sparkle and a unique touch to our recent annual gala, Ever Upward: Love & Laughter. She’s the one who thought of asking the girls to decorate white baskets with gorgeous ribbon and decorative trims she generated donations from the NYC fashion houses such as Nannette Lapore. Working along side the girls while laughing and creating, Fanganello saw an opportunity to give back: volunteering with the girls on a regular schedule. Soon she will explore a variety of volunteer options by working with Excelsior’s Volunteer Coordinator, Marisa Escobedo. She’ll attend Volunteer Orientation sessions and then see where her skills fit in.

Hundreds of community volunteers serve Excelsior annually in a variety of unique and special ways. If you want to join them, please contact Marisa Escobedo at Marisae@excelsioryc.org or 303-693-1550x311.

Anne says: “Working with Excelsior girls was an experience that will be close to my heart forever. I was not aware of what they did and thought that I was entering their "brochure" world of smiling, happy girls who loved life. Instead, I was thrust into a world of girls who had struggled their whole lives and were trying to break through thick walls of trauma, depression, and a need for love. As I walked through the doors I took up my hammer and chisel and tentatively began to tap away at those walls.”

“When I was first introduced to the girls it was an assault to my senses. I was scared, impressed, confused and intrigued by these young girls' personalities and their power to push me away. We had come up with the idea to have the girls produce baskets with ribbons, flowers, and bows to be used as table centerpieces but suddenly, I was fearful as I envisioned these girls with scissors and pieces of rope and glue guns.

I walked into the classroom prepared to be teacher, leader, and a kind face. But, there was that wall. I was not going to be able to break through. As the girls arrived they were uncomfortable with the new face, a different project and knowledge of humanity that equals anger and unhappiness. I took my fear and turned it into strength and power while theirs came out as strength and resistance.”

“As we began our project they turned into young girls excited with the ribbons and bows and I softened to my typical happy, smiling demeanor. By the time we were done we were all friends. As I left they held up their beautiful baskets saying, "Look what I did!" They were proud of themselves and the final product was amazing. Our sledgehammers had made the final brick fall to the side as the girls and I met with no walls left between us.”

Honorary Graduate: Lannie Garrett

Principal, Jann Clevenger, left, and Executive Director, Joan Gabrielson, right, congratulate Lannie Garrett as an honorary graduate at the May Excelsior Youth Center graduation ceremonies.

Lannie Garrett, Denver iconic songstress, grabbed an honorary high school diploma with the other 9 graduates today at Excelsior Youth Center. As the inspirational guest speaker, she told the graduates and their families since she dropped out of high school, she never wore "one of those cute blue hats and gowns. But I went back and earned a GED but I've always missed participating in a high school graduation ceremony. May I?" she asked Principal, Jann Clevenger. After getting permission from the other graduates Garrett received her own cap and gown and quickly moved her chair to join the girls.

Lannie left home at 16 and lived with different friends to get away from the family violence in her own home. "Both my parents were deep into alcohol addiction and we lived on junk food, hostess cupcakes and tv dinners. I ALWAYS wanted to be an entertainer. It took me decades of work to turn my sadness and depression around but I did it."

Lannie's two messages to the 2009 Excelsior graduates: "Don't act like a victim like I did. It took me years to change. Start celebrating little things and send out good thoughts to everyone you meet and your life will instantly change for the better," she said. "Secondly, be true to your word. Become someone others can always count on. Things will really happen for you when others KNOW you can be trusted."

Lannie's natural ability to connect with her audience, her comedic instincts and her stage presence make her in demand as a singer/entertainer in clubs and for corporate events all over the nation. Three years ago she opened her own nightclub beneath the historic D&F tower, Lannie's Clocktower Cabaret.

"I think HAPPINESS is a goal, not something that just happens to you," said Lannie.
Lannie was named by Excelsior as a Triumphant Woman in 2008, as someone who has made the difficult journey of overcoming seemingly overwhelming adversity to achieve greatness in their chosen field or endeavor. Triumphant Women honorees may have had troubled backgrounds, dysfunctional families, experience with poverty, or another extreme challenge. Triumphant Women are honored for "beating the odds" and becoming pillars of the community, displaying characteristics worthy of a role model to Excelsior girls.

Carmelo Anthony provides Excelsior free hair cuts

PHOTO caption: Barb Barth (EYC cosmetology staff), Lewis Griffin (Studio 15 general manager), Jason Hart (#6 on the Denver Nuggets), Theresa (EYC cosmetology student) and Joanne Greenberg (EYC cosmetology staff)

"15 on the 15th"

The Carmelo Anthony Foundation treated girls from Excelsior Youth Center’s cosmetology school to free haircuts at Carmelo Anthony’s Studio 15 (www.Studio15Barbershop.com) recently as part of the organization’s monthly “15 on the 15th” program. The Denver Nuggets’ forward launched the initiative at the onset of 2009 as a way to utilize his barbershop to help disadvantaged children and underserved adults in programs throughout the Denver area.

The girls from Excelsior received free haircuts from the professional staff at Studio 15. Denver-based American Crew provided each girl with a personal care gift bag containing grooming products. Studio 15 is located at 1740 Blake Street in Denver’s LoDo District.

The “15 on the 15th” program is part of the Carmelo Anthony Foundation’s commitment to serving the communities that have impacted Melo’s life. On the 15th of each month, 15 children or adults from deserving community organizations throughout the Denver area will receive free haircuts at Studio 15. Each month, the Foundation selects a different organization as the beneficiary of the program.

About The Carmelo Anthony Foundation

In 2005, Carmelo Anthony established the Carmelo Anthony Foundation as the vehicle for which he and his family would give back to the community through a variety of outreach programs and donations. The Foundation’s mission is to invest in programs and community organizations that empower and provide opportunities for underserved children and families. Since joining the Nuggets in 2003, Melo has been an active member of the Colorado community. Among his many activities include purchasing tickets to Nuggets’ home games for less fortunate families and hosting an annual holiday event entitled “A Very Melo Christmas” in which he provides presents and a day of activities for disadvantaged children.

www.CarmeloCares.org

Burton Snowboarding CHILL Program

Starting this week, six hand-picked Excelsior girls will be hitting the slopes at Colorado's Echo Mountain every Thursday for six weeks. Thanks to Chill, Burton's nonprofit learn-to-ride program for at-risk youth, the girls will learn the ins and outs of snowboarding, while also learning important life lessons.

For the past five years, Burton has worked with Excelsior, and other area youth centers to take more than 500 at-risk youth from Denver to the slopes, providing them with everything they need to ride: lift tickets, lessons, transportation and head-to-toe gear.

