Urban Peak

06/02/2026

Happy Pride! 🌈

Did you know? LGBTQ+ young people are 3-4 times more likely to experience homelessness than their heterosexual/cisgender peers. In Fiscal Year 2024, q***r youth made up 28% of Urban Peak’s clients served, despite representing less than 10% of the population.

Major factors for this disparity include unsupportive home environments, systemic discrimination and a lack of resources.

At Urban Peak, youth of all identities are respected and celebrated. You are always welcome with us. 💜

05/28/2026

Mars Pursues their Dreams ⭐

Freshly 24 (happy belated birthday!), Mars has been shining at Urban Peak with their kindness, self-advocacy and dedication to building a brighter future.

Since joining our program, they’ve secured vital resources, built strong community connections and continued pursuing their dream of becoming an author and English teacher. ✍️

As they prepare to move to Missouri with their partner, we’re cheering them on every step of the way. 💙

05/26/2026

Affordable housing matters. Just ask Maddie.

When Maddie entered Urban Peak’s shelter in January 2026, she made it clear she would not stay long — and she didn’t.

By quickly engaging with services, focusing on her employment goals and working closely with her case manager, she secured an affordable housing voucher in a matter of months and moved into her own apartment at Broadway Lofts.

Now with a solid foundation from which to grow, Maddie is employed, engaged in ongoing support and building a path forward — representing one of the fastest transitions through Urban Peak’s programs. 😊

05/21/2026

May is Affordable Housing Month 🏡

But what does “affordable housing” actually mean?

It means housing costs no more than 30% of a person’s income including utilities, according to the US government. More importantly, it means stability, safety and a chance to breathe.

“Our housing gives youth a foundation to grow from — often for the first time in their lives,” says Urban Peak’s Director of Housing, Marita Wyatt. “Once they have a place to start, we can meet them where they are and create an individualized case management plan for their unique journey. The ultimate goal is long-term stability.”

Because having a safe place to land changes everything. 💛

05/14/2026

A new article from Next City dives deeper into how Urban Peak's campus, The Mothership, reinvents youth homeless services.

It's more than just a building- it's a national model that "helps youth transition out of homelessness significantly faster and cheaper than more traditional options," per new findings from independent research firm QREM.

For youth like C.J., The Mothership is "a warm, safe place to go and be welcomed under the wings of other people."

By combining shelter and wraparound services under one roof, Urban Peak is moving homeless youth to permanent housing in 33 days. Here's how.

05/14/2026

Colorado's Visionary Leaders

CO Expression's "Leadership Profile" series highlights innovative leaders who are changing the game in their industries, and we're thrilled to share that Urban Peak CEO Christina Carlson was featured in the latest issue.

Christina shared, “I hope that communities across the country come to see what we're doing [with The Mothership] at Urban Peak and imagine what can be done in their neighborhoods... Our clients and teams deserve more dignified spaces."

Thank you, Colorado Expression, for highlighting our critical work. Check out the full profile on page 31 of the confetti issue: https://www.coloradoexpression.com/magazine-library/

📸: John Johnston Photography

05/07/2026

Five Nights at C.J.’s 👾🎨

C.J. has been hard at work for the last month crafting his own papier-mâché mask inspired by one of his favorite horror games, Five Nights at Freddy’s.

What started as a personal project quickly grew in popularity, so C.J. opened it up as a group for other youth at The Mothership. What fun and creative characters do you think youth will make next?

04/30/2026

⭐ Sway’s Drive to Independence ⭐

Sway (18) is an independent, upbeat young man. After moving from My Place to Mary’s Place, he built confidence, friendships and a reputation for advocating for others.

With staff support, Sway earned his GED, attained a job and began trade school to become an auto technician! Next, he’s preparing to move to The Peak neighborhood and continue his path toward independence and success.

04/23/2026

Volunteers’ Impact in Action 🤝

In recognition of National Volunteer Month, shout out to our incredible community of volunteers! Urban Peak volunteers make a direct impact on our youth in a variety of ways:

🐶 Rufus and Lisa provide weekly comfort
🥪 RevGen served lunch to 50+ youth
👕 Our Ignite board ensured youth can access summer clothing
🏦 Liberty Media practiced business idea pitches Shark Tank-style with youth
🎾 AdventHealth organized equipment for youth outings

04/16/2026

Nona Follows Her Dreams ✨

Since landing at The Mothership in October, Nona (21) has devoted herself to her goals, working hard every week to follow her passion and find a job in hair and nails.

Her determination paid off: Nona recently enrolled in cosmetology school at Emily Griffith Technical College. She also moved up to our independent living Neighborhood, The Peak, where she spends her days making jewelry and painting flowers. Keep up the great work!