Afterschool & Summer Enrichment for All
Request for Proposals
We envision a Colorado where afterschool and summer enrichment opportunities are available to all children. This is because we know these experiences aren’t nice to have – they are a must have.
2026 Request for Proposals
The Challenge
Research and kids tell us the same thing: The opportunity to discover things we are passionate about through sports, arts, music and more, is essential to growing up. And, the benefits span academic achievement and wellbeing. Young people feel less stress, are more likely to build relationships with trusted adults and peers, and feel more connected to their community.
Families across income levels value and invest in their children’s development, but opportunities for enrichment are not equally accessible. That’s why we at Gary incubated and supported the launch of My Spark Denver. My Spark Denver equipped over 4,000 free and reduced price lunch eligible middle school students with $1,000 to spend on the afterschool and summer learning and enrichment programs of their choosing. Thanks to initial and continuing investments from the City of Denver, as well as Denver Public Schools and the leadership of the DPS Foundation, Denver has become a leader in working towards ensuring all kids have transformational afterschool and summer experiences.
RFP Overview
This RFP seeks local systems and their partners who want to explore programming similar to My Spark and to design a future where access is universal, funding is sustainable and all kids have opportunities to find their spark.
“When I’m playing basketball, all my worries melt away.”
My Spark Denver Participant
Ask Questions
INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR
We would love to connect to answer your questions about this RFP. Please email our team or join our informational webinar to ask questions.
January 20, 2026
10-11 am (MT)
Read More About My Spark
Univision: My Spark Denver Reunión Municipal Para Niños
El alcalde Mike Johnston, Gary Community Ventures y Mile High United Way anuncian $4 millones de inversión público-privada en programas extraescolares.
Denver middle schoolers can get $1,000 for extracurriculars
Middle school students in Denver Public Schools who qualify for free and reduced-price lunch are eligible to apply for debit cards loaded with $1,000 for sports, art and music activities
My Spark gives Denver kids $1,000 for afterschool activities
My Spark Denver is billed as a first-of-its-kind program in the country, aiming to help low-income students.
More Than Just A Game: The Power of Purpose For All Kids
What if we looked beyond measuring problems associated with youth mental health? What if we spoke about youth as they see themselves — whole and capable? This shift could transform how we provide services, funding, programs & policies.
Our Catalytic Grantmaking Strategy
Grants from Gary expand the impact of our public, nonprofit and private partners through strategic funding designed to foster long-term, sustainable change, specifically for families in Adams, Arapahoe, Denver and Jefferson counties.