This will be Carolina's second year with Chill. A native of California, Carolina came to Excelsior two years ago to treat the symptoms from living in a stressful home situation. As a return Chill participant, Carolina is now asked to be a peer leader, helping with instruction and leading by example.

"As many Coloradans know, snowboarding is fun for the kids, but it takes plenty of hard work to learn," said Joan Gabrielson, executive director of Excelsior Youth Center. "It is so wonderful how Chill can relate snowboarding instruction to some of life's most important lessons for our girls, like patience and responsibility."

Last year, Carolina described her trips to the mountains as "amazing." Every Chill day, Carolina experienced frustration, fear, exhaustion and joy. She also started to see changes in herself.

"Chill helped me believe in myself," Carolina said. "It also helped me to trust myself more. I'm starting to trust my judgment of right and wrong, something I just couldn't do before."

Five other Excelsior girls will join Carolina on her journey back to the mountains this season. For many, this will be their first trip to the high country and/or their first true outdoor experience.

"We try to give these kids a new experience, helping open their eyes to all the opportunities life has to offer," said Chill coordinator Lauren DiGeronimo. "Life is so much more than the your neighborhood in the city."

This winter alone, Chill will work with over 2,200 youth across the globe. For more information about Chill, visit www.chill.org.

Len Brass: Volunteer Extraordinaire

Volunteer Len Brass has collected more than 100 poems of hope, pain, worry, loneliness and joy from the young women at Excelsior. With Brass' encouragement, the Excelsior girls have learned that their feelings, courage and hope can touch others. This collection of poems has become a true gift to Brass because they continue to touch his heart daily.

For the past three years, Brass has visited Excelsior weekly to tell stories and encourage discussion around issues of concern to troubled young women. Through Brass' participation of Rotary International, he has also become an ambassador for Excelsior to the community.

"In many ways, I've become a voice for Excelsior and a strong advocate for those who work so hard to touch young hearts," Brass said.

Brass has spent most of his life working with young people. He was a teacher for 13 years, a principal for 13 years, and a college supervisor and professor for 7 years. He is also a father to five children and a grandfather to four children.

Now retired, Brass is a professional storyteller, an author to a book dealing with raising young children and serves as a Rotary Assistant Governor in Area 13. A longtime member of Rotary International, he is now responsible to the Governor for three clubs and is able to share the message of Excelsior to his community.

His Rotary Club of Smoky Hill has had lunch at Excelsior and has participated in the financial program at The University of Phoenix with the girls. The club also purchased $500 in kitchen supplies to the culinary program and this year his Youth Leadership Campers will visit and donate toiletries to the girls.

"I'm a proud Rotarian and believe in service above self," Brass said. "I thoroughly enjoy life and want to give something back."

By advocating for Excelsior in the Rotary community, many Rotary Clubs have also become involved. In September, the Englewood Rotary Club enjoyed a lunch and a visit with the Excelsior girls and hopes to adopt Centennial Cottage. The Commerce City Rotary Club donated $620 toward a new campus wide wellness program and is considering more ways to become involved.

Over the years, Brass has also donated many items and money to assist in Excelsior's work. He has attended numerous activities and fundraisers and his wife and friends have even made hand-sewn sweatpants for the Centennial girls.

Through his work, Brass has become known as Excelsior's Ambassador Extraordinaire. Last year, he was the guest speaker at the volunteer recognition celebration and his work continues to touch the hearts of many.

Wellness Project Gets Kickin'

"I'm down 93 pounds thanks to everyone at
Excelsior who helped me. THANK YOU!"

Heavy all her young life, 17-year-old Melissa arrived at Excelsior Youth Center nearly 200 pounds overweight. Angry, scared, hurtful, lonely and depressed, she lashed out at anyone who tried to help her. Obesity and inactivity were not WHY she came to Excelsior but they were symptoms of deeper problems she needed to address.

"Now I've lost 93 pounds … maybe more since some of it is now muscle," proudly says Melissa. She and Marty, her therapist who is also a certified personal trainer, enthusiastically dealt with Melissa's eating and exercise habits as a way for her to be in control of her own behaviors. She lost 13 pounds in the first two weeks at Excelsior.

"Besides having more energy, I have improved social skills,," says Melissa. "And the daily
morning exercise program helps me focus better all day long."

Melissa will tell you it's not easy and she continues as she struggles to make friends.
"But I act more mature now and it has allowed me to get to know other people. The program is GREAT!"

Her painful journey includes addiction to medication for back pain (due to extra weight) and lots of loss in her life, including deaths of close relatives (heart attacks at early age). Most of her family members also deal with obesity. "Now I've inspired my Mom to attend Overeaters Anonymous. She's really proud of my success and she's working hard, too," says Melissa.

Let us increase physical wellness, improve nutritional healthy eating and offer enticing exercise opportunities for all the girls at Excelsior Youth Center. What do you say???

Excelsior is implementing a campus-wide wellness initiative estimated to cost nearly $100,000. Childhood obesity, an alarmingly increasing phenomenon, is a major factor in a host of chronic, and costly, conditions from diabetes to heart disease to mental health issues (depression, suicide). Excelsior is developing strategies to help promote weight loss and increase physical activity to significantly lower risk factors for its students. Let's get our girls moving!

$8,000 will purchase fitness equipment- elliptical, treadmill, mats & weights

By emphasizing exercise, sports and nutrition to our girls, they are reaping the rewards of an active, healthy lifestyle. In addition to the fun, team-building benefits, physical activity aids in increased imagination and creativity, increased discovery and reasoning skills, thought development and improved problem solving.

$3,200 will provide a sound system, wall mounted tv's for physical fitness videos, dvd's, pamphlets, menu planning materials

In these activities our girls are challenging their bodies, while working through their emotions. Additionally, the physical benefits of exercise positively impact major health risk factors. Physical activity has been shown to decrease the risk of smoking, illicit drug use, sexual risk taking, depression and suicide factors that already threaten this unique population.

$1,500 will purchase 3 Wii Fitness machines to keep kids motivated and moving!

"It gives me motivation to continue to work on losing weight and exercising. It's great!
I really enjoy the praise from the staff because I exercise,," says Melissa.

"Besides having more energy, I have improved social skills,," Melissa says

$45 will outfit one girl with appropriate athletic clothing & exercise shoes

"The girls are truly motivated and working on these wellness concepts. A side effect has been the renewed camaraderie that's developed. Exercising and menu planning/eating together is a safe way to develop team work," says Marty. "And the girls are sleeping better and they are taking fewer medically prescribed drugs. We're VERY proud of their success."

