Grand Junction, Colorado, saw a heartwarming turnout as HopeWest, a local nonprofit, held its 16th annual Merry Mint Holiday Show on November 22 and 23, 2025. The event raised vital funds for the organization’s grief support program, helping over 400 kids and teens in Western Colorado cope with loss through counseling, activities, and community resources.
Event Highlights and Community Impact
Attendees packed the venue for two days of festive entertainment, including fashion displays, dances, and live performances. Around 800 people joined in, showing strong local support for youth dealing with grief from losing family members, friends, or other hardships.
The show kicked off the holiday season with a focus on joy amid sorrow. Organizers noted how it reminds everyone that building support networks matters, especially during festive times when grief can feel heavier.
Proceeds from ticket sales, silent auctions, and donations go straight to the program. This year, an anonymous donor gave $5,000, and Alpine Bank added $10,500, pushing the total raised higher than in past years.
How the Program Helps Young People
HopeWest Kids offers free services like one-on-one counseling, group sessions, outdoor retreats, and equine therapy. These tools help children and teens process emotions in healthy ways, turning pain into resilience.
School-based programs reach kids where they spend most of their time, making support accessible. Experts say early intervention prevents long-term issues like anxiety or depression.
In Western Colorado, where rural areas limit access to mental health care, this program fills a key gap. It serves families from Grand Junction to smaller towns like Meeker, expanding through grants and community backing.
The nonprofit relies on events like this to keep services running, as they receive no government funding for grief support. Leaders emphasize that helping one child can uplift an entire family.
Fundraising Success and Donor Stories
This year’s Merry Mint Holiday Show built on a tradition that started small but now draws crowds eager to give back. Past events have raised over $200,000 in a single year, funding everything from art therapy supplies to weekend camps.
Donors shared why they contribute. One local business owner said the program helped his family after a sudden loss, inspiring him to support others.
Here are some key ways donations make a difference:
- Counseling sessions for kids facing multiple losses.
- Equine therapy programs that build trust and emotional bonds.
- Retreats where teens connect with peers in similar situations.
- School partnerships that train teachers to spot grief signs early.
Volunteers played a huge role, with 110 people logging thousands of hours to set up the event. Their efforts ensured smooth operations, from decorating to managing auctions.
Broader Context of Youth Grief Support
Grief among young people has risen in recent years, with studies showing one in 14 children experiences a parent’s death by age 18. In Colorado, mental health challenges for kids spiked after the pandemic, making programs like HopeWest more crucial.
Nationwide trends highlight the need for specialized support. Organizations similar to HopeWest report increased demand for services that blend fun with healing, like adventure-based therapy.
During holidays, experts advise families to create new traditions while honoring memories. HopeWest provides resources such as online guides for navigating festive seasons with grief.
The following table outlines recent growth in HopeWest’s program:
| Year | Kids Served | Funds Raised | Key Additions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 350 | $180,000 | New retreats |
| 2024 | 380 | $195,000 | Equine therapy expansion |
| 2025 | 400+ | Over $200,000 (estimated) | School program outreach |
This data shows steady progress, driven by community events and generous giving.
Looking Ahead and Ways to Get Involved
HopeWest plans more fundraisers in 2026, including galas and community walks, to sustain and grow the program. Leaders aim to reach even more rural areas, where travel barriers often hinder access.
For those touched by the cause, getting involved can mean volunteering, donating, or spreading the word. Simple acts like sharing stories of hope can inspire others to join.
What do you think about supporting youth grief programs in your area? Share this article with friends or leave a comment below to keep the conversation going.
