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Join young people from across the Rocky Mountains as they improve climate resilience in their communities.

"If someone told me that my 6th graders would put together a civic action proposal to solve a community flooding issue ... I don't think I would have believed it to be possible. Your six-step method made it so easy and the kids really engaged and found it fun and meaningful!"

About the RISE Challenge Colorado

Educator Role

  • Guide students in creating positive change around local natural hazards
  • Collaborate with community members and experts
  • Become eligible to receive funding to support project implementation

Student Role

  • Research natural hazards in their community 
  • Engage with experts and community stakeholders
  • Ask for real, sustainable change from people in power
  • Share their action stories at the RISE Challenge Summit

  • Free PD (you read that right)

    Free professional development in the Earth Force Process, an award-winning and easy to use approach to Environmental Action Civics.

  • Student Project Funding

    Funding up to $1000 in prize money and additional implementation supplies available

  • Exclusive Resources

    Access to high-quality supporting materials and resources

  • A Network of Support

    Access to a network of community experts & guest speakers, plus free ongoing support from Earth Force's friendly & knowledgeable staff

Meet your Earth Force Coach!

Taylor Ruffin manages the RISE Challenge in Colorado. His background is in environmental education, natural resource management, and youth development. He is dedicated to helping others foster a connection to their community and nature. During free time, Taylor enjoys rock climbing and cooking for his family.

Click here to meet with Taylor

Important Dates

November 20, 2024 or March 12, 2025

Pitch Your Project

Deadlines to submit student action plans for feedback and implementation approval. Groups will provide their goals, strategies and budget for an action project that improves their community's resilience against natural hazards. All groups that submit action plans for approval are eligible for implementation support up to $1,000.

April 16, 2025

Action Stories Deadline

Five minute video action story presentations are judged by a panel of community experts virtually and recorded to be shown at the finals. Stories are judged on innovation, comprehensive scope & research, stakeholder communication, budget, visuals, and overall community impact of the action. 10 finalists will be selected and presented at the RISE Summit during Environmental Action Civics Week.

April 30, 2025

Colorado RISE Summit and Student Showcase

The top 10 Environmental Civic Action Stories are announced for the final competition for prize money ranging from $300 to $1,000. Student groups take part in a reflection panel.

View the Action Project Showcase

Click here to view past projects and learn more about the incredible solutions young people create to improve their community's resilience to natural hazards. 

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