Littleton Independent features Steppin' Up 2008

Wine Walk at The Landmark

Above: Mike Bristow, Kathy Graveley, Carena Reber, Fred Jauch and the boys hockey league that shot goals to make Excelsior's cosmetology program money! Thanks RBC Wealth Management for your continued support!

Live Auction Benefits Aftercare Program

Photo caption: Carena Reber and Kathy Graveley, Excelsior's Development Department, peruse the antique Irish Cupboard at the live auction.

Thanks to the generosity of Susan and David Kreisman of Chicago, Excelsior's Aftercare Program is benefiting from the proceeds of a live auction of furniture, antiques and accessories. Held recently on the Excelsior campus, the auction generated nearly $10,000 for our emancipating teen program. The Kreisman's sold their Cordillera (Vail) vacation home and donated many valuable items to Excelsior. Thank you, Susan and David! It is these generous donations that keep the important Aftercare Program alive at Excelsior. Click here to donate to the program.

Excelsior's Aftercare Program seeks to advance the status of emancipating young women in Colorado. The goals for these women are to increase their access to affordable housing, improve their ability to attain self-sufficiency, and obtain medical care and higher paying jobs with career mobility. Equally important is empowering the girls with the knowledge of how to avoid recreating their past history and abusive partners. We want to keep the girls invested in their own futures.

The Aftercare services will follow discharged metro-Denver students to prevent future homelessness- provide education for financial literacy, address continued counseling needs, provide referrals for job opportunities, teach life skills and assist with gaining access to health care. Financial contributions to Excelsior's Aftercare Program are QUITE AN INVESTMENT! Donations are welcome.

Grab your swim suit & towel and come help us celebrate

Excelsior’s New Teen Center & Swimming Pool

Friday, August 22, 2008

5-7 p.m.

Barbecue dinner, tours & entertainment

Program to honor all of you who made it happen begins at 6:30 p.m.

We will unveil plaques and imprinted bricks!

Reservations are Required by calling Carena Reber @ 303-693-1550x331

by August 15th.

15001 E. Oxford Ave., Aurora CO 80014 www.excelsioryc.org

Outfitting 180 girls with one-piece or tankini swim suits is challenging for Excelsior. Donations are welcome to assist in this endeavor. We anticipate each suit will cost $25 per girl (or more). Additionally, we're hoping to supply board shorts and t-shirts as cover ups at $25 per girl. Pool toys, kick boards, goggles and other aquatic items are also needed. Credit card donations are accepted on-line or by calling Kathy 303-693-1550x226. Thank you!

EVERYBODY INTO THE POOL!

Excelsior's long awaited swimming pool and teen center are now OPEN! Many thanks to everyone who made it possible.

Kathy Graveley's first swim! Staff and kids are enjoying Excelsior's new swimming hole.

Bill Gregory, Executive Director Emeritus, officially opens Excelsior's new Swimming Pool and Teen Center on July 3, 2008. Assisting him is EYC's Associate Director and Building Project Manager, Arnie Goldstein.

Teen Center Progress as of July 7, 2008.

What began as the dream of our former Executive Director, Bill Gregory, comes to fruition 35 years later. Mr. Bill was always a strong advocate for a campus swimming pool. We owe a debt of gratitude to:

Ware Malcomb -Leading Design for Commercial Real Estate. The folks at Ware Malcomb (led by Jim Williams) donated their architectural talents. They designed the actual building and pool.

Design Workshop - Making the Places that Bring People Together With Land. Of course, no project is complete without landscaping. Matt Landis and the team at Design Workshop are developing a plan to enhance the surroundings of the Recreation Center with beautiful trees and greenery.

Saddleback Design - Luke Waugh is lending interior design services for the Teen Center and soliciting vendors to donate flooring, counter tops, cabinets and tiling.

Thank you!

Kudos to the EYC Teen Center Committee: Arnie Goldstein, Vicki Sicard, Sheila Stanley, Elaine Atwater, Mike Walters, Brynn Robles and Vivian Zlobec.

Design Workshop Foundation Donates Landscape Architecture Services for Excelsior Youth Center

Aurora, CO – The Design Workshop Foundation has been busy facilitating donations and donating landscape architecture and installation services for the campus garden design of the Excelsior Youth Center in Aurora, CO. Design Workshop Foundation volunteers, with the help of many generous donors, have organized over $45,000 in donations of trees, shrubs, perennials, irrigation, benches, design services and manpower. The first round of landscaping was installed June 27-28, with over 30 Design Workshop employees and Excelsior Youth Center volunteers donating their time. The second and final installation will take place on August 16, with a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony taking place on August 22.

The Foundation extends their greatest appreciation to the following material and service donors: Hydrosystems, GreenPrint Denver, City and County of Denver Parks and Recreation, Landscape Forms, Native Trees Service, Peak ‘n Prairie Landscape, Box Elder Creek, City of Aurora Parks and Open Space Department/Urban Forestry, O’Tooles Garden Center, Gulley Greenhouse and Mrs. Jenny McCoy. Project donations are still being accepted, details can be found at http://www.designworkshop.com/DWFoundation.aspx. Design Workshop president, Rebecca Zimmermann comments, "the benefit resulting from the new campus gardens and teen center will be priceless. Helping to provide a beautiful environment for the girls who work so hard to turn their lives around and the staff's dedication to that outcome is a real honor for us."

Excelsior Youth Center is a residential treatment center and facility serving girls ages 11-18 with emotional and behavior difficulties. Excelsior is home to about 180 girls who participate in a structured treatment and living program while receiving a certified education at Excelsior’s middle or high school.

If you'd like to help the Design Workshop Foundation continue their efforts to provide services to groups like Excelsior please visit our website: http://www.designworkshop.com/DWFoundation.aspx. and make a tax-deductible contribution online.

Founded in 1969, Design Workshop is an international landscape architecture, land planning, urban design and strategic services firm with seven offices in the U.S. and work spanning the globe. The firm has been recognized through the years with over 145 prestigious awards for their work in new communities, urban centers, resorts, public parks, golf courses and residences. The firm’s philosophy challenges staff and their clients to equally merge artistic vision, environmental sensitivity, community values and sound economics to create unique places that stand the test of time. They refer to this approach as DW Legacy Design®. For more information, please visit www.designworkshop.com.

