Weekly Participant Newsletter
Welcome to CWEE’s Community Connections for the week of August 5, 2026 for program participants.
Programming Information:
CWEE’s Address:
1175 Osage St, Ste 300 Denver, CO 80204
Onsite Office Hours:
Monday through Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
CWEE’s physical office is closed on Fridays, including the resource room.
CWEE’s Educational Pathway Programs: For more information, contact Megan Smith or JJ Bond.
Need to connect with your Program Advisor? Schedule a time to meet in-person at CWEE.
Career Readiness Programming: Our program is a 12-day in-person program that will provide engaging and supportive classes focused on digital literacy, job readiness, and social emotional learning. Contact your Program Advisor if you’d like to learn more!
Reminders & Announcements
Backpacks Available in the CWEE Lobby!
Back-to-school season is here! CWEE has backpacks available for children in the CWEE Lobby. Connect with your Program Advisor for details, then stop by to pick up a backpack for your child while supplies last. We look forward to helping you and your family start the school year off right.
CWEE will be closed on Friday, 8/7.
Timesheet Reminder
Don’t forget! Timesheets are due at the end of each month. You can fill out your timesheet anytime using the link below. If you have any questions, please contact your Program Advisor for support.
Submit Timesheet
Celebrations
We are excited to recognize the hard work and achievements of our participants. Congratulations!
Career Readiness – Completed Week 2:
- Desiree Chapin
- Jah’Vey Woods
- Jaylene Gonzalez
- Miguel Godinez Monsivais
Join Us for a Celebration
We’ll present STAR Awards and share poems and special shoutouts to recognize the great work happening across our CWEE community – and enjoy some lunch! Participants are welcome to write a note to their Program Advisor or share a poem or message to be read during the event. All participants and staff are invited to attend.
When: Thursday, 8/13 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: At CWEE – 3rd Floor
CWEE Happenings
Chase Money Skills Workshop
Are you ready to take control of your credit or better understand your credit/credit score?
Join us for a hands-on Chase Money Skills Workshop focused on understanding and building credit! You’ll leave with real tools that will help you build and understand your credit – plus a backpack to get your child geared up for the school year. In order to receive a backpack, you need to register for the workshop using the link below AND register through Chase’s Registration Link which will be sent out after you register below. Backpack availability is limited and is based on both registrations and attendance for the workshop (backpack slots will not be held). If this sounds like something you’re interested in, please RSVP at this link: Chase’s Money Skills Workshop registration link
When: Thursday, 8/6 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: At CWEE
BONUS: Those who register and attend will have a chance to receive a FREE back-to-school backpack along with a light lunch! You’re welcome to visit our well-stocked Resource Room for groceries!
Resources Workshops: Transportation, Housing, & Food
CWEE is hosting workshops designed to help participants build confidence, strengthen skills, and connect with valuable community resources. Led by Renee Kleck, CWEE’s Social Emotional Learning Facilitator, these sessions will focus on self-advocacy, communication, and self-regulation while exploring topics such as housing resources and transportation options, including navigating public transit and learning about RTD bus passes. Each workshop highlights a different resource area, giving participants the tools and knowledge to access support. All participants are welcome to join! All sessions are 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. with Drop In Support from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m at CWEE. RSVP to rkleck@cwee.org.
Upcoming Dates:
Thursday, 8/13 – Housing options will be discussed
Thursday, 8/27 – Transportation options will be discussed
Thursday, 9/3 – Childcare options will be discussed
Thursday, 9/10 – Housing options will be discussed
Parent Support Group
For Families of Children Receiving Special Education Services:
Do you have a child with an IEP, 504 Plan, or who receives services like Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), or Speech Therapy (ST)? You are not alone.
Join us at CWEE for a welcoming space to:
- Connect with other families who understand your journey
- Share experiences, challenges, and successes
- Learn from one another and access helpful resources
- Build a supportive community
Who is this for? Parents, caregivers, and family members of children receiving special education services.
