TESTIMONIES

“CBCEC opened doors I didn’t even know existed. Before joining the program, I had passion but no pathway.
Now I understand how Denver’s civic landscape works, I have mentors who believe in me, and I’m preparing
to apply for a city advisory board. This program truly shifts what’s possible for Black leadership in Colorado.”

“As a young Black leader in Aurora, I never felt like my voice mattered in policy conversations—until CBCEC.
They gave me tools, confidence, and a statewide network that listens. Now I’m organizing in my school district
and speaking up with boldness.”

“CBCEC is the first initiative that truly invests in Black-led organizing from the ground up in Pueblo.
The training, micro-grants, and connections helped our organization grow its capacity and expand our impact
in ways we couldn’t before.”

“Across Colorado—from the Front Range to the Western Slope—CBCEC is building bridges that never existed.
They connect rural and urban communities, foster collaboration, and make sure Black voices are seen and
heard at every level of decision-making.”

“The support I received through CBCEC was life-changing. They walked with me through every step—from
understanding the application process to preparing for the interview. Today, I’m proud to serve on a Colorado
Springs advisory board, representing my community with strength.”

“CBCEC’s technical assistance helped us create stronger financial systems, improve our strategic planning,
and rethink how we engage our community statewide. The micro-grant we received filled a critical funding
gap and allowed us to expand our outreach by 200%.”

“The Regional Equity Summit was one of the most powerful gatherings I’ve ever attended. Seeing so many Black
leaders from Denver, Aurora, Pueblo, the Western Slope, and beyond in one room—learning, planning, strategizing—
was transformational. It reminded me that we are not alone in this work.”

“CBCEC is doing what many organizations talk about but rarely accomplish—building real, sustainable Black civic
power in Colorado. Their leadership development, coalition-building, and equity work are reshaping what’s
possible for our state.”