Design Workshop Landscape Project Planting Days

Left picture: Five fabulous members of Design Workshop. Becky (President of the Firm), Scott, Tina, Amie and Robin

Right picture: ZhenZhou (design workshop), Ed (volunteer) and Brad (volunteer)

Left Picture: Scott (Design Workshop), Megann (student) Joan (Executive Director), Amie (Design Workshop)

Right Picture: Scott (Design Workshop),.. (Volunteer), .Marisa (EYC Volunteer Coordinator), Vicki (EYC Recreation Director)

Leave a Green Legacy

Leave a permanent legacy to Excelsior's new Teen Center and Swimming Pool by purchasing a GREEN SPACE in the accompanying gardens. Plaques engraved with your name and message will be installed to commemorate your lasting gift.

Specific sites for a naming opportunity (Engraved plaque with your name and message) with a tax deductible gift of $2,000 include:

Healing Spiritual Garden-
Xeric Planting Area-
Memorial Space-
Event Gathering Space-
Therapy Garden-
Seating Area adjacent to the Tree Lined Path

Trees: A very special Tree Lined Path is slated to allow for quiet, contemplative strolls for the girls and their therapists through a grove of 18 trees just behind the building. You may purchase an engraved plaque for one of these trees for a tax deductible gift of $500.

Engraved plaques for smaller trees throughout the landscaping plan can be purchased for $250 each.

The design plan for the contemplative vegetative area surrounding the Teen Center and Swimming Pool was donated by the landscape architects at Design Workshop. The plan took three months of dreaming, thinking, creating by a team of students, teachers and staff members working along side the Design Workshop staff. They said they intend to help us create more landscaping plans for the remainder of Excelsior's expansive campus! Heartfelt thanks to everyone at Design Workshop for pulling together a sensational plan!

Denver Post Article on Pool Party

Horses and kids … troubled kids

The Kingery Family

Michael Tempel, Dr. Lauren Kingery-Tempel, Morgan Tempel, Bill Kingery and Carol Kingery

Carole Adelstein attended our open house and then rode "Moose" just like our equine girls!

Story after story supports the success of horse therapy in helping troubled teens move toward appropriate social behaviors. Here at Excelsior Youth Center, we’ve got hundreds of anecdotes supporting our tremendously effective equine therapy program.

Excelsior re-named its program the Kingery Equine Therapy Program, in honor of long-time Board member, Bill Kingery. “There is something magical about the connection between girls and horses,” says Bill. “I hope equine therapy will always be available to help the girls become happy and productive citizens.”

After retiring from the cable television industry and buying a ranch as a real estate investment, Bill began riding trails with his daughter, Laurie. From there his interest grew into breeding and then racing (for 15 years he raced Paints and Quarter Horses successfully all over the southwest). “It convinced me that working with horses was therapeutic because patience was never my strong suit but I got a whole lot better when I started working with horses.”

With Bill’s vision, encouragement and enthusiasm, EYC’s equine therapy program has thrived since he and others first started it 13 years ago. Today 100 young girls participate in the wildly popular 10-week sessions conducted on near-by horse ranches at an annual cost of $20,000. Fees for service that cover most of the girls’ needs do not include equine therapy. But Excelsior values the program so much that it continues to provide the therapeutic program at $200 for each girl who participates.

The Kingery Equine Therapy Program is used to achieve physical, psychological and communication skills and it is educational, recreational and therapeutic. “The horses are a very good tool for reflection,” explains an Equine trainer. “I’ve seen these girls grow personally. They learn so much about team work, respect, communication and trust.”

One girl reflects, ”my experience at equine therapy was not great at first. I was scared and it brought up many of my past issues. As the trainer continued to work with me, I started feeling good and I started trusting my horse who helped me by having patience and feeling my fear. She made me feel wanted. The trainers also taught me that giving up is the worst thing that I can do, but for most of my life that’s all I could do. My horse gave me confidence.”

"Horses were something that I had only seen on TV so when I had to come face to face with one, I was so terrified. I couldn’t believe how big they were in person. If it were not for Equine therapy I would still have a fear of horses. I ride by myself now!”

“I’m so comfortable with the horses now,” she continues. “There are many girls who are scared like I was. I encourage them. Equine has helped me to communicate and be comfortable around others, which was a big step for me. It’s not just about the horses.”

See how important this program is for our troubled girls? Thank you for helping us enhance appropriate social behaviors for our troubled girls by funding our therapeutic riding program.

UPS Celebrates Melody Horton:

In memory of Melody Horton, former Foundation Board member and loyal community volunteer serving the girls in Excelsior’s Phoenix Cottage, the UPS Foundation awarded Excelsior Youth Center a $12,500 grant in July 2008. A former UPS employee, Melody died in February of this year and she is greatly missed.

Weekly, she taught money management classes, resume writing and conducted mock job interviews for the girls living in Phoenix Cottage. With these enhanced job skills tools, these girls can emancipate to self-sufficiency. The UPS grant funds will continue this effort. A team of UPS employees stayed for several more hours of community service to assist with the re-organization of Excelsior’s business office. Thank you, UPS!

Left picture: Check presentation ceremony to celebrate Melody Horton. Joan Gabrielson, Executive Director; Liz Hesting, UPS representative; Heather Hurd Johnson, Phoenix Cottage Treatment & Team Coordinator and Jodi Mashburn,UPS representative.

Right picture: David, Mary, Kristin, Liz, Marisa

Left picture: David and Kristin; Right picture: Kristin, Maria, Liz, Jodi and Mary

Former Student Revisits Excelsior Youth Center For An Inspirational Graduation Message

She comes bearing a message of hope to girls who wrongly believe they are hopeless. Karen Oschin will return to Excelsior Youth Center for graduation this Friday at 1:30 with a message that she has dreamt of delivering since she left Excelsior more than 20 years ago.

The girl who came to Excelsior is very different than the woman who left. Karen came to Excelsior as a teen with a heavy heart and low self-esteem. She had been caught in an undertow of abusive relationships leaving her with a rebellious attitude and little hope of a bright future. She describes herself as a wild teen with deep pain, and no focus.

The counselors and teachers at Excelsior helped her see otherwise. Karen remembers hearing for the first time, "I love you just the way you are" from her counselors, Laura Bahl and Becky Davis. At Excelsior she discovered a hidden talent for writing in a creative writing class. After struggling with herself and growing immensely Karen successfully graduated from Excelsior with a better understanding of her abilities, potential and self-worth.

Now, she is a successful professional actress in Los Angeles, with a list of accomplishments including appearances on The West Wing, The George Lopez Show, and Deadwood, as well as several theatrical productions and commercials. After leaving Excelsior she became serious about acting and made a commitment to personal and professional success. This attitude has allowed her to watch her dreams come true.

"Some people say acting is an all too popular profession with a small success rate but it's my passion and I find a challenge in someone telling me I can't do something" Karen says.