Where & When: This group will gather on Wednesday, 9/2 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Wellness Suite on CWEE’s 2nd floor, straight ahead when you exit the elevator.
What to expect: A relaxed, judgment-free environment where you can talk, listen, and feel supported. Lunch is provided, and infants may come with their caregiver.
Facilitated by: Renee Kleck, Social Emotional Learning Facilitator at CWEE. Renee brings both professional and personal experience as a former Special Education teacher and as a parent of a child with an IEP. Contact Renee if you have any questions at rkleck@cwee.org.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Come build community with us.
CWEE’s Peer Support Group
Looking for a space to connect? CWEE is hosting a drop-in Peer Support Group for participants facilitated by Renee, CWEE’s Social Emotional Learning Facilitator. This is a confidential and welcoming space to share what’s on your mind, swap resources, and support one another. Come as you are. And yes, there will be pizza! All participants are welcome. Childcare isn’t available, but parents can bring their infants. If you can’t make every session, that’s okay. Drop by the CWEE Wellness Suite on the 2nd floor when you can. Wednesdays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.; Upcoming Dates: Wednesdays, 8/12, 8/19, and 8/26 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Find Support with CWEE Counseling
Did you know that CWEE’s Wellness Team offers FREE individual, family, and couples therapy for current and former participants, including participants who recently transferred back to Denver county?
Our experienced and trauma-informed therapists are available to support you with managing stress, healing from trauma, strengthening relationships, improving communication, and building healthy coping skills. Getting started is easy. Simply click the link below or scan the QR code on the attached flyer to complete a counseling request form, or ask any CWEE staff member for a referral. A member of our Wellness Team will reach out to discuss counseling options and help connect you with the support that best meets your needs.
You can find more information about our counseling services by clicking here to view our flyer. To get started, complete this short form, and we’ll be in touch!
Post Career Readiness Support Labs
These guided labs provide hands-on job search support for participants who have completed Career Kickstart or Career Readiness and are seeking further education and/or employment opportunities. The CWEE Education & Employment team will be available to help with applications, job search strategies, and overcoming barriers. Participants can attend one or multiple sessions based on needs. Tuesday, 8/18 and Wednesday, 8/26 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This Week’s Featured Resources
Aurora Public Schools Back-to-School Kickoff
Aurora Public Schools families are invited to celebrate the start of the school year at the Annual Back-to-School Kickoff on Saturday, 8/1! APS students can receive free backpacks and school supplies while families enjoy food, entertainment, meet school staff, explore district resources, and register new students for school. Low- or no-cost immunizations and vaccinations will also be available. Click below for all the exciting details! Download the flyer
LEARN MORE
Denver Police to Distribute Free Backpacks & Supplies
The Denver Police Department and Denver Police Foundation will distribute more than 2,500 free backpacks and school supplies to students during the Denver Police School Supply Giveaway on Saturday, 8/8. Giveaways will take place at six locations across Denver at various times throughout the day, making it easier for families to access these back-to-school essentials. No registration or qualifications are required, and backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
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Don’t Miss Denver Days Back to School Fest!
Kick off the new school year at the Denver Days Back to School Fest on Saturday, 8/8, a free community celebration for Denver families. Enjoy free backpacks filled with school supplies, vaccinations, dental screenings, haircuts, live entertainment, games, and hands-on activities for all ages. Families can also connect with community organizations and city agencies offering valuable resources and support. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to celebrate the end of summer and help students have a successful school year!
LEARN MORE
Free Live Music at La Alma Live – Across from CWEE!
Celebrate music, culture, and community at La Alma Live, a free outdoor concert series presented by Youth on Record on 8/1 and 8/15, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the La Alma-Lincoln Park Amphitheater. Each evening begins with a DJ set, followed by live performances honoring Denver’s rich artistic heritage through storytelling and cultural exchange. Make it a full day of fun by exploring the restaurants along Santa Fe or cooling off at the La Alma Recreation Center before enjoying this free community celebration with family and friends.
