About Us
Empowering Bright Beginnings for Thriving Futures
The BCDI-Colorado Affiliate was chartered in 2015, committing to programs addressing early learning, health, family engagement, and literacy, along with advocacy efforts for positive outcomes for Black children and families.
Our Story
The journey to establish NBCDI's Denver Affiliate chapter began with three founding members from The Nest Matters (TNM), namely Cassandra Johnson, Dorothy Shapland, and Sena Harjo. These early childhood experts, alumni of the Buell Early Childhood Leaders Program, received an action research grant from the Buell Early Childhood Leaders Network to fund the project. Their mission was to focus on early child development, from prenatal stages to the point where children prepare to leave the nest.
A pivotal community forum was held on September 11, 2014, at the Renaissance Hotel in Denver, where leaders in the nonprofit sector, child and family services, education, parents, caregivers, and community members gathered to discuss the potential of establishing an Affiliate Chapter. The Denver Interest Group of BCDI, tirelessly worked for nine months to secure an Affiliate chapter and were chartered on June 6, 2015. This organization would, with support from the national office, implement programs and provide resources addressing early learning, health and wellness, family engagement, and literacy. Simultaneously, the Denver Affiliate committed to advocacy efforts aimed at achieving positive outcomes for Black children and their families.
The Denver Affiliate's commitment extended to partnering with local organizations working with the African American community in Denver, with the goal of closing gaps, connecting service providers, and creating a local network for a dispersed community.
In 2019, our efforts aimed to expand our reach beyond Denver's confines and provide support to communities throughout the entire state. BCDI-Denver collaborated with the National Black Child Development Institute, leading to our rebranding as BCDI-Colorado. Over the past three years, our chapter diligently conducted a comprehensive assessment of community needs and evaluated our infrastructure to enhance our ability to serve, culminating in our transformation into BCDI-Colorado.
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to empower black children, families, and communities to thrive, flourish, and prosper by championing holistic well-being and fostering a bright future for all.
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BCDI-Colorado envisions a future where Colorado becomes a beacon of hope and prosperity for every Black child, family, and community. In this future, we see a state where Black children, regardless of their background, have equitable access to the highest quality education, comprehensive healthcare, and a wealth of opportunities, providing them with the tools they need to reach their full potential.