Impact Archives - Illuminate Colorado

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

by Lex Loutzenhiser | Mar 13, 2026 | Advocacy, Impact

The Colorado State Capitol building, surrounded by green trees and grass. The gold dome is clearly visible in the center of the photograph.

As we celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Illuminate Colorado, we are reflecting on a decade of policy work to build a foundation for all families to thrive. In reflecting on the past 10 years and looking forward, we are celebrating many family strengthening policy wins and staying rooted in gratitude for our partners in prevention and mission.

Policy Impact

Since Illuminate started tracking our current Key Performance Indicators in 2020, 95 state bills have passed that are aligned with Illuminate’s policy priorities, and we have offered testimony 86 times. We are grateful to our advocacy partners who led and co-led these policy efforts, often inviting Illuminate to share our expertise through stakeholder meetings, testimony, Interim Committee hearings, and other education opportunities. Of the 95 state bills that passed, Illuminate was proud to be an advocacy lead on nine of these bills.

state bills passed that are aligned with Illuminate's policy priorities

number of times that Illuminate has offered testimony

State Policy Trends

Throughout the years, exciting state policy trends have emerged that have resulted in Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center’s designation of Colorado as a national leader in supporting families with infants and young children in 2024 and 2025. Illuminate is celebrating several trends that advanced evidence-based and research-informed prevention policies and programs, including:

Increased state investments in family-centered tax credits, including the state Child Tax Credit (CTC), state Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and Family Affordability Tax Credit (FATC)
Creation, implementation, and expansion of the state Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program
Promotion of concrete supports for families impacted by substance use through state investment and policy change to increase access to specialized child care, the Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), and Colorado Works (TANF) for impacted families
State investments in home visiting programs, including Family Connects

Federal Policy Trends

At the federal level, Illuminate has been grateful to partner with our national affiliates to educate our Colorado Congressional Delegates (federal senators and representatives) on Colorado family strengthening initiatives and data, while advocating for federal policy changes. Over the years, we have celebrated several federal legislative wins that advance evidence-based and research-informed policies, including:

Ongoing improvements to federal family strengthening statutes, including the Child Abuse Prevention & Treatment Act (CAPTA) and the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA)
Ongoing investments in and expansion of the federal Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit
Reauthorization of federal programs to promote prevention, early intervention, diagnosis, and support regarding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs)

View of United States Congress Capitol building framed by alley of golden orange yellow foliage autumn fall trees on street road during sunny day in Washington DC

Celebrating the Passage of the FASD Respect Act

Sept 25, 2025

Across Colorado and the nation, advocates are celebrating the passage of the FASD Respect Act, a crucial step toward building a foundation for individuals and families impacted by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) to thrive. . . .

Read more →

Staying Rooted in Gratitude and Our Mission

We at Illuminate are grateful to our partners in prevention, including Lived Experience Experts, organization and agency partners, our national affiliates, and policymakers, who continue to inform, elevate, and lead/co-lead family strengthening policy initiatives. In reflecting on the past decade of policy work at Illuminate and envisioning the next 10 years, we recognize that, while policy landscapes, strategies, and trends may shift, we are committed to staying rooted in our ongoing mission, foundations, and values, working towards our vision of a Colorado where all children and families thrive.

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

This year marks ten years of Illuminate Colorado’s work to strengthen families, organizations, and communities to prevent child maltreatment. As we reflect on this milestone, we wanted to pause and capture some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way. This article...

Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

“When my baby was 6 weeks old, I headed into the Aspen Women’s Center in Westminster, Colorado. I was determined to finish out my program at the center, but knew it would be hard to juggle my recovery with caring for my baby. As I approached the Center, I was greeted...

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Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

by Illuminate Colorado | Mar 4, 2026 | General, Impact

This year marks ten years of Illuminate Colorado’s work to strengthen families, organizations, and communities to prevent child maltreatment. As we reflect on this milestone, we wanted to pause and capture some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way. This article was shaped by insights from staff across the organization and highlights what it takes to create lasting change, drawing on lived experience, professional expertise, and years of on-the-ground prevention work.

Prevention Is More Than Just Programs—It’s Also Systems

Prevention work is often most visible through programs and people. But what sustains it are the systems and infrastructure working behind the scenes. Over the past decade, we’ve learned that lasting prevention requires strengthening the systems families rely on—healthcare, child care, treatment, education, and policy—not just addressing challenges one family at a time.

Our work spans direct service, training and education, coalition-building, and policy engagement because no single approach is enough on its own. When prevention efforts influence organizational practices, community norms, and public policy, the impact reaches far beyond any one program or moment in time.

“Prevention work is often visible through programs and people, but it’s also sustained by the systems behind the scenes.”