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Build Skills, Earn Credentials, and Explore a Career in Construction
The Colorado Adult Education Coalition is offering an education and training program designed to help high school learners, GED learners, and ESL adult learners build the skills needed to enter construction apprenticeship pathways. Classes begin on 8/11 and will offer online flexibility, construction skills training, and more! Job seekers, career changers, and anyone ready to build a stronger future are encouraged to apply. Registration is open now! Download the flyer
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Back-to-School Resources
The first day of school is just around the corner! Take advantage of free back-to-school events happening throughout the Denver metro area. A variety of community events are offering free backpacks, school supplies, haircuts, clothing, and other essentials to help students start the school year prepared, excited, and confident. Find an event near you:
Career Opportunities at the Frito-Lay Job Application Fair
Participants are invited to attend the Frito-Lay Job Application Fair on Thursday, 8/6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Representatives will be hiring for Core and GES Warehouse positions, offering opportunities to join a fast-paced team with responsibilities including warehouse operations, inventory management, and equipment operation. The application process takes approximately 20–35 minutes, making this a great opportunity for individuals seeking stable employment with a global company. Be sure to stop by and learn more about available positions and how to apply.
LEARN MORE
Keep Your Bike Rolling with a Free Tune-Up
Bring your bike to the Ford-Warren Branch Library on Saturday, 8/8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a free Bikes Together Bike Tune-Up. Volunteer bike mechanics will provide free 10-minute tune-ups on a first-come, first-served basis while teaching basic bicycle maintenance skills to help riders keep their bikes in great condition. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just getting started, this is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and get your bike ready for the road.
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Mobile Food Markets
We Don’t Waste’s Mobile Food Market brings healthy, nutritious food right to your community! Stop by for FREE fruits, veggies, lean protein, dairy, and more. Everyone is welcome! Be sure to download the Plentiful app here, create a profile, and search for “WDW” to register. Pre-register to help speed up check-in so you can grab your groceries faster! Or text WDW to 726879. Find dates and locations here.
8/7 National Western Center, 5115 Race Ct, Denver
8/11 La Alma Rec Center, 1325 W 11th Ave, Denver (across from CWEE!)
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Free English Classes with Free Child Care Available
MSU Denver’s Family Literacy Program is now enrolling new students for its Fall 2026 semester. Participants can attend free, in-person English (ESL) classes offered at multiple locations in Westminster and Commerce City. Families with children ages 1–5 can also take advantage of a free preschool program while they attend class. Registration takes place 8/17–8/20 (depending on location), followed by required placement testing the week of 8/24, with classes starting the week of 8/31. Download the flyer
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Just for Kids
Enjoy Music, Fun, and Family Time at Wednesday Kids Korner
Families are invited to Kids Korner on Wednesday, 8/12 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Stanley Marketplace in Aurora for a free morning of music and interactive fun. Featuring Farmer Dave and Animal Farm, this lively performance will have children and adults singing, dancing, and laughing together through engaging songs that celebrate community, kindness, creativity, and the world around us. Join the fun in the common area and enjoy a memorable family outing that’s sure to delight all ages.
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Get Creative at Free Maker Mornings: Chalk Exploration
Families with young children are invited to Maker Mornings: Chalk Exploration on Saturday, 8/8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Clyfford Still Museum. Designed for children ages 15 months to 8 years, this free, drop-in program encourages creativity and self-expression through open-ended chalk art activities, with siblings of all ages welcome. No registration is required, and families are invited to explore the museum afterward, where admission is always free for children ages 17 and under.
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Need more support?
Find additional food, clothing, and community resources on our Community Resources page.
You can always contact your CWEE Program Advisor.
Call 2-1-1 at any time to talk to someone who can connect you to more resources.
CWEE Contact Information
Click here for a list of departments at CWEE, phone numbers, and email addresses.