We envision a community where:
- There is no stigma about depression.
- Community members are able to identify depression early.
- Seeking help is viewed as a sign of strength.
- Suicide is no longer considered a solution.
Our mission:
We educate, engage, and empower the community about depression awareness and suicide prevention in order to save lives.
Hope Events:
The HOPE Coalition provides the following events and resources free to our community:
- HOPE LIGHTS THE NIGHT: Annual Candlelight Vigil in remembrance of those lost to suicide for the community
- HOPE COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: A gathering of hope and inspiration to remove the stigma around depression and suicide, raise awareness, and provide information about local resources for youth and families.
- GATEKEEPERS’ TRAINING: Provides education, awareness, and resources on depression awareness and suicide risk reduction for the community.
A Community Dedicated to Overcoming Depression and Suicide
The HOPE Coalition of Boulder County was formed in 2005 with a $5000 grant from the Gary Barnett Foundation in the name of former CU Buff football player Gabe Oderberg who took his life in September 2004 at the age of 23.
Concerned citizens from Boulder Valley School District, CU, Parent Engagement Network, Boulder County agencies, Colie’s Closet and parents formed the Coalition almost overnight to address the issues of depression and suicide.
The Coalition’s first educational event, called the Gatekeepers’ Event in 2005, was attended by over 200 people. The second was attended by 160 in spite of blizzard conditions.
This was a tangible indication that our community was interested in learning about how to deal with depression and suicide.
HOPE Events
In 2007 the Coalition continued to define itself and evolve while providing other educational events for parents. These are called HOPE events.
We continue to be funded by the generous yearly grants from the Gary Barnett Foundation along with other donations from the community.
The HOPE Coalition of Boulder County operates under the auspices of Colie’s Closet. Colie’s Closet is a 501(c) nonprofit peer education organization established in 2004.
Learn About Our Coalition Members