— Cindy Rojas, Contracts & Compliance Manager

“Collaboration across systems is how we turn good intentions into real change—developing an upstream approach, reducing stigma, strengthening support, and ensuring families are not navigating care alone. When organizations and people collaborate across systems, we don’t just improve services—we change the culture. Partnership reduces stigma, builds trust, and makes it easier for families to seek support and receive the care they deserve.”

— Kelli Sutton, Director of Behavioral Health Initiatives

How We Show Up Matters

Across programs and roles, one lesson rises to the top again and again: how we show up matters just as much as what we do. Prevention work is rooted in meeting families where they are—with compassion, respect, and a nonjudgmental approach.

When caregivers feel supported rather than scrutinized, they are better able to focus on their own needs and, in turn, their children’s well-being. Whether families engage with us for a single session or over the course of a year or more, the relationships built through trust and consistency create space for growth, healing, and possibility.

“The main thing that makes a difference in the work we do is how we show up every day. Meeting families where they are with a positive, nonjudgmental attitude is key.”

— Eric Chervenak, Child Care Operations Manager

“Investing resources into prevention work is a commitment to dreaming and building a more just future for every child and family.”

— Mary Houlihan, Early Childhood Initiatives Manager

Prevention Is Collaborative by Nature

Prevention doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens alongside families, communities, partner organizations, and across sectors. Over the years, we’ve learned that collaboration is not an add-on. It’s foundational.

Our coalitions and strategic initiatives bring together professionals, community members, and people with lived experience to improve policies, practices, and systems across Colorado. Nearly half of coalition members who completed recent feedback surveys report lived experience related to the work, strengthening both relevance and impact. This collective effort helps shift norms, improve outcomes for parents and children, and build stronger systems of support statewide.

“The biggest thing I’ve learned about prevention is that it’s a collaborative practice. Prevention doesn’t happen alone—it happens alongside all different types of work and all the people in our spheres.”

— Sadie Rose Pace, Education Program Manager

“Throughout the past 10 years, we’ve learned that, when we are rooted in the shared purpose to build a foundation for all families to thrive, folks from across political parties, life experiences, and educational, professional, and cultural backgrounds are committed to coming together and making lasting, systemic change – and that lasting change is more effectively accomplished through shared responsibility, knowledge, connection, and purpose.”

— Lex Loutzenhiser, Policy Manager

Innovation Requires Listening—and Courage

Many of our most impactful efforts grew from listening closely to families and communities and being willing to do things differently. Innovation is often at the heart of prevention work, especially when addressing gaps created by stigma and other barriers.

From transforming RVs into mobile child care classrooms parked outside treatment centers, to rapidly creating new supports during the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve learned that prevention demands flexibility, creativity, and a willingness to pivot. These efforts ensure caregivers can access care for themselves while knowing their children are safe—an essential foundation for breaking cycles of trauma and adversity.

“Not many organizations would take on the hard work of renovating RVs into classrooms to provide high-quality child care for families who are often overlooked because of stigma.”

— Joan Holtz, Director of Family Support

Prevention Can Be Joyful

While prevention work often involves heavy topics, we’ve learned that it doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time. In fact, prevention can be positive, engaging, and even joyful.

Our education and training programs show that when people are given practical tools and supportive spaces to talk about tough issues—like child sexual abuse prevention or substance use—fear gives way to confidence and action. Participants don’t just change their own behavior; they influence workplaces, policies, and communities. Prevention becomes something people want to be part of, not something they avoid.

“Prevention can be fun and joyful and positive. When we talk about prevention, it makes the scary things less scary and more manageable.”

— Sadie Rose Pace, Education Program Manager

Data, Stories, and Lived Experience All Matter

Seeing impact through both data and lived experience has reinforced what works. Evaluation shows that our programs equip individuals and organizations to take meaningful action and drive systems-level change. At the same time, hearing directly from families reminds us why this work matters.

When a Family Connects nurse catches a health issue others overlooked, or when a caregiver shares how support through Illuminating Child Care allowed them to focus on recovery or stability, it’s clear: prevention strengthens the systems meant to catch people before they fall through the cracks.

“Participants don’t just take individual action—they influence organizational policies and practices that strengthen communities.”

— Danielle McQueen, Evaluation & Strategic Learning Manager

Looking Ahead

Ten years in, we know prevention is complex, relational, and deeply human. It requires collaboration, innovation, humility, and persistence. Most of all, it requires believing in families and communities AND building systems that do the same.

As we look ahead, these lessons continue to guide our work and reaffirm our commitment to creating a Colorado where all children and families can thrive.

