Empower Media Exchange Co

Building a more informed, connected & empowered Colorado. 

OUR STORY

Empower Media Exchange (EMX) was born from a deep concern about the changing media landscape – one where profit often takes priority over purpose, and where communities are too often left out of the stories that shape their lives. We saw a widening gap between local organizations doing meaningful work and the media platforms that could amplify their impact. As a result, essential stories weren't being told, misinformation was spreading and trust in journalism was severely damaged. 

EMX exists to change that. 

We are rebuilding the bridge between communities and information by creating ethical, trustworthy and community-driven storytelling. Our work ensures that voices from Colorado's Front Range – especially those historically overlooked by mainstream news – are heard, respected and represented. 

OUR MISSION

EMX strengthens the local news and communications ecosystem by: 

- Advancing Media Literacy: We train youth, students and adults to think critically about media, recognize misinformation and tell stories that uplift their communities. 

- Develop Workforce Pathways: We equip the next generation of journalists, creators and communicators with real-world skills through internships, mentorship and hands-on training programs. 

- Supporting Nonprofits Through Strategic Narrative: We help mission-driven organizations clarify their message, strengthen public trust and communicate with purpose through storytelling, media strategy and ethical content production. 

OUR PROGRAMS

Since our creation, EMX has successfully partnered with organizations serving Colorado's Front Range. We have: 

• Provided Digital Defense training to parents and youth, helping families recognize misinformation, protect their privacy online, and navigate today’s media environment with confidence.

• Helped single parents discover the power of their voice through trauma-informed creative writing and storytelling courses that promote healing, self-expression, and advocacy.

• Facilitated “Office Hours” for nonprofit leaders, offering direct support in grant writing, editorial development, and narrative strategy to help organizations communicate their impact more effectively.

• Launched Front Range Focus, a community-fueled multimedia co-op and digital news website amplifying local stories, events and voices often underrepresented in mainstream media.

• Partnered with schools and youth-serving organizations to introduce media literacy and storytelling programs that prepare students for careers in communications, journalism and digital media.

• Produced community storytelling projects including podcasts and editorial series that highlight a broad range of perspectives and strengthen public trust in local news.

• Created the "Community Information Commons," a collaborative network that connects residents, journalists and local organizations to share reliable information, strengthen civic engagement and ensure that all communities have access to stories that matter – without paywalls, restrictions or preferential bias.  

Through these efforts, EMX continues to empower individuals, elevate authentic stories and build a healthier, more inclusive information ecosystem across Colorado.

WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS

Every dollar raised through ColoradoGives helps EMX deliver media literacy workshops in schools, launch youth storytelling labs, produce community news stories and train nonprofit leaders to share their missions effectively. 

By supporting EMX, you are investing in a stronger democracy, a more informed public and a thriving Colorado where information serves the people – not profits. 

Join us in creating an ecosystem where everyone's story matters!