Aurora, Colo.-based Children’s Hospital Colorado and Healthier Colorado have launched a statewide initiative aimed at making youth mental health a top priority in Colorado’s 2026 gubernatorial race.
The effort — Mind Our Future Colorado — calls on gubernatorial candidates to commit to policy solutions focused on three areas: health foundations for young minds, a mental health system built for kids and mental health access for families, according to a March 10 news release from Children’s Hospital Colorado.
The coalition currently includes more than 40 healthcare, early childhood, business and consumer organizations.
“It’s clear that children and families need more support for mental health in the right place, at the right time. As Colorado prepares to elect a new governor, we’re joining youth, healthcare experts and community leaders across the state in calling for a commitment from candidates that child and youth mental health be a top priority this election,” Jena Hausmann, president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Colorado, said in the release.
The coalition plans to gather input on policy solutions and outreach efforts across the state, including a gubernatorial candidate forum scheduled for May 28.
