Douglas County proclaims Aug. 11–15, 2025 as Youth Week to mark 20th anniversary of Youth Initiative

The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday proclaiming Aug. 11–15, 2025 as Douglas County Youth Week in recognition of the twentieth anniversary of the Douglas County Youth Initiative.

The resolution, presented by Marsha Austin, director of the Douglas County Youth Initiative, notes that DCYI launched in 2005 and said the program has reached more than 3,000 young people through programs including youth congress, local youth commissions, mentoring and wraparound supports. "Happy twentieth anniversary, DCYI," Commissioner Layden said during the ceremony before the board voted.

The resolution text highlights partnerships with municipal governments and local agencies, naming Castle Rock, Parker, Lone Tree, Castle Pines, the Douglas County Libraries, the Douglas County School District and the Highlands Ranch Metro District as ongoing partners. Youth Initiative participants and alumni joined commissioners for remarks and a photo after the vote. Rock Canyon High School junior Preston Kanter spoke for the youth commissioners and thanked the board for its support.

Commissioners praised the initiative's youth awards, La Liga soccer program for non-native English speakers, and its wraparound services that support students facing truancy and other challenges. The board took the measure as a formal resolution during the ceremonies portion of its business meeting; the resolution was moved, seconded and carried unanimously.

The proclamation was ceremonial and does not create new county policy or funding. The board noted an upcoming public celebration Friday at the MAC in Castle Rock featuring an event for current and former advisory board members and youth commissioners.

Speakers at the presentation encouraged residents to attend the anniversary event and acknowledged Marsha Austin for long-term leadership of the initiative.