After the tragic loss of her cousin to gun violence, Bri Quintana felt compelled to become a mentor for youth in need. Her cousin had a mentor who provided support during difficult times, and Quintana wanted to do the same for others.
Quintana now dedicates her time to serving as a school and community mentor for Fully Liberated Youth, a nonprofit organization in Denver that offers interventions for teens facing challenges in school or within the juvenile justice system.
The organization, known as FLY, was co-founded by Natalie Baddour out of a mix of grief and hope. FLY focuses on providing comprehensive care and building meaningful relationships with young people at high risk of involvement in the criminal justice or welfare systems.
FLY’s programs extend to metro-area schools, the community, and assisting teens reintegrating after being released from the Colorado Division of Youth Services. The school-based initiatives emphasize prevention in six Denver and Aurora schools, offering consistent support and guidance to students.
Mentors at FLY actively engage with their mentees in various settings, providing individualized assistance, and using restorative practices to address conflicts and repair relationships. The organization also offers community-based intervention services, working closely with youth involved in the juvenile justice or child welfare systems.
Quintana’s dedication to her work is evident in her close relationship with an 18-year-old mentee, offering support through challenges like dropping out of school and spending time in juvenile detention facilities. Together, they navigate court proceedings and probation meetings, with Quintana providing guidance and encouragement.
FLY’s impact extends beyond individual mentorship, aiming to empower youth to pursue their dreams and give back to their communities. The organization’s holistic approach has proven successful, with a significant percentage of participants reporting positive outcomes and improved emotional well-being.
As Quintana continues to support her mentee, she embodies FLY’s commitment to ongoing care and mentorship. Their bond transcends a traditional mentor-mentee relationship, highlighting the transformative power of genuine connections and support.
The work of FLY and individuals like Quintana exemplifies the importance of community support and mentorship for at-risk youth, fostering resilience and empowerment in the face of adversity.
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“We should all be in the trenches and building relationships with the most oppressed marginalized people in the city of Denver,” Baddour said.
Ultimately, FLY’s mission is to provide ongoing support and guidance to youth in need, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the community.
With a focus on long-term impact and holistic care, FLY continues to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of young people, creating a ripple effect of positive change and resilience.
Quintana and her mentee’s story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and community support, showcasing the potential for growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
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