For the next issue of the EmpowerGen Column, I invited Rachel DeStigter to write an article about something she’s passionate about. Rachel is a young leader and dedicated international studies graduate who is seeking to earn a Ph.D. in sociology and perform innovative research on the sociology of neurodiversity. Rachel worked closely with me at Dream Tank as a NextGen Innovation Fellow in our Development department in 2021.   I am delighted to publish Rachel’s article this week.  Enjoy! With great hope and love for water, Heidi ************* “Why You Should Be Thinking More About... Read More

I grew up surrounded by art.  My father was born in Italy and was inspired by nature to become an artist. Growing up in New Jersey surrounded by a large Italian family and guided by a strong German mother, I would sit and paint with him as he meditated on the inspiration coming to him. Through all of the up and down times we went through, we could always come back to art and immerse ourselves in imagination and creativity.  It is one of the things that kept me grounded as a child. Art can be an expression of the beauty of life. Young people today are challenged to feel connected to this as the... Read More

Introduction: Welcome back to the eighth week of our EmpowerGen column! As we continue our journey, we shift our focus to a pressing issue affecting youth in both Boulder and Baja: mental health. The rise in suicide rates, school shootings, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the urgency to address mental health challenges among young individuals. In this article, we will explore the transformative potential of connecting youth to nature and purpose, backed by studies and articles that showcase the healing power of these experiences.  Read last week’s EmpowerGen Article... Read More

In our exploration of the transformative realm that is Playa Puertecito and our ‘Boulder to Baja’ adventures, we have encountered remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of youth empowerment. This week, we shine a spotlight on Jillian Runkle, a beacon of inspiration who has been igniting change via PeaceJam and other projects since the tender age of nine. Her unique perspective on the diverse spaces and worlds that intertwine within and beyond Playa Puertecito unveils profound insights and a passion for creating a world where many worlds fit. If you are interested in reading last... Read More

Last week, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Playa Puertecito, a place where the magnificence of turquoise waters merges with the enchantment of nature. Read last week’s article written on the land here.  As we continue to explore the profound connections and transformative experiences that unfold in this remarkable sanctuary, we are reminded of the immense power of youth empowerment and the remarkable stories that emerge from young changemakers. Ulysses Diaz, a volunteer and local community builder, in his contemplation of our purpose in this beautiful place, prompted us to... Read More

Meet Heidi Cuppari and her daughter, Summer Cuppari Gould, co-authors of the groundbreaking EmpowerGen column. Heidi and Summer have lived in Boulder for 17 years and both adore the community here. Summer will be attending the Leeds School of Business at CU Boulder, where she will continue to fuel her passion for entrepreneurship and social impact.  Together, they are championing the voices of youth, sparking creativity, and driving meaningful change in our community.  Read More