On Friday, Karen will speak to the Excelsior girls graduating about her struggles and triumphs. She hopes to instill motivation to keep them moving forward as they leave Excelsior Youth Center and continue on their path to self-discovery and accomplishment. Four girls have completed the program and will graduate on Friday at 1:30 pm at Excelsior.

Ron Bard (Chaplin), Karen Oschin (Alumni), Jann Clevenger (School Principal),

and Joan Gabrielson (Executive Director)

Melina (graduate and now alumni) and Carena (Development Assistant)

A Voluntary 'Splash' for Excelsior

Cathy Watson, Super-Donor-Shopper, scoured Denver stores in search of 100 bathing suits, shorts and flip flops for Excelsior's soon-to-be-swimmers-in-their-new-pool! Thanks to Cathy for her thoughtful and generous contribution!

Cathy Watson displays new swim items.

Making a 'Racquet' for Excelsior!

Thanks to Tennis Plus for coordinating a used tennis racquet drive for Excelsior's physical education classes. Mike and Patti Huddleston are collecting used racquets and slightly used tennis balls at their store at 537 W. Highlands Ranch Parkway, just west of South Broadway. Mike has offered to re-string racquets that need it! Thanks Patti and Mike! Donors will receive tax deductions for their donations. See www.tennisplusonline.com or call 303-470-7587.

Bully Proofing Excelsior

Bullies beware!!! As the first residential treatment center in the nation to institute a campus-wide anti-bullying campaign, Excelsior Youth Center is launching the Olweus Bully Prevention Program. Researchers from Colorado State University are eagerly conducting an outcome study to evaluate the effectiveness of this bully prevention program with troubled teenaged girls.

"Our girls, though toughened by the streets, are looking for structure and discipline in their lives just like all kids," explains Carol Beauchamp-Hunter, Excelsior's Associate Director and Director of Treatment. "I am very confident and hopeful the Olweus program will work with our difficult kids because everyone has an active role including the kids. We've trained student leaders who will help us introduce the strategies to the other girls. The more the girls are actively involved, the better our success."

Besides student involvement, another key to its success, according to Beauchamp-Hunter, is the consistency of messages from all staff members. Every employee at Excelsior is expected to confront bullying when observed and not only address the bully, but particularly let the person being bullied know it's not acceptable to be treated that way. "That's a crucial message for the victimized person," she says.

"Since Excelsior is always striving to provide a healthier, safer environment and peer culture, we were very excited when we discovered the Olweus program. We expect to reduce the opportunities for bullying and improve peer relationships, classroom behaviors and living conditions."

In addition to the kick-off with fun activities this week where each girl receives a hand painted anti-bullying t-shirt and other special events, the girls will continue to receive weekly school meetings and weekly groups in the cottages where they reside. More than 300 Excelsior employees have completed the 4-hour Olweus training sessions and this topic is now part of the on-going new staff orientation sessions. A committee of 10 staff members meets monthly to review progress. Partial funding for this program has come from Colorado's Tony Grampsas Youth Services Program to reduce teen violence. Continued community support will ensure its longevity.

Each girl completes initial questionnaires of their bullying attitudes and then a post survey will be conducted later to measure behavior changes. Kathy Rigsby and Jan Evenstadt of Colorado State University in conjunction with Dr. Marlene Snyder of Clemson University are conducting the outcome study of its effectiveness in an all girls residential setting. The Olweus program, developed over the past 30 years, has been implemented worldwide with good results in public schools.

"I remain hopeful since research has shown if you reduce aggression and anti-social behaviors, it will also reduce substance abuse," concludes Beauchamp-Hunter.

"The repeat survey is generally done after the program has been in place for a year. I would wait at least nine months before doing it again, as it does take time for the momentum to get going. I rather doubt that you will see any great changes for at least 4-5 months. We can certainly keep track of what is going on and then make the judgment as to when to survey again." Kathy Rigsby

Side bar: Signs posted around campus:
We will not bully others
We will try to help students who are bullied.
We will make it a point to include students who are easily left out.
When we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell any staff member.

CONGRATULATIONS

to Jim Winter and Centennial Cottage for receiving awards from CAFCA for outstanding achievement this year. Jim, Program Coordinator at Excelsior for nearly 35 years received the prestigious Individual Leadership Award. Centennial Cottage was named the outstanding Treatment Team this year from CAFCA, Colorado Association of Family and Children's Agencies. Way to go, guys!

left photo: Centennial Cottage Staff: left to right back: Sarah Rhodes, Amy Smith, Dicia Kemp, Carl Minard, Erin Shaw, Jim Uhernik. Front- Dan Flannigan.

right two: Jim Winter and Joan Gabrielson

EVERYONE IS NOW IN THE POOL!

After more than 35 years, girls at Excelsior Youth Center are swimming in their own backyard pool. The official Pool Opening Celebration will be held Wednesday August 27th, but for now the girls are swimming!

"The pool will open every day with structured activities and free time, too," explains Josh Martin, Aquatics Coordinator. "With two life guards on duty all the time, we will have swim lessons for all levels, water games and aquatic aerobic exercises throughout the week. The girls will demonstrate their swimming ability and personal safety requirements in a test prior to using the pool. Each Cottage will also have scheduled times to visit the pool. I'm very excited to launch this inaugural program."

Outfitting 180 girls with one-piece or tankini swim suits is challenging for Excelsior. Donations are welcome to assist in this endeavor. We anticipate each suit will cost $25 per girl (or more). Additionally, we're hoping to supply board shorts and t-shirts as cover ups at $25 per girl. Donations are accepted on-line or by calling Kathy 303-693-1550x226.

The 50'x75'pool is a dream of former Executive Director, Bill Gregory. "Gosh it's BIG," responds Gregory, now retired, upon seeing the massive structure now built north of the residential cottages on Excelsior's 33-acre campus. "It's certainly bigger than I'd ever expected after dreaming about it all these years. This is thrilling."

Due to tough backgrounds and substance abuse problems, most Excelsior girls never had the opportunity to participate in any type of regular physical activity, team sports or swimming. Additionally, many girls arrive on Excelsior's campus with very little knowledge of general wellness or healthy use of leisure time, including the importance of regular exercise. Excelsior's summer rec program and swimming pool will provide girls a new and fun way to learn about wellness, and help them stay active. These activities are vital to the success of Excelsior's overall program.

"When asked why she wanted to swim, one of the Excelsior girls said: 'it makes me feel free …' We're delighted to provide this additional recreational experience for the girls," said Josh.

"Kathy Buckley was not only hilarious, but was a terrific role-model for young women with life's barriers to hurdle."

