Grand Junction, Colorado, saw community spirit shine as HopeWest hosted its 16th annual Merry Mint Holiday Show on November 22 and 23, 2025. The event raised vital funds for the nonprofit’s grief support program that helps hundreds of kids and teens cope with loss each year.
This fundraiser drew around 800 attendees and featured silent auctions, performances, and heartfelt stories. Organizers aimed to blend holiday joy with support for youth facing grief from family deaths, friend losses, or other traumas.
Event Draws Strong Community Turnout
The two-day show at a local venue in Grand Junction brought together families, volunteers, and supporters. Attendees enjoyed live music, festive decorations, and activities that highlighted the importance of grief support during the holidays.
HopeWest leaders noted the event’s timing at the start of the season helps remind people that joy and sorrow can coexist. One anonymous donor gave $5,000, while Alpine Bank added $10,500 to the total raised.
Over 110 volunteers contributed thousands of hours to make the show possible. Their efforts ensured smooth operations, from setup to guest interactions.
The fundraiser included a silent auction with items donated by local businesses. Proceeds go directly to expanding grief services across Western Colorado.
How the Program Helps Young People
HopeWest’s kids and teens grief support program serves more than 400 youth annually. It offers counseling, outdoor retreats, equine therapy, and school-based sessions to build coping skills.
Experts say early grief support prevents long-term issues like anxiety or depression in children. The program adapts to various loss types, whether from illness, accidents, or other causes.
Families report positive changes, with kids finding new ways to express emotions. One parent shared how equine therapy helped their child open up after losing a sibling.
The initiative covers areas from Grand Junction to smaller towns like Meeker. Recent expansions, funded by grants and events like this, reach more remote communities.
Fundraising Impact and Donor Stories
All ticket sales, auction bids, and donations support the program’s growth. This year’s event continues a tradition that has raised over $200,000 in past years, based on historical data from similar fundraisers.
Key contributions included:
- Anonymous gift of $5,000 for immediate program needs
- Alpine Bank’s $10,500 donation to fund new retreats
- Community bids in the silent auction that exceeded expectations
These funds help cover costs for free services, as HopeWest relies on philanthropy. Leaders emphasize that every dollar creates lasting impact for grieving families.
In a related effort, HopeWest recently provided holiday grief guidance resources online. This ties into broader trends where nonprofits address seasonal mental health challenges.
Challenges in Youth Grief Support
Grief affects one in 14 children by age 18, according to national studies from groups like the National Alliance for Children’s Grief. In Western Colorado, rural isolation adds barriers to access.
HopeWest tackles this with mobile programs and partnerships with schools. However, rising demand from events like natural disasters or community losses strains resources.
A table of key statistics shows the scope:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Youth Served Yearly | Over 400 |
| Program Types | Counseling, retreats, therapy |
| Event Attendance | About 800 |
| Volunteer Hours | Thousands |
This data underscores the need for ongoing funding. Leaders call for more awareness to connect families with help.
Experts note that unaddressed grief can lead to school dropout rates increasing by 20 percent in affected youth. HopeWest’s approach focuses on building resilience through fun, supportive activities.
Looking Ahead for HopeWest
Future plans include more retreats and online resources to reach tech-savvy teens. The organization aims to partner with other nonprofits for broader impact.
With holidays approaching, HopeWest encourages community involvement in similar events. This aligns with national pushes for mental health funding, especially post-pandemic.
Share your thoughts on community fundraisers or personal stories in the comments below. If this article moved you, pass it along to friends who care about youth support.
