November 2025 

The Rocky Mountains are not simply a backdrop for the YMCA of the Rockies mission. For the Indigenous communities whose ancestors have called this land home for thousands of years, these mountains carry a much deeper meaning — and YMCA of the Rockies is honored to be part of bringing that connection to life. 

We are pleased to share that the Indigenous Access Endowment has been fully funded through the Climbing Higher campaign. This endowment ensures ongoing support for language and culture camps hosted at YMCA of the Rockies in collaboration with Tribal representatives, as well as cultural exchange opportunities, Tribal consultation, and educational programming for YMCA of the Rockies staff, guests, and campers. 

Since 2022, YMCA of the Rockies has partnered with the Northern and Southern Arapaho Tribes to host an annual language and culture camp — supporting their work to preserve language, culture, history, and traditions. The 2025 language camp was supported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Right Relationship Boulder, and YMCA of the Rockies. Click here to read about the camp and its impact in Colorado Outdoors Magazine.