"Speaking of Kathy Buckley, I thought she was wonderful, especially with her comments at the end of her performance. She fit into our theme of overcoming adversity extremely well and her encouragement and support of the Excelsior cause at the end seemed to be very heartfelt and genuine. This was an unexpected bonus which was very much appreciated and underlined what a good fit she was with the overall program."

"Kathy Buckley's comments about the Center and the girls were very touching and the crowd was listening carefully."

"Kathy Buckley gave an incredible personal testimonial!"

"Kathy Buckley was exceptional. People had fun and the laughter was great. Her serious message at the end was a great wrap up to the evening."

"Kathy Buckley was great- funny and heartwarming. Loved her!!!"

Last but certainly not least: Kathy Buckley voluntarily spent 3 hours Friday afternoon prior to her evening performance with a behaviorally difficult, hearing impaired Excelsior client. Together, they chatted, laughed, explored, toured and laughed some more. That's bonding!

Excelsior's New Uniforms

After 35 years, Excelsior Youth Center now expects each student to wear a uniform during school hours. The matching navy blue polo shirts and pants were purchased through the generosity of the List Family Foundation. The girls may wear their own clothes during evenings and weekends.

Excelsior students Brenna, Kaitlyn and Venessa model the new school uniforms.

"The process of incorporating uniforms for school is a challenging one with our clientele due to their mental health issues, rebelliousness and anti-social behaviors. We know that this will be a strong improvement for our program as it will address gang colors, girls who have fewer/less stylish clothes, revealing/provocative outfits, 'sagging and bagging' pants and graffiti/inappropriate phrases on clothing," says Joan Gabrielson, Excelsior's Executive Director.

"The vast majority of students have embraced the concept and accept wearing Excelsior's new school uniform," explains Jann Clevenger, Excelsior's School Principal. The teaching staff is equally excited about the new uniforms, Clevenger said. "It will increase instructional time in the classroom as it's one less thing the teachers will have to confront the kids about. The Student Government will willingly wear their new uniforms in support of the idea."

Students from Student Government Class responses:

T: "I think it's a great idea because I won't have to choose what to wear every morning. I'm worried that many of the girls will fight the idea and they'll keep fighting until they get tired of the consequences. But eventually they'll cooperate. Also I think some girls will make the uniform UNIQUE in some inappropriate ways. Get ready …"

D: "I had to wear them in elementary school and they're not that bad. It's not like it's a jail uniform! I think the girls can express themselves in other ways like through their jewelry. It won't be too much trouble."

D: "I won't be as late each morning! I just hope they're COMFORTABLE!"

C: "There will be less hassles in classrooms from the teachers having to correct girls' clothing. And I think it'll be good for many of the girls to follow directives."

T and D: "It gives us the opportunity to wear uniforms like you have to wear for many jobs on the out side" and "remember: you have to wear uniforms for most sports!"
"It'll take a while to get use to them but I think it'll be fine."

Excelsior Goes GREEN

Early May 1st (just before the May Day snowstorm!) Excelsior Youth Center's Centennial Cottage was the recipient of TV Channel 9's GO GREEN IS EASY MAKE OVER. Gregg Moss telecast LIVE for 5 segments starting at 5:40 a.m. through 7:40 a.m.
Surprises included the donation of a new energy efficient refrigerator donated by Gregg Colson and Appliance World, Inc. and a garden compost bin, tools and plants by Tagawa Gardens. Standard Renewable Energy donated an energy audit for the cottage and an anonymous donor contributed $500 to help implement some of their recommendations. Allied Waste delivered a recycling bin and donated 6-months of free recycling services to Excelsior.

Excelsior thanks Gregg Moss, Valentina Garcia, Rob Proctor and the wonderful Channel 9 cameramen and crew for this wonderful opportunity.

Thanks to the Centennial Cottage staff, Sarah Rhoads, for submitting Centennial's name to the contest and for 'greening' Excelsior!

EXCELSIOR STEP TEAM: SISTA' SOUL PRODUCTIONS

They chant "One pulse. One rhythm. One Team." Their feet and hands make a unfied rhythm that sounds like drum beats. A group of girls who are tyring to turn their lives around, pull together to form an award-winning step team.

Stepping is a traditional activity that started in the African-American community. Without any music, rhythms and beats are created with steel toe boots and the clapping of hands in a 10-12 minute routine. It is a recreational and competitive sport in schools and universities across the country. It is judged on originality, difficulty, audience appeal, uniformity and costumes.

The Excelsior step team began as a six-week pilot program and recreation activity. It quickly blossomed into an award winning team of courageous and committed young women, many of whom, had rarely ever expressed themselves in a positive way. Lives filled with anger, sadness and struggle began to feel renewed hope in their newly found abilities. Four years later, the step team continues to provide an opportunity for girls with heart, determination and a love of the art form, to see themselves in a new light while they work to create a new start.

Currently, the step team consists of several girls who come from all over the United States and range in age from 14 to 18. Because each girl's stay at Excelsior can vary, team members change frequently but one thing remains constant, every girl joins the team to carry on the legacy that has become so special at Excelsior. "One pulse. One rhythm. One team."

Excelsior's Kathy Graveley Honored By Aurora Chamber of Commerce

 

Executive Director Joan Gabrielson congratulates Kathy Graveley, Unsung Hero Award Nominee. More than 300 people attending the Women Making A Difference breakfast on March 3rd hosted by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Committee heard about Excelsior’s message because Kathy Graveley was one of 3 community finalists for their ‘unsung hero’ award for her development work with Excelsior. Our own Jeannie Davis was the chair of the successful breakfast. The Gateway Rotary Club (thanks to Jeannie) purchased a table and 12 Excelsior people, including 4 girls, attended to support Kathy. “I was humbled and honored to represent Excelsior in our Aurora community,” says Kathy. “Many thanks to Joan Gabrielson for her nomination.” The other finalist was Michelle Leslie for her work with the Lupus Foundation of Colorado. Congratulations to the winner of the Unsung Hero Award, Darla Stuart, for her work with intellectually and developmentally disabled people through The Arc of Aurora.

New William C. Gregory Scholarship Established

In December, anonymous donors created a large endowment from which the yearly interest earned will fund scholarships to be awarded in Bill's name. The William C. Gregory Scholarship program is expected to receive $10,000 per year from this endowment to be awarded to Excelsior's girls, past or present. What a tremendous way to honor Bill, who cared so deeply about our girls and their futures.

Excelsior Names New Executive Director

Joan Gabrielson has been named the new Executive Director of Excelsior Youth Center. She succeeds Bill Gregory who will retire December 31st after serving Excelsior for 32 years.

