Non-Profit Organizations in Colorado Springs, CO

Founded in 1990 by Regina Dipadova during Colorado Springs' most challenging era for LGBTQ acceptance, Inside Out Youth Services has grown into a vital 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to building access, equity, and power with LGBTQIA2+ young people throughout the Pikes Peak region. The organization's mission centers on creating wholeness—inside and out—through leadership development, advocacy, community-building, education, and peer support. Operating from its Colorado Springs, CO location, Inside Out serves as a safe, affirming space where LGBTQIA2+ youth and their allies can connect, grow, and develop the resilience needed to thrive. The organization's core values of intersectionality, nourishment, self-expression, integrity, engagement, openness, and transformation guide all work with young people. Inside Out recognizes that LGBTQIA2+ youth in the Colorado Springs area face elevated risks for substance abuse, school dropout, physical and sexual abuse, homelessness, and suicide—challenges the organization actively works to address through comprehensive support. In 2023-2024, Inside Out served hundreds of young people through thousands of program visits, provided individual therapy sessions, and reached nearly 25,000 young people through violence prevention and policy advocacy efforts. The organization has earned recognition including Prism Awards, Mental Health and Wellness honors, and community proclamations for its commitment to youth empowerment. Inside Out continues expanding its vision of a Colorado Springs community where all LGBTQIA2+ young people feel safe, welcomed, and empowered to live authentically.

Founded in 1994 by courageous parents determined to protect their gay and lesbian children, PFLAG Colorado Springs emerged during a pivotal moment in local history when extreme ideology threatened constitutional protections. These founding members organized in discreet locations, spoke out publicly, and worked tirelessly to change hearts and minds despite facing potential reprisals from employers, family, and community members. Today, PFLAG Colorado Springs continues their legacy of love-driven advocacy, building on a foundation of families united with LGBTQ+ people and allies who support one another. As part of PFLAG National—the first and largest organization serving LGBTQ+ people and their families since 1973—the Colorado Springs chapter strives to create an equitable, inclusive society where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, empowered, and loved. The organization's mission centers on creating a caring, just, and affirming world while educating communities to speak up as advocates until all hearts and minds respect, value, and affirm LGBTQ+ people. PFLAG Colorado Springs welcomes parents, family members, friends, and LGBTQ+ individuals seeking compassionate community and reliable guidance. Whether you're navigating coming out, facing challenges in your personal or professional life, or simply seeking acceptance and connection, you'll find heartfelt support from people who understand your journey. The organization remains committed to advocating for equality for all, with special attention to supporting transgender and gender-diverse communities and their families throughout Colorado Springs.

Founded on March 18, 1998, the Japan-America Society of Southern Colorado (JASSC) has served as a vital bridge between Colorado Springs, CO and Japan for over two decades. As a nonprofit educational and cultural organization, JASSC is built on the vision of enriching Southern Colorado with endless opportunities to engage with Japanese culture while fostering genuine relationships between local citizens and people from Japan. At its heart, JASSC is a community-driven organization where members connect through shared interests in Japanese language, cuisine, arts, and traditions. The society brings people together through authentic cultural experiences—from traditional celebrations like Mochitsuki and Children's Day to informal gatherings such as Conversation Over Cookies. These events create spaces where newcomers and longtime enthusiasts alike can build friendships, learn together, and celebrate the unique bond between two nations. What sets JASSC apart is its grassroots approach to cultural exchange. The organization is led by a dedicated board of directors and supported by community volunteers who believe in the power of cultural understanding. Through student scholarships, language resources, and sister city connections, JASSC empowers residents of Southern Colorado to develop meaningful relationships with Japanese culture and people. For anyone in the Colorado Springs community seeking authentic cultural engagement and a welcoming group of like-minded individuals, JASSC offers a genuine home for cross-cultural friendship and learning.

Serving the Filipino-American community in Colorado Springs, Colorado, the Filipino-American Community of Southern Colorado represents over thirty years of dedicated service rooted in cultural pride and mutual support. Founded on January 1, 1993, by Chairman Mr. Ron Rolando Nono in response to community interest, FACSC has grown from a grassroots initiative into a respected non-profit organization guided by principles of unity and friendship. The organization's mission centers on creating an improved living atmosphere through interpersonal social commitment, charity, civic engagement, advocacy, and community empowerment. What distinguishes FACSC is its volunteer-powered model where officers and committee members generously donate their time without compensation, and the organization operates entirely through donations and member-organized fundraising events. This community-centered approach has enabled FACSC to invest significantly in youth development, education, and charitable causes both locally and internationally. The organization values giving back through thousands of community service hours and has become an ambassador for education and women's empowerment in Southern Colorado. FACSC's annual pageants, community events, and mentorship programs create spaces where Filipino culture thrives while strengthening bonds among members. With dedicated ambassadors providing consulate outreach, veterans support, and mental health assistance, FACSC embodies a holistic commitment to the welfare and well-being of the Filipino-American community in Colorado Springs and beyond.