“We’re so proud of what Illuminate has learned and achieved in our first decade and are committed to working in partnership to apply our shared insights to strengthen families, organizations, and communities.”

— Anne Auld & Jillian Fabricius, Co-Executive Directors

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

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Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

by Illuminate Colorado | Dec 17, 2025 | Child Care, Impact

Chanise, a parent who utilized the Illuminating Child Care program aboard RV Honey, kissing her newborn's forehead

A child playing with a teacher aboard one of the Illuminating Child Care RVs

A young child playing with a kids' toy full of buttons and dials aboard an Illuminating Child Care RV

An Illuminating Child Care teacher holding a baby aboard one of the RVs

At first, I was skeptical. I had heard of Illuminating Child Care before and thought the idea sounded wonderful, but the question lingered: how do you have a daycare on a bus? Teachers Patsy, Jordan, and Sreena offered to give me a tour of the on-site child care classroom, Honey, so I could see for myself what it was like.

When I boarded Honey, I was blown away. Every area where my child would play, eat, and sleep, was clean and well made. Seeing the classroom was a relief because I was able to see that not only were the teachers kind and knowledgeable, but the physical environment was enriching and inviting as well.

Patsy, Jordan, and Sreena were so welcoming and comfortable to talk to. They made me feel like I had the option to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ without judgement. After that, I decided to give Illuminating Child Care a chance. After just the first day, I was able to see how much the teachers cared about my baby and the expert care he was given.

That was over a year ago, and I haven’t looked back. Participating in Illuminating Child Care allowed me to participate in my classes, take a shower, or even just eat breakfast. With the help of Illuminating Child Care, I have been able to complete the first phase of my program.

Beyond giving me the time and support I need to attend classes, Illuminating Child Care has also given me the tools and resources I need to help my son grow. The teachers have helped my son reach so many milestones, from feeding to walking.

I want other parents to know that it’s okay if you’re skeptical. The Illuminating Child Care teachers understand that parents are apprehensive to allow strangers to care for their baby. But if you can, give them a chance, like I did. Not only have I been able to reach my goals, but Patsy, Jordan, and Sreena have made my son feel so loved. Illuminating Child Care has been the most influential blessing in my life since starting my journey.”

Illuminating Child Care provides high-quality, safe, and reliable child care for parents and caregivers who are navigating complex life situations—like mental health concerns, substance use disorders, or employment challenges—as they seek to strengthen their families.

The classrooms provide on-site child care at the very locations where parents and caregivers are receiving support services, which eliminates a huge logistical barrier. And, services are provided at no cost to families — another barrier removed!

A quote from Chanise, a parent who utilized the Illuminating Child Care program: "Illuminating Child Care has been the most influential blessing in my life since starting my journey."

Your gift helps make this possible. Here’s how:

$30 can buy an infant sleep sack to promote safe sleep practices for an Illuminating Child Care family who needs it
$75 supports one session of Illuminating Child Care for a family who needs it
$180 supports a tank of gas for an Illuminating Child Care classroom to be able to serve families at multiple locations
$300 supports a month of classroom essentials like diapers, wipes, formula, and cleaning supplies for an Illuminating Child Care RV
$2,600 supports one Illuminating Child Care slot for an entire year

Donate Today

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

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Claudia’s Story: Finding Strength with Family Connects

by Illuminate Colorado | Dec 9, 2025 | Family Connects, Impact

Two women checking up on a baby lying down on an examination table

A quote from Claudia, a mother of 3 who utilized Family Connects: "I tell all my friends and family about this program—it truly makes a difference."

“When I welcomed my third child, I felt overwhelmed. My husband had to leave for work right before I gave birth, and I was recovering from a C-section while caring for a newborn, a toddler, and a teenager. On top of that, I felt lonely and unsure of myself.

I was nervous about having a nurse come to my home through the Family Connects program. I didn’t know what to expect, but from the moment she arrived, everything changed. She explained the visit step by step, reassured me that I didn’t need to worry about cleaning or being judged, and let me know she was there to support me.

She helped me feel confident and relaxed in ways I didn’t think were possible. I was able to share how I was feeling—lonely, sad, and overwhelmed—and she made me feel heard and validated.

The nurse didn’t just help me emotionally; she also gave me practical support. She showed me different breastfeeding positions, helped address my concerns about my baby’s weight and reflux, and even checked my health and recovery. She provided resources in my community that I didn’t know were available and small but thoughtful gifts like books for me and my baby.

That visit left me feeling like I wasn’t alone. Even my family felt at peace knowing I had this extra support. I tell all my friends and family about this program–it truly makes a difference. Family Connects is for everyone, no matter your background.”

Family Connects Colorado connects every family to a healthy future. How? By bringing home visiting to all families with newborns in Colorado, at no cost to parents!

