Spotlight on... Rae Laser, Manager of Community Outreach
First off tell me about how you got involved in the sexual health field and what brought you to Colorado Youth Matter…
Well, I’ve worked with and for youth since I was a youth from after-school programs for at-risk kids and summer camps. I landed at a homeless teen center in Salt Lake City and the misinformation they had about sex, pregnancy and STI’s was scary. When I moved to Denver I was looking for an organization where I could mix my passion for youth leadership development and the importance of sexual health knowledge together and Colorado Youth Matter was the perfect fit.
What 3-5 words would you use to describe your personality?
Direct, honest, humorous, talkative and outgoing
What is your favorite part of your job as the Manager of Community Outreach?
I love all the amazing people that work in Colorado for and with young people. I’ve recently been very active in the Colorado Youth Link group that has just popped up because of how many organizations in Colorado have a youth council. Lauren from One Colorado, Joey from the Mayor’s Youth Commission and Audra from CDPHE, to name only a few, have all been inspirational to me in regards to authentic youth voice and models of great youth adult partnerships.
What is your favorite thing to do during the winter season?
I love eating ice cream in the winter. I know it’s weird, but I love it. Beyond that I’m excited to go snow shoeing with Betty White, my 5 month old Samoyed puppy, she is made for the snow!
In addition to your community outreach work, you also coordinate the CREATE Youth Council and Youth Action Day in your role. What are some exciting things coming up with the Council?
Youth Action Day will be held on Monday, March 9th 2015 and is shaping up to be an amazing day! With over half of the CREATE Council returning this year, the event is going to be so empowering for young people in Colorado. Advocates for Youth, one of our national partners will also be at Youth Action Day and help out with the day's trainings. We are expecting many youth who have attended in the past to return, as well as attract new participants through our connections with Colorado Youth Link and 9to25. I can’t wait! Did I mention it’s on Monday, March 9th? Save the date!
What are you looking forward to most in the upcoming months, both professionally and personally?
I’m looking forward to taking on this new role as the Manager for Community Outreach in shaping the Colorado Youth Matter’s social media presence as well as reconvening The Alliance. Personally my twin brother has convinced me to sign up for a half marathon in March! Eek! I’ve started training and am a little nervous. It’s lucky that I will have some running buddies with Becca, Stefanie and Holly here at CYM…all of whom have signed up for their own races! Self-care for the win!