By I want to tell you a quick story- not about me, but about a moment that changed how I see young people in Denver. A few months ago, I sat in a Denver Public Schools classroom watching a group of students talk about their dreams. Some wanted to be engineers. Some wanted to be nurses. One young man said he wanted to “build something big,” though he wasn’t sure what that meant yet. What struck me wasn’t their ambition; it was how much they lit up when an adult simply listened. That’s when I realized: sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer a young person is our presence.
That’s why I’m excited about the DPS Coach Mentoring Program, and why I’m personally inviting you to join the virtual Partner Info Session on Tuesday, June 9, from 12–1 p.m. MT.
This isn’t a heavy lift. It’s not a complicated program. It’s simply a chance to show up for students who are figuring out who they want to become.
Here’s what the commitment looks like in real life: You give 2.5 hours a month from September to April. You show up for group mentoring sessions that are already planned and facilitated by DPS staff. You join a group that fits your world, Business, Medical, Engineering, Technology, or you support affinity groups like Spanish‑speaking or BIPOC students who need mentors who understand their lived experience. That’s it. No lesson plans. No homework. Just you, your story, and your willingness to guide.
Why I think this matters
Denver is full of brilliant young people, but many of them don’t have someone in their life who works in the fields they’re curious about. Some don’t know anyone who looks like them in the careers they dream of. Some are the first in their family to imagine college or a professional path. When you show up, you’re not just mentoring — you’re expanding what feels possible. And if you’re part of a company or organization, this is a beautiful way to bring your team into something meaningful. DPS even offers a team‑based mentoring model, so your colleagues can join you.
If you can’t make the webinar. No stress. You can still reach out to the DPS Career Development Team at: careerandcollegesuccess@dpsk12.org.
So here’s my ask
If you’ve ever wished you could make a difference without turning your life upside down. If you’ve ever wanted to give back to the city that raised you, welcomed you, or became your home…
If you’ve ever believed that young people deserve adults who see them, then join me on June 9. One hour. One conversation. One step toward shaping a future you’ll be proud to have influenced. Sometimes mentorship isn’t about having all the answers. Sometimes it’s just about showing up — and saying, “I see you. I believe in you.” And that, truly, is enough.
