New Collaboration Targets Urgent Health Challenges in Colorado
UnitedHealth Group’s Rocky Mountain Health Plans has announced a $30 million commitment to address important health issues in Colorado. Funds will be used for youth mental health support services which, according to America’s Health Rankings, has been identified as a need in the state. In addition, funds will be invested in education to help grow and diversify the future health workforce.
“Addressing youth mental health was a top priority of the attorney general’s office before the pandemic — and is even more urgent after its impact. This $30 million investment in education and mental health for young Coloradans has the power to change the lives of thousands,” said Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, whose office helped facilitate contributions to several nonprofits in Colorado. “I am pleased to partner with Rocky Mountain Health Plans to support youth mental health, increase healthy outcomes, and decrease the use of the criminal justice system to address behavioral health challenges — now and in the future.”
About the Healthy Youth/Strong Colorado Fund
Learn about the organizations funded by the Healthy Youth/Strong Colorado Fund.
Initial grant partnerships formalized and funded with the $5 million Healthy Youth/Strong Colorado Fund include:
- $1,800,000 to Mile High Youth Corps, Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, and Western Colorado Conservation Corps to provide a new criminal justice diversion program promoting employment, education, mental health support and service opportunities to youth.
- $1,500,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado to expand programming and serve more youth across the state.
- $500,000 to Sources of Strength to expand access to youth suicide prevention programs in schools.
- $400,000 to The Center on Colfax to support career counseling, empowerment and mental health services for LGBTQ young adults.
- $400,000 to The Place to increase stability and support for youth experiencing homelessness in El Paso County.
“This donation reflects Rocky Mountain Health Plans’ long-standing commitment in Colorado. We are honored to work with Colorado’s leaders to address the urgent challenges we face, such as the need for better access to behavioral health care. We are committed to creating opportunities for all Coloradans to achieve their full potential,” said Patrick Gordon, CEO of Rocky Mountain Health Plans. “This investment will significantly strengthen the resources and impact of the Rocky Mountain Health Foundation, whose mission we share.”
About Rocky Mountain Health Foundation
Aligned with UnitedHealth Group’s long-term commitment to advancing health equity, the Rocky Mountain Health Foundation awards grants for programs and services that improve conditions for marginalized, socially, or economically disadvantaged people.
“This remarkable donation paves the way to do more good things on the Western Slope,” said Pat Riddell, chair of the Rocky Mountain Health Foundation. “We are very grateful and look forward to partnering with Rocky Mountain Health Plans and UnitedHealthcare to connect people with the programs and services they need to live healthier and happier lives.”
Health Equity
Learn more about how we are working to help build a health workforce as diverse as the people we serve and improve the health of underserved communities.