"I appreciate the responsibility the Board has entrusted to me and I will do everything I can to build on the tremendous program Bill (Gregory) created and developed," says Gabrielson, a 32-year Excelsior employee. "Bill's wisdom and leadership have been the foundation of Excelsior's success. But it has also been because of all of the talented and dedicated people here. I feel very fortunate to work with all of you," she told a crowded room of Excelsior staff members who jumped to a standing ovation following the announcement.

Gabrielson has served as Excelsior's Associate Director and Human Resources Director. She received her BA from Colorado State University and MBA from University of Colorado at Denver. She will assume her new role September 1st "but we still have four and a half months to learn from Bill."

"I will miss my relationships with the kids, staff and Boards. However, there's a great relief in stepping away from the tremendous responsibility of seeing to the welfare of these girls" says Gregory. "I'm extremely optimistic of Excelsior's future with the new leadership that will bring fresh ideas, energy and enthusiasm."

Gregory and his wife, Vonna, have been married for 47 years and have five children and seven grandchildren. They will soon move to a new home in Parker where "I want to enjoy country life, see more of my family, learn to fly fish and travel," says Gregory.

Charcie Russell, Board Chair, says "we are so fortunate to have had Bill Gregory leading Excelsior's efforts for the past 32 years. His impact on our organization, staff and students is greatly appreciated and literally beyond measure. With Joan Gabrielson's capable leadership we will now launch forward, continuing the positive direction that Bill established."

Excelsior Leadership Announcements

Congratulations to Arnie Goldstein and Carol Beauchamp-Hunter, Excelsior Youth Center's new Associate Directors. Arnie and Carol will be active in managing all aspects of Excelsior's daily operations to provide for the highest quality of service for the girls. Arnie will focus on the Center's financial concerns both internally and externally. As Excelsior's CFO for the past 18 years, Arnie has established Excelsior's solid accounting and financial management practices. As the current President of the Colorado Association of Family and Children's Agencies (CAFCA), Arnie is a leader in advocating for children and service providers.

Carol will focus on programming for clients. She is a leader on CAFCA's Training Committee, a committee she helped create. Carol has a wealth of knowledge about families, social service systems, COA, licensing regulations and treatment modalities, along with a true passion for providing the best possible care for our clients.

Congratulations to Vivian Zlobec who will be Excelsior's Director of Human Resources. Over her 22 years with Excelsior, Vivian has gained a wealth of information about Excelsior in her many positions with the organization. In the Human Resources Department, Vivian has worked continuously to improve the benefits provided to staff and the communication of those benefits. She is always eager to take a leadership role in saying 'thank you' to staff members for their hard work and dedication.

Excelsior's Bill Gregory Honored

Bill Gregory, Excelsior's Executive Director Emeritus was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Colorado Association of Family and Children’s Agencies, CAFCA. Congratulations, Bill!"

SCHOLARSHIPS!
The Daniels Fund distributed $1.4 million in scholarships in June to at-risk students who might not have been able to afford college. The scholarships are given to students from alternative schools, juvenile justice programs, GED recipients and from underserved schools in Colorado.

Two Excelsior students will be chosen to receive two of these Daniels Opportunity Scholarships in partnership with the Community College of Aurora. The Excelsior candidates will receive full scholarships as they study at CCA for their two-year Associates Degree.

"We should have our two worthy candidates by December," explained Joan Gabrielson, Excelsior's Associate Director. "We're thrilled to partner with both the Daniels Fund and Community College of Aurora as they are extrordinarily flexible in meeting the needs of our non-traditional at-risk students. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students. "

The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), Division of Youth Corrections has selected a new provider for the privately operated secure treatment program for girls at the Betty K. Marler Youth Services Center in southwest Denver. A partnership of two private organizations; Rite of Passage Inc. and Excelsior Youth Center, has been notified of the State's intent to award the bid to operate this program.

"We are looking forward to working together with this partnership to bring the Marler Center up to its full potential," said CDHS Executive Director Marva Livingston Hammons.

This announcement follows the release of the request for proposals in December 2004, and a nationally competitive process. The Divison of Youth Corrections will enter into a new contract at the end of an appeals period. The State releases new Requests for Proposals for privately operated programs periodically to ensure that it contracts effectively for these services.

The program and its 14 current residents will be temporarily moved to the State-operated Marvin Foote Youth Services Center in Englewood pending reopening of new operations at the Marler Corporation, and the CDHS Division of Youth Corrections to maintain programming and best use existing resources and staff during the transition period.

The Marler Center is scheduled to reopen under a new State contract with Rite of Passage/Excelsior no later than July 1, 2005. The center, named for former DYC Director Betty Marler, opened in July 2002 and has a capacity of 40 residents.

Connecting Hearts and Hands for Excelsior Youth Center

Nearly 150 volunteers from the Arapahoe Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints celebrated Colorado Cares Day on Saturday, July 30, 2005 in a day of service and volunteerism at Excelsior Youth Center. Joined by Governor Bill Owens and his staff, volunteers of all ages and abilities spent the day repairing walkways, landscaping, hanging ceiling tiles, painting and decorating nearly every facet of Excelsior's 33-acre campus.

Under this year's unifying theme "Communities Working Together," the Colorado Cares initiative encourages Coloradoans to make a difference in their communities through service projects to deserving non-profit organizations across the state. Steven Hess, a volunteer from the church says, "I was told there were up to 150 people participating at one time or another from ages 6 months to 70 plus years…it was a very pleasant and meaningful experience for everyone." He goes on to describe the satisfaction he feels in giving back: "Doing service like that for what I have come to appreciate as a truly benevolent institution is a gift to the giver that few can understand."

Joan Gabrielson, Associate Director of Excelsior Youth Center, was touched by the community support. "It meant a great deal to our girls to have all of these people from the community, strangers even, work so hard. The girls loved having their home spruced up and to know that these volunteers cared about them and wanted to do something so generous," she says.

Carol Gianfrancisco and Arnie Goldstein coordinated the effort with assistance from Mike Walters, Facilities Manager. Taneshia Nettingham conducted tours and recruited lots of new volunteers to help at Excelsior in the future.

TEEN CENTER: The Excelsior Youth Center Board and the Excelsior Youth Foundation Board are pleased to announce plans to build an exciting new addition to the Excelsior campus. In early 2007, we will begin construction on a year-round Teen Center for recreational, therapeutic and spiritual activities and an adjacent outdoor swimming pool for the girls. Jim Williams and others from Ware Malcolm have donated their architectural talents in designing the structures. Building funds will come from fundraising activities and a gift from the Excelsior Youth Foundation.

