Colorado Connected is a campaign designed to inspire parents to build a network to turn to when they need “back up” and to encourage friends, families, and neighbors to become a “village” of support. The goal is to empower parents to ask for support, offer support to one another, and to normalize supportive parenting networks to create strong families.
There’s a reason they say, “It takes a village to raise a child.” It’s because it’s true! Every parent needs a network of community support to raise thriving, happy children. Having a network of people we trust gives us a sense of community and is strongly linked with physical and mental health, happiness, and longevity. Not just for us, but for our kids, too! A supportive network surrounding parents and families helps to reduce stress, fosters nurturing parenting habits so we can be at our best, and builds atmospheres where children flourish.
“Colorado Connected is more than just a campaign; it’s a movement to redefine the way we approach parenthood. We’re not just promoting support networks; we’re championing a culture of empathy and togetherness. By normalizing the idea of parents asking for help and communities coming together, we’re shaping a brighter future for Colorado families.”
-Ryan Kistler, Director of Communications at Illuminate Colorado
Support Parents In Your Community
By Building Connections
Making friends can be tough as an adult. Even though we all know we need support, sometimes saying so is easier said than done. Whether you are a parent, a grandparent, a teacher, a friend, or a neighbor, Colorado Connected has tips and tools to help you connect with your community.
Tip for parents: You can create your village
Family doesn’t just mean blood relatives. Family is an idea and a feeling that can be expanded to include friends, neighbors, and co-workers around you. You have the power to build your support system and create the village you need.
- Reach out. Taking the first step to make a connection is as simple as sending a message.
- Say what you need. Be specific about how people can support you. Most people want to be helpful, and appreciate knowing how.
It’s okay to be vulnerable. Remember the song Lean On Me? “No one can fill, those of your needs, that you don’t let show.” (If you are too young, google it, and watch the movie! It’s a classic.)
Tip for community members: Offer practical support
Practical support means we are offering the kind of support that a family needs. Dropping off dinner, offering a childcare break, coming over and listening, or offering emotional support and reassurance. Sometimes, offering a shoulder to cry on is the most helpful thing. Being clear to families in our circles that we are here and willing to do any of these things is the best way to build connected communities.
- Reach out. Taking the first step to make a connection is as simple as sending a message.
- Say what you need. Be specific about how people can support you. Most people want to be helpful, and appreciate knowing how.
It’s okay to be vulnerable. Remember the song Lean On Me? “No one can fill, those of your needs, that you don’t let show.” (If you are too young, google it, and watch the movie! It’s a classic.)
Find more tips for parents and villagers!
Head to COConnected.com to find more tips on building connections in your community.
Find More Tools for Connecting
Colorado Connected has numerous tools to help you connect with your community!
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