Mongolian Community of Colorado

Overview

The Mongolian Community of Colorado (MCC) is a vibrant 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization officially established in 1992. The roots of the Mongolian presence in Colorado trace back to the early 1990s, when the first students from Mongolia arrived to study at the Colorado School of Mines and the University of Colorado. Over the past three decades, this small group has grown into a dynamic, multigenerational community dedicated to cultural preservation, education, and unity among Mongolians living in Colorado.

Despite its impressive range of activities, MCC has never received grant funding. Every program and event has been sustained entirely through the volunteer efforts, passion, and contributions of community members, reflecting the strong sense of solidarity and shared purpose that defines Mongolian culture.

Sports and Recreation

MCC’s sports programs play a vital role in strengthening bonds within the community and promoting health and well-being. The organization supports several active sports clubs, including:

• Volleyball – one of the most popular and competitive activities, with regular tournaments and friendly matches.

• Soccer – uniting youth and adults through teamwork and recreation.

• Basketball – offering opportunities for both casual play and organized leagues.

• Bowling and Ping Pong Clubs – providing family-friendly activities that foster inclusion and community engagement.

• Hiking clubs strengthen the Mongolian diaspora by promoting health, building friendships, and creating consistent community engagement in nature. They help newcomers integrate, reduce stress, and provide a safe space for cultural connection while exploring the outdoors. Through these programs, MCC encourages collaboration, sportsmanship, and a healthy lifestyle while nurturing friendships across generations.

Arts and Cultural Heritage

MCC is deeply committed to preserving and promoting Mongolia’s rich cultural traditions. The Arts and Culture Division includes:

• Horsehead Fiddle (Morin Khuur) Ensembles, which perform at community and state events, sharing the iconic sounds of Mongolian heritage.

• "Uran biir", the Young Artists’ School, nurturing the next generation of artists.

• Private Music and Dance Classes, offered by dedicated community members who share their talents and knowledge.

• The Mongolian Poetry Club "Tulga", which celebrates classical and contemporary Mongolian literature through readings, discussions, and cultural evenings.

• Knucklebone shooting (shagai) plays a meaningful role in the Mongolian diaspora by strengthening cultural identity, connecting generations, and creating low-cost, family-friendly community gatherings. It helps youth learn traditional skills, encourages social bonding, and preserves a sense of belonging far from home.

These initiatives serve as bridges between generations and between cultures—allowing young Mongolian-Americans to stay connected to their roots while enriching Colorado’s multicultural landscape.

Education and Youth Development

Education is at the heart of MCC’s mission. From the earliest Mongolian students in the 1990s to today’s growing number of families and children, MCC continues to value academic achievement, leadership, and cultural pride. The Mongolian School of Colorado was established in 2001, where children learn Mongolian language, history, and traditional arts.

The organization aims to collaborate with local schools, universities, and partner organizations to create opportunities for academic mentorship, cultural education, and youth participation in community activities.

Community Engagement and Volunteerism

What truly distinguishes the Mongolian Community of Colorado is its spirit of volunteerism. Every cultural event, sports tournament, concert, and educational initiative is organized and led by community volunteers. Without relying on external grants, MCC has built a r network grounded in mutual respect, generosity, and a shared love for Mongolia and Colorado alike. Social support initiatives—including job fairs, career advising sessions, health-insurance guidance, tax advising workshops, and business start-up consultations—are regularly organized to help community members access essential resources and achieve economic stability- all voluntary based.

Looking Ahead

As MCC continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its founding vision: to unite, empower, and inspire the Mongolian community while fostering understanding and friendship within the broader Colorado society. With future goals including youth leadership programs, cultural exchanges, and community development projects, MCC stands as a living testament to the strength and spirit of Mongolians abroad. Now the community needs support in keeping the community sustainable with resilient institutional platform.