EXCELSIOR STEP TEAM: SISTA' SOUL PRODUCTIONS

They chant "One pulse. One rhythm. One Team." Their feet and hands make a unfied rhythm that sounds like drum beats. A group of girls who are tyring to turn their lives around, pull together to form an award-winning step team.

Stepping is a traditional activity that started in the African-American community. Without any music, rhythms and beats are created with steel toe boots and the clapping of hands in a 10-12 minute routine. It is a recreational and competitive sport in schools and universities across the country. It is judged on originality, difficulty, audience appeal, uniformity and costumes.

The Excelsior step team began as a six-week pilot program and recreation activity. It quickly blossomed into an award winning team of courageous and committed young women, many of whom, had rarely ever expressed themselves in a positive way. Lives filled with anger, sadness and struggle began to feel renewed hope in their newly found abilities. Four years later, the step team continues to provide an opportunity for girls with heart, determination and a love of the art form, to see themselves in a new light while they work to create a new start.

Currently, the step team consists of several girls who come from all over the United States and range in age from 14 to 18. Because each girl's stay at Excelsior can vary, team members change frequently but one thing remains constant, every girl joins the team to carry on the legacy that has become so special at Excelsior. "One pulse. One rhythm. One team."

LEADERSHIP AURORA:

Leadership Aurora is a program designed to meet the needs of the city of Aurora for promoting and fostering the development of leadership in our community. The program has been in existence since 1984 and it brings together diverse people to learn from each other, creates an expectation of servant leadership, produces a basic understanding of how people and groups function and builds in real opportunties to teach knowledge and skills.

Excelsior Youth Center is very fortunate to partner with the Leadership Aurora Class of 2007. The goal of this project is to refurbish Excelsior's auditorium and multi purpose room. These areas are in some need of updates and repairs to make them into places the girls can be proud of! Leadership Aurora is looking to raise $35,000 to complete this project for Excelsior.

What is the scope of this project?

• Upgrade Lighting System
• Upgrade Sound System
• Refurbish Operable Partition
• Refinish Stage Floor
• Replace Stage Curtain
• Replace Seating as Needed
• Refurbishing Multi-Purpose Room
  

On April 15, 2005 Excelsior Youth Center hosted a Career Fair on its campus featuring approximately twenty-five exhibitors from local community colleges, universities, and trade and vocational schools. Representatives from participating organizations will be available to answer questions and provide valuable information. This year Excelsior is incorporating a hair and fashion show into the event, as well as a culinary arts exhibition and women's advocate speaker. Last year's Career Fair was a great success and we expect this year's to be even better!

The National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice honored Taneshia Nettingham with its "Outstanding Service Award" for her work with the Excelsior Youth Center Step Team at it's annual scholarship fund raiser on Saturday, February 5, 2005. The EYC Step Team also presented a brief performance at the event. Congratulations, Taneshia, Excelsior's Special Events Coordinator.

For the past several years Maggiano's Little Italy has generously hosted Thanksgiving dinner for all of the girls who are at Excelsior on Thanksgiving Day. This holiday can be a terribly difficult day for a child who is far from home or who has limited familial connections. Maggiano's truly cares about our girls and has done everything in their power to be sure that Thanksgiving is a truly special day. The restauraunt staff treat the kids with the same high level of professionalism and respect as their regular customers.

To quote a girl from this year's dinner: "I have never been to a place like this — it's the most beautiful room I have ever seen." This year Maggiano's hosted all of the children and staff on our campus as well as parents, volunteers and younger children from a partner agency. Maggiano‚s has also organized a Christmas gift program in the past which has generated literally truckloads of gifts for the girls at Excelsior and hundreds of children in placements throughout the metro area.

Thank you, Maggiano's! We sincerely appreciate all you do for kids in need in our community.

 

Rhonda and Tommy Vickers Honorary Chair Persons

EXCELSIOR YOUTH CENTER CELEBRATES
EXCELSIOR! EVER UPWARD
APRIL 16, 2004
WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE MUSEUM
 
Excelsior Youth Center announces Rhonda and Tommy Vickers will serve as HonoraryChairs of Excelsior! Ever Upward, the fundraising gala Friday, April 16, 2004 at the Wildlife Experience Museum. 

The Vickers hosted the Patron Party at their Castle Pines home on Friday, April 2nd for patron level guests to Ever Upward. Invitations to the event that costs $150 per person are available by calling Excelsior at 303-693-1550x226.

The hot air balloon theme represents the definition of excelsior which is ‘ever upward” and the goal of improving and empowering the lives of the troubled girls who reside at Excelsior. Excelsior! Ever Upward features a welcome reception, silent and live auctions with auctioneer, Gary Corbett, dinner and live entertainment by Excelsior girls. Funds will benefit activities for the girls residing at Excelsior. Reservations are required.

As a renowned sculptor, Rhonda Vickers says, “I was introduced to Excelsior when I was commissioned to create the bust of Excelsior’s Executive Director, Bill Gregory, to commemorate his 30 years of service. Tommy and I learned a great deal about the program and have become very supportive.”

Rhonda was born and raised in St. Louis and studied fine arts at Wichita State University. She and Tommy were married 35 years ago and have two grown children. Rhonda has volunteered teaching art to children with Cerebral Palsy and worked with homeless women and children at the Gathering Place and served as its Board Chair. In 1999 Rhonda began her full time bronze sculpting business.

Tommy, raised and educated in Wichita, KS, was in the securities business for 25 years before moving his family to Denver in 1984. While in Kansas he was involved in Catholic Charities, National Jewish Hospital Board, the Institute of Logopedics Board and the Crime Commission. “I’m a low key patron of charities and I prefer organizations dedicated to children and their future,” says Vickers.

 Ever Upward co-chairmen, Molly Ross and Bill Lane, are joined on the gala coordinating committee by: Anne Barrett, Deb Braun, Gary Corbett, Maggie Eichenlaub, Joan Gabrielson, Judy Girardot, Bill Graveley, Kathy Graveley, Bill Gregory, Lisa Houston, Hal Hultquist, Dick Jones, Andrea Kellough, Carol Kingery, John Kivimaki, Abbie Kozik, Jackie Lane, Taneshia Nettingham, Anne Prather, Matt Rivera, Arlene Wayland and Vivian Zlobec.
Corporate sponsors of Ever Upward include Comcast, Denver Nuggets- Kroenke Sports Enterprises, Wells Fargo Bank, Wagner Investments, Inc., Allegiance Benefit Plan Management, U. S. Bank, Hillyard Floor Care, Trugreen Land Care and Piper Jaffray.

For ticket information please call Excelsior, 303-693-1550 x 226.

Photo: Rhonda and Tommy Vickers, Honorary Chair Persons

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