Just like in Claudia’s visit, a registered nurse provides support on everything from feeding and sleeping to child care options — all from the comfort of home. Nurses will even connect parents to community resources, strengthening families and building brighter futures from the very beginning.

Your gift helps make this possible. Here’s how:

$25 supports a Family Connects bundle for a family with a newborn.
A monthly gift of $60 supports a Family Connects nurse visit for a family with a newborn.
$150 provides a Family Connects bundle for six families with newborns.
$700 supports a Family Connects nurse visit for a family with a newborn.

Donate today

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

« Older Entries

Meet Amanda, a parent from Circle of Parents

by Illuminate Colorado | Dec 4, 2025 | Circle of Parents, Impact

Building brighter futures starts with creating spaces where families feel supported, connected, and empowered. Illuminate Colorado’s Circle of Parents program does just that—offering free, peer-led support groups for parents and caregivers.

These groups create a space where parents and caregivers can connect, share experiences, and strengthen their families. With the added benefit of Children’s Circle, kids are nurtured in a safe environment while their caregivers receive support.

Circle of Parents is just one way that Illuminate Colorado strengthens families and builds brighter childhoods.

And your gift helps make this possible. Here’s how:

$54: Provides a parent and their children access to a month of a Circle of Parents group, including Children’s Circle.
$100: Supports a trained Circle of Parents facilitator for a week.
$150: Covers food and supplies for a Circle of Parents group for one month.
$450: Funds a single session of a Circle of Parents group for up to 10 families.
$650: Supports one Circle of Parents participant and their children annually, including the costs of Children’s Circle.

Donate today

Reflecting on a Decade of Policy Work

Ten Years of Prevention: What We’ve Learned

Chanise’s Story: Finding Support through Illuminating Child Care

« Older Entries

Illuminating Child Care: Breaking Barriers for Families Across Colorado

by Illuminate Colorado | Oct 2, 2025 | Child Care, Impact

A recreational vehicle retrofitted into an infant and toddler child care classroom

Finding child care is hard enough. For parents navigating recovery, unemployment, housing instability, and child welfare involvement, it can feel impossible. That’s why Illuminate Colorado’s Illuminating Child Care (ICC) program exists—to remove one of the biggest barriers to treatment and support: safe, reliable child care.

And this past year, the results were powerful.

A Year of Growth and Impact

Between July 2024 and June 2025, Illuminating Child Care:

Cared for 148 children, a 38% increase from last year.
Supported 104 caregivers, who were then able to attend 2,300+ hours of treatment.
Expanded to 15 sites across three regions, adding new services in both the San Luis Valley and Denver Metro area.

Families used services an average of eight times a year, but one family relied on ICC 95 times, showing both the depth of need and the program’s role in keeping recovery on track.

Meeting Families Where They Are

Illuminating Child Care is delivered in a unique way: retrofitted RVs that have been transformed into classrooms for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. These classrooms travel to behavioral health and family support centers, reducing barriers by bringing care directly to families where and when they need it most.

Illuminate staff member playing with two toddlers

This year, ICC classrooms gave children a safe, nurturing space to play, learn, and grow, while giving caregivers the ability to focus fully on their recovery.

As one parent shared:

“It’s nice knowing they [children] are close to you. If they need anything, I could just walk over there. Also, they [teachers] have a warmth to them. They just seem like they are really good with kids, and you can tell—when I bring her, she’s happy.”

Why This Matters

The need is urgent. Nationally, only 1 in 19 treatment centers (just 5.5%) provide child care. Research shows that difficulty finding child care is one of the strongest predictors of maternal neglect, outweighing even the severity of drug use or a history of trauma.

Here in Colorado, most ICC participants are single parents (2 in 3), half are unemployed, and nearly one-third are involved with child welfare. These challenges are compounding and demonstrate the importance of having a no-cost, high-quality child care model that engages families in building Protective Factors.

Caregivers Agree: ICC Works

Caregivers overwhelmingly report that ICC is essential:

100% say their child’s needs are being met
95% say services are always necessary for them to participate in treatment
100% are satisfied or very satisfied with the program

Or, as one participant put it:

“For a little while, I did have him coming with me, but it was just not great…Either it would be hard for everyone to focus—or I would have to leave the group to take care of him and then be missing a lot of it.”

Looking Ahead

As demand continues to grow, Illuminate Colorado is deepening partnerships and continuing to convene a statewide advisory board of experts to guide program sustainability. Together, we’re working to ensure that more families have access to this critical support.

Because when parents are able to focus on healing, kids get the safe, stable, nurturing care they deserve and families have a brighter path forward.

View the Full 2024-2025 ICC Report