Jerry's Aspen Effect Fundraiser

I started The Aspen Effect in 2017.  In just 8 years, so many wonderful people have become involved to help prevent youth mental health crisis.  We now serve over 240 youth per year with a pool of 55 volunteer mentors!  In 2026, we will continue to expand our programming to support parents and the prevention of substance use disorder (SUD).  I am convinced there is nothing more important I can be doing with my life right now than building future parents, teachers and leaders...and literally saving lives, one youth at a time.  

Douglas County continues to face a youth mental health crisis, with suicide rates above the national average. Without intervention, too many young people risk slipping through the cracks. They are isolated, overwhelmed, and without the support they desperately need.

That’s why The Aspen Effect exists. Operating from Happy Dog Ranch in Sedalia, we know that every youth deserves the chance to connect with caring mentors, gentle animals, and the healing power of the outdoors. When these connections don’t happen, the cost is measured in lost potential, broken families, and lives cut tragically short. But when they do, something remarkable unfolds.

Your support ensures no youth has to face this crisis alone. Without you, these opportunities for resilience and healing could be lost. With you, they become lifelines of hope. Learn more at www.theaspeneffect.org.