Urban Peak Company Profile

Background

Mission: Urban Peak ignites the potential in youth to exit homelessness and create self-determined, fulfilled lives.

Vision: All Colorado youth have safe housing, supportive relationships, and the opportunity for self-sufficiency and success.

Founded in 1988, Urban Peak is Denver's sole nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of services for youth aged 12 to 24 experiencing homelessness. The organization addresses the multifaceted challenges these young individuals face, including lack of experience in independent living and developmental preparedness for stability without supportive adults. Urban Peak's services encompass shelter, housing, medical and behavioral healthcare, educational and employment support, and case management, all aimed at guiding youth toward self-sufficiency.

Key Strategic Focus

Urban Peak's strategic objectives include:

Comprehensive Service Delivery: Offering a full spectrum of services tailored to the unique needs of homeless youth, including emergency shelter, transitional housing, healthcare, education, and employment support.

Facility Expansion: In July 2024, Urban Peak inaugurated "The Mothership," a new 136-bed youth campus designed to centralize and enhance service delivery.

Community Engagement: Fostering partnerships with local businesses and organizations to support fundraising and service initiatives.

Advocacy and Awareness: Raising public awareness about youth homelessness and advocating for policies that support vulnerable youth populations.

Financials and Funding

Urban Peak operates as a nonprofit organization, relying on a combination of grants, donations, and fundraising events to finance its operations. In 2023, the organization raised $327,375 from 988 donors, surpassing its $300,000 goal. These funds are allocated toward expanding services, facility improvements, and program development to better serve the youth community.

Pipeline Development

Urban Peak continually develops and enhances its programs to meet the evolving needs of homeless youth. The opening of "The Mothership" in 2024 marked a significant milestone, providing a centralized location for comprehensive services. Future initiatives include expanding transitional housing options and enhancing educational and employment support programs to facilitate long-term self-sufficiency for the youth served.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Urban Peak integrates various technologies to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency. The organization utilizes platforms such as Microsoft for internal operations, YouTube for outreach and awareness campaigns, and Twitter for real-time communication and engagement with the community.

Leadership Team

Christina Carlson, Chief Executive Officer: Appointed in July 2017, Carlson brings extensive experience in nonprofit leadership and a commitment to addressing youth homelessness.

Cassandra Contreras, Director of Operations: Oversees the daily operations of Urban Peak, ensuring the effective delivery of services and programs.

Tamra Schmitt, Director of Finance: Manages the organization's financial health, overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and reporting.

Leadership Changes

In July 2023, staff at Urban Peak voted to unionize, marking a significant development in the organization's internal dynamics. This move reflects the staff's desire for greater involvement in decision-making processes and improved working conditions.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nonprofit sector addressing youth homelessness is characterized by a diverse range of organizations offering various services, including shelter, counseling, education, and employment support. The demand for these services remains high, driven by socio-economic factors contributing to youth homelessness.

Competitor Analysis

Urban Peak operates within a landscape that includes several organizations with similar missions:

Cocoon House: Provides housing and support services to homeless and at-risk youth.

Mary's Place: Offers shelter and resources for women, children, and families experiencing homelessness.

The Ali Forney Center: Focuses on assisting LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness.

Larkin Street Youth Services: Provides comprehensive services to homeless and at-risk youth in San Francisco.

These organizations share a commitment to addressing youth homelessness but may differ in their specific programs, target populations, and geographic focus.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Urban Peak actively engages in partnerships to enhance its services and outreach:

Dose Apparel: Collaborated to provide clothing to youth, promoting a message of love and community support.

Fashion Design Center Denver: Partnered to produce a high-end streetwear line, supporting local production and providing creative opportunities.

Marcella's: Partnered to support youth initiatives through a donation campaign, enhancing fundraising efforts.

Operational Insights

Urban Peak's strategic considerations include:

Service Differentiation: Offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored specifically for youth, distinguishing itself from organizations with a broader focus.