By order of Sheriff Darren Weekly, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place for unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Ordinance No. O-012-004 restricts open fires, open burning, and the use of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Douglas County. Additional information on fire restrictions stages can be located at the Douglas County Emergency Management website.
Join us from 4-6 p.m. Aug. 15 at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock
Posted on August 6, 2025 2025News and Events
Over the last 20 years, nearly 3,000 young people in Douglas County have used their voices to better the lives of youth in our community through the Douglas County Youth Initiative. Now, it’s time to celebrate the impact this group has had on our community!
Join us at the Millhouse at Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock (1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock) on Friday, Aug. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. for an evening of fun, ice cream, games and celebration as we honor two decades of supporting youth in our community. This event is free, and no RSVP is required.
Whether you’ve been part of our journey or just want to join the fun, this event is for you — families, teens, kids, and community champions alike.
“We know that today’s youth are navigating immense pressures and challenges that didn’t exist a generation ago,” shared Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon, Chair of the Youth Initiative Advisory Board. “That’s why we remain deeply committed to supporting them — not just through services, but by creating opportunities to connect, lead, and thrive. This 20-year milestone is a celebration of that commitment and the young people who inspire it.”
What is the Youth Initiative?
For two decades, the Douglas County Youth Initiative has been at the heart of youth support in our community. Through programs such as the Outstanding Youth Awards, Youth Congress and WrapAround, the Douglas County Youth Initiative coordinates local youth-serving efforts and assesses the needs of the youngest residents by envisioning a community in which youth are involved, valued, productive and protected.
It brings together local government, law enforcement, schools, nonprofits, and families to help youth thrive. Through collaboration and action, the Initiative:
Whether it’s supporting at-risk youth, uplifting student voices, or creating safe spaces for growth, the Youth Initiative has helped shape a brighter future for countless young people in Douglas County.
The Douglas County Youth Initiative is a collaboration among Douglas County, Douglas County Schools, Douglas County Libraries, the City of Castle Pines, the City of Lone Tree, the Town of Castle Rock, the Town of Parker, and the Highlands Ranch Metro District. The goal of this collaboration is to involve high school students in decisions that affect them. The initiative is guided by a board of elected officials from each member organization.
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