Mountain Pride: A Ripple Effect of Support for the LGBTQIA+ Community
Mountain Pride has continuously worked to improve the lives of LGBTQIA+ people in Colorado’s mountains through four key program areas: education, connection, advocacy, and access to resources. By increasing year-round programming and continuing to hold its annual Pride in the Park event, Mountain Pride is establishing safe spaces, connection, and understanding for the LGBTQIA+ community, with a ripple effect that extends outward into the lives of families, friends, allies, and beyond.
In its short existence, Mountain Pride has made a profound impact on the lives of adult residents and youth. Historically, LGBTQIA+ people have faced challenges, including increased risk of suicide and lack of resources and support when embracing their identity in rural communities or small towns like those in Eagle County. By continuing to develop its programs and partnerships, Mountain Pride has stepped up to address these challenges in a place of great need.
2019
- ▸No coordinated services serving the LGBTQIA+ community
2020
- ▸First-ever Pride celebration held in Eagle County
- ▸Grassroots efforts began to build LGBTQIA+ visibility, support, and community
- ▸Locally initiated and organized events, education, and advocacy efforts in Eagle County
2021
- ▸Second Pride in the Park hosted with 500 attendees
- ▸Continued grassroots organizing to expand events, education, and community support
- ▸Laid the foundation for formalizing Mountain Pride as a nonprofit organization
2022
- ▸Official formation of Mountain Pride as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
- ▸Third Pride in the Park hosted with 1,000 attendees
- ▸5,200+ touchpoints through education, advocacy, connection, and resource navigation
- ▸Expanded year-round programming into Summit and Lake counties
- ▸64.9% of LGBTQIA+ survey respondents in Eagle County said, “I can trust people in this community.”
2023
- ▸6,000 touchpoints through programming across Summit, Lake, and Eagle counties
- ▸Fourth annual Pride in the Park welcomed 2,000 attendees in celebration and solidarity
- ▸Offered monthly programs in Summit County and began programs in Lake County to expand regional reach
- ▸Hosted annual Friendsgiving celebration, providing a welcoming space for over 70 community members
2024
- ▸10,000+ touchpoints with individuals across Summit, Lake, and Eagle counties
- ▸Pride in the Park celebrated with 2,800 community members and allies
- ▸In Eagle County, 87.7% of LGBTQIA+ survey respondents said, “I can trust people in this community.”
- ▸2,144+ volunteer hours contributed
- ▸112 individuals received free HIV/STI testing
- ▸Trained 323 teachers, medical providers, and other professionals in LGBTQIA+ cultural competency to foster more inclusive and affirming environments
