HISTORY

Voyager Youth Program was formed in 1997 by a group of concerned mothers who recognized the need for activities which would engage and interest kids, thereby keeping them healthy and safe in the after-school hours and during the long summer months. That year Voyager Youth Program operated its first, six-week summer program funded entirely by local entities and staffed primarily by volunteers. The success of the program expanded to the establishment of an after-school program at our two county schools in Ridgway and Ouray. Voyager Youth Program continues to provide the only full time after-school and summer youth enrichment program in our county. Additionally, we sponsor several anti-drug/alcohol events throughout the year aimed at youth and families.

The programs primary focus is our after-school and summer programs for elementary and middle school students. Research supports the theory that engaging the interest and intrigue of youth early in their lives and providing fun and interesting alternatives to risky behaviors has proven to be one of the most effective practices in preventing substance abuse in our youth. We also offer leadership opportunities and informal mentoring in a safe and supportive environment.

The current programs and activities of Voyager Youth Program include an after-school and school holiday program for elementary and middle school age youth, which includes homework help and tutoring, fun and educational field trips, healthy snacks, reading time, arts and crafts, and lots of fun and games. Our 11-week full time summer program for elementary and middle school youth includes rock climbing, hiking, camping, swimming at local pools, and many other experiential activities. Voyager Youth Program sponsors the Ouray County Indoor Rock Climbing Club, comprised of students from Ouray and Ridgway Schools. Voyager Youth Program also sponsors the San Juan Outdoor Learning Academy (SOLA) which runs adventure camps for youth during the summer. In association with Juvenile Diversion of San Miguel and Ouray County, a monthly Lunch Club is offered for middle school boys and girls in each county school as a discussion forum facilitated by a trained staff member, with students requesting topics and speakers on issues they are concerned with. Voyager Youth Program sponsors or co-sponsors at least four anti-drug/alcohol youth or youth/families events per year such as the After-Prom Party and half day Prevention Event in the spring.

Since our inception, Voyager Youth Program has served over 1000 youth through our after-school and summer enrichment programs. Because our small, remote county has no YMCA/YWCA, Boys or Girls clubs, recreation center or any other similar facility our program fills a need to provide a safe and healthy program for our youth. Results from the Colorado Youth Survey for the past several years have shown a reduction in 30 day and lifetime use of marijuana, inhalants, alcohol and cigarettes, as well as a reduction in youth perception of parental attitudes favoring drug use and a reduction in youth perception of the availability of drugs. Voyager Youth Program is clearly making a positive impact.