Teen Connections Program
In collaboration with Colorado Department of Education
Marion Downs Center and the D/HH Leadership Team are seeking 10–15 outstanding Deaf and Hard of Hearing high school students from across Colorado to serve as 2026–2027 D/HH High School Mentors!
This is more than a title — it’s an opportunity to lead, inspire, and represent the D/HH community statewide.
WHAT IS TEEN CONNECTIONS?
A Leadership Development program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing teenagers.
WHO IS TEEN CONNECTIONS FOR?
Students in their sophomore or junior year (2025-2026 school year) with hearing challenges
WHERE DOES TEEN CONNECTIONS TAKE PLACE?
Multiple events including Dianne Goberis DHH Track and Field Day
The Traits We Are Looking For:
- Strong leaders and self-starters
- Effective communicators
- Passionate about helping others
- Positive role models within their school and community
What will Teen Mentors do?
- Support the Dianne Goberis Track & Field Day as a lead volunteer
- Share their personal stories with educators and families across Colorado
- Participate in a leadership development workshop
- Provide mentorship and support at events throughout the 2026–2027 school year
Selection Process
Students will:
- Complete an application
- Be selected based on recommendations from their current support staff
- Represent diverse regions and backgrounds across Colorado
We are committed to ensuring representation from across the state and uplifting a variety of lived experiences.
A Personal Invitation Matters
As educators, your voice carries tremendous weight.
We strongly encourage you to personally invite students who you believe would thrive in this role.
Sometimes, all it takes is one adult saying, “I see leadership in you.”
Let’s work together to empower the next generation of D/HH leaders in Colorado.