CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussion of suicide, which may be triggering for some individuals. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is dealing with thoughts of self harm, please call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
From the Happy Crew website: “Colorado ranks 41st in the US for youth mental health treatment access, with 26% of teens reporting persistent hopelessness. These aren't just statistics — they're stories waiting to be rewritten. Since 2007, Happy Crew has been showing teens they matter and belong, creating spaces where feeling alone transforms into finding community.”
Amy Mays is founder of Happy Crew, a Douglas County nonprofit organization dedicated to helping kids and families develop the skills they need to thrive emotionally and socially.
Amy brings a thoughtful and uplifting approach to this work, and in this episode, she talks about the mission behind Happy Crew, how they’re supporting students in our community, and some simple, practical ways families can reinforce these skills at home.
Happy Crew Events:
Sunday, April 19
Do you have a teenager in your life who is looking for community and a little pre-final exams fun? Join the Lone Tree Youth Commission and Happy Crew for Real Talk, an event for local teens to connect with their community and focus on mental health.
When: 2-6 p.m.
Where: Prairie Sky Park in Lone Tree, 9381 Crossington Way
What: Local teenagers can spend time with friends at Prairie Sky Park with yard games, music, and relaxing before the end of the school year. Hear from former Nuggets player Mark Randall about mental health and the importance of strong community. Grab a snack from Mile High Tikka Express food truck – the first 100 attendees get a ticket for a free item!
RSVP: https://go.cityoflonetree.com/realtalk-RSVP
Monday, April 20
End of Year Celebration at the Happy Crew Coffee House
All High Schoolers are welcome to Happy Crew. Dinner will be provided.
When: 7-8 p.m.
Where: 9044 Forsstrom Dr., Lone Tree, CO
Guest this episode
Amy Mays
Host
Amy Pfister, community relations coordinator for DCSD
Resources
About Parent University
Parent University is a special edition of DCSD Notebook and will appear in this feed monthly. For several years, Parent University has provided training, information, and resources for parents and caregivers. By partnering with community organizations and other agencies to equip families with additional knowledge, skills and resources, Parent University supports and empowers parents and caregivers to become leaders and advocates for their children's learning. This year, Parent University has transitioned from a live Zoom meeting to a podcast format to allow parents to listen to the conversations at their convenience; provide time and accessibility for guests to delve deeper into conversation; and save staff time with streamlined production.
Thank you to our Parent University podcast sponsor, HCA HealthONE Sky Ridge for their continued support and partnership.
