Homeowners working to complete tasks required to obtain a Wildfire Partners Certificate

Boulder County, Colo. - Ten members of Mile High Youth Corps (MHYC) of Denver have been busy cutting down trees, trimming grasses, and removing shrubs for homeowners in the Allenspark area this summer and fall. The work is helping homeowners who are part of Boulder County’s Wildfire Partners program protect their homes against wildfire.

This is the second consecutive year that Wildfire Partners and MHYC have worked in tandem to help homeowners complete required tasks to obtain a Wildfire Partners Certificate.

MHYC was founded by former Boulder County Commissioner Josie Heath in 1992 to bolster employment and educational opportunities for youth by training them to work on projects that would benefit the community. The program was partly inspired by the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s. For 27 years, MHYC has helped over 3,900 youth help make a difference in themselves and their community through meaningful service opportunities in four career pathways including land conservation, energy and water conservation, construction, and healthcare.

Rain or shine, the dedicated crew, ages 18-24, have been chipping, staging slash, and more while learning about wildfire mitigation. Participating homeowners expressed gratitude for the free services:

"Mile High [Youth Corps] did a great job on our property. From spreading buckets of gravel around the house to cutting bushes, trees and chipping to hauling all the slash. And great team work to boot. We truly appreciate all their work. Thank you! Thank you!" – Ann Green

"The volunteers did a superb job at our property today. They worked hard through the lousy weather as well." – Lisa Conti

Through this partnership, a total of 44 properties have benefited from the MHYC’s services. Corps members have also gained valuable experience over the course of the project, honing important skills.

"It’s been a very humbling experience knowing how much work goes into keeping a property safe." – Isaiah T., MHYC Land Conservation Corpsmember

Although the peak of wildfire season in Colorado has passed this year, residents are advised to not let their guards down. Wildfires can occur at any time of year in Boulder County. The 1990 Olde Stage Fire, which burned 3,000 acres and destroyed 10 homes, occurred west of Boulder in late November.

Apply to Wildfire Partners

Wildfire Partners helps Boulder County mountain and foothills homeowners prepare for wildfire. Applications are available at www.WildfirePartners.org. Call 303-441-1420 or email info@wildfirepartners.org for more information.