Empowering the Next Generation: HEYA's Journey Towards Health Equity

The Health Equity Youth Alliance (HEYA) is a dynamic initiative born from the Community Leaders in Health Equity (CLHE) program, aiming to empower the youth of San Luis Valley. Residents from San Luis, Antonito, and Saguache came together for an 18-month program, resulting in the launch of this youth-led, youth-driven project. HEYA officially began in April 2023, bringing together youth from local initiatives Move Mountains in San Luis, Antonito Together, and HEART of Saguache.

The journey started with a two-week convening in July and August 2023, focused on building capacity and providing anti-oppression training. Monthly meetings followed, rotating between the three communities. These gatherings allowed youth to form strong relationships and learn from local leaders, including Town Board members, County Commissioners, School Board members, and Nonprofits. In August, the youth reconvened to hone their community organizing skills, discussing pressing issues and developing a plan to address them. Their efforts are now directed towards a campaign to change school policies, aiming to gather community support and present their proposals to school boards in September and October 2024.

HEYA Launches Valley-Wide Youth-Led Project

This month marks the beginning of Convening, the HEART of Saguache’s Health Equity Youth Alliance's (HEYA) pilot program, focusing on a Valley-wide project designed and led by youth. These young leaders are set to tackle critical issues they have identified within their communities, ensuring their voices and perspectives drive meaningful change.

Special thanks to Transformative Alliances for their expert facilitation and to our dedicated adult mentors for their unwavering support. Together, we are empowering the next generation to create a healthier, more equitable future for all.

Colcha Embroidery Workshop a Hit at the Saguache County Museum

On Sunday, June 2nd, the San Luis Valley Colcha Embroidery project hosted a free workshop at the Saguache County Museum. The workshop was at capacity, with most attendees being residents of Saguache County. Participants delved into the history of colcha embroidery in the San Luis Valley, learned the traditional colcha stitch, and examined artwork examples and a library of publications on the topic. Afterwards, everyone picnicked in the front of the museum. 

A heartfelt thanks goes to our dedicated instructors from San Luis and Monte Vista, who traveled to Saguache to lead the workshop: Maria Eufemia Barela, Donna Madrid Hernandez, Aurora Martinez, and Julia Mondragon. Special thanks to our local colcha embroidery experts Patsy Garcia and Delores Worley, who provided invaluable assistance. Patsy and Delores were part of the original La Costura de Saguache group of stitchers in the 1970s. Lastly, thank you to the Saguache County Museum for hosting the event.

This event was made possible through a partnership between the HEART of Saguache, The Range, the Saguache County Museum, and the Colorado Creative Industries’ Folk and Traditional Arts Project Grant. We look forward to continuing the workshops and supporting a stitching group for Saguache.