Through the City of Aspen’s 2025 grant cycle, local organizations are making a meaningful difference across the community.
Today, we’re highlighting Stepping Stones, along with Development Director Emily Cool Greener and Young Adult Program Coordinator Iona Tenorio Lujan, who share their experiences working with youth and the impact these programs have in creating connection, support, and opportunity for young people.
Stepping Stones’ first Young Adult Drop-In Center opened in 2014 for youth ages 14–21, meeting a critical need in Carbondale by providing a safe space where young people could connect, access resources, and receive support.
Stepping Stones offers programs for youth and young adults focused on mentoring, crisis intervention, mental health resources, educational support, and community building.
To learn more about Stepping Stones and their programs, visit their website.
City of Aspen Grants Cycle 2025
Through the City of Aspen’s 2025 grant cycle, local organizations are making a meaningful difference across the community.
Today, we’re highlighting @responsehelps_ and its Executive Director, Shannon Meyer. In the Roaring Fork Valley, Response provides a lifeline for survivors of domestic violence by offering safety, support, and a path forward.
For many survivors, the hardest decision is not whether to leave, but where they will go. Access to safe housing remains one of the greatest barriers, and fear of losing housing is a primary reason individuals stay in unsafe situations. Nationwide, domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness for women and children.
Response addresses this need through emergency shelter, advocacy, and ongoing support, walking alongside survivors as they rebuild their lives safely.
Attention Rider Alert!: Cemetery Lane Shuttle Detour May 13-May 15
Closure of the Slaughterhouse Bridge will temporarily impact Cemetery Lane shuttle service through Friday, May 15, 2026. Red Butte and Pitkin Mesa stops will be closed between 5pm and 12am, and service will detour through the Silver King Dr. neighborhood.
Riders that typically use the Cemetery Ln + Red Butte Dr (Stop ID 132) and Cemetery Ln + Pitkin Mesa Dr (Stop IDs: 167/61) stops will need to walk to a temporary stop on Silver King Dr. Normal service resumes Saturday, May 16.
For more information visit: /rider-alert-cemetery-lane-detour-temporary/
The Cultural Vibrancy Fellowship is a program that supports local artists financially while creating opportunities to connect with peers. This experience inspires artists to explore different disciplines and exchange ideas and feedback with one another. As Josefina shared, she built meaningful connections with fellow artists throughout her journey, and many fellows have stories to share.
This Thursday, May 14 at the Wheeler Opera House, join us for a special celebration where participants will share their experiences with the community. Presented by the Wheeler Opera House, Red Brick Center for the Arts, and the City of Aspen, the event will take place from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
This is a free community event! Reserve your tickets on the Wheeler Opera House website or click the link in our bio.
song credits: @josefinamendez
Join us to celebrate the fellows of the Cultural Vibrancy Fellowship 2026!
As Josefina shared, all fellows participating in this cycle have been working on art projects and sharing them with their peers. This grant provides an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore beyond the boundaries of each artistic discipline. Enjoy a night of art presentations, connect with local artists, and listen to their journeys throughout the program.
This May 14 at the Wheeler Opera House, join us for a special celebration where participants will share their experiences with the community. Presented by the Wheeler Opera House, Red Brick Center for the Arts, and the City of Aspen, the event will take place from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
This is a free community event!
Reserve your tickets on the Wheeler Opera House website or click the link in our bio.
song credits: Josefina Mendez
Dispose of electronic waste responsibly at the city of Aspen’s free e-waste drop-off event! Happening Saturday, May 16, 8am-12pm at the Marolt housing parking lot, 100 Marolt Place. Accepted items include small household electronics such as computers, TV’s and phones. Please no appliances, lightbulbs, batteries or items that may contain hazardous materials. Learn more at the link in our bio.
Mark your calendars 🎉 On June 27, 2026, Aspen Public Art and the City of Aspen proudly present the Mall Fest 50 Art Parade & Block Party, a vibrant, artist-led celebration of 50 years of the Aspen Pedestrian Mall.
Join us for a joyful procession of costumes, contraptions, and performances inspired by the theme: “What do you LOVE about this place?”
The parade will wind through the Mall and Aspen Saturday Market, ending with a lively block party at Sister Cities Plaza.
✨ Free & open to all, with community workshops, a costume contest with prizes valued up to $750 across categories like Best on Theme, Best Use of Upcycled Materials, Larger Than Life, and more, plus a photo booth!
There’s also a Costume Design Lab summer camp for kids ages 8–11 the week of June 22–26 at the Red Brick Center for the Arts. Scholarships available.
Parade registration is now open! Secure your spot by June 25th, link in @redbrickaspen ’s bio.
PC: Aspen Historical Society
#aspensummer #mallfest50 #redbrickaspen
City of Aspen Grants Cycle 2025!
Discover how the City of Aspen’s 2025 grant cycle has supported local organizations and created meaningful impact across our community over the past year.
Today, we’re highlighting the Roaring Fork Youth Orchestra and Co–Music Director Ross Kribbs, whose work inspires, educates, and empowers young musicians through orchestral training and performance.
Looking ahead, the 2026 grant cycle is just around the corner. Watch the April 14 City Council meeting (link in bio) to learn more and find out how you can be part of what’s next.
Today is National Lineman Appreciation Day, and we proudly recognize our linemen. Rain or shine, day or night, you keep our power flowing and our community connected. Thank you for your dedication, skill, and service! Join us in congratulating them!
Join us for a Community Meeting and Facility Tour at the Aspen Golf Clubhouse on Wednesday, April 22 from 4 to 6 p.m.
This is an opportunity for the entire community to come together, hear updates on the Facilities Master Plan, and review results from a recent community-wide survey.
Review the Master Plan through the link: /aspen-golf-club-master-facilities-plan
Discover how the city of Aspen’s 2025 grant cycle has supported local organizations and the meaningful impact these investments have had across our community over the past year.
Today, the city is proud to share the story of Film Educates, a program by Aspen Film with Regna Jones, head of education development programs.
Film Educates opens the door for students of all ages and backgrounds to experience the power of storytelling through film. The program fosters empathy, critical thinking, and meaningful dialogue while uplifting diverse perspectives.
If you are passionate about film or a young person looking to get involved, learn more at the Aspen Film website.
We also invite you to learn more about the city’s 2026 grant cycle. Visit the link in our bio to watch the City Council April 14 meeting and see how you can be part of what’s next.
Art in action at Public Art in the Making with @briancolley ✏️
A huge thank you to Brian Colley for bringing his incredible live drawing to life. It was such a special moment to witness creativity unfold in real time.
And thank you to everyone who came out to join us, connect, and celebrate public art together at “The Making.” Your presence is what makes these events so meaningful. More to come!
Thank you Mariela, @cityofaspen for the video
Until next time, stay tuned.
