Sept. 10-19 is Welcoming Week, a national celebration that brings neighbors of all backgrounds together to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

Welcoming Week

In Boulder, welcoming means creating a community where everyone can find a sense of belonging, connect with neighbors, access resources and participate fully in community life.

Earlier this year, Boulder became a Welcoming America 3-star Certified Welcoming City, recognizing the community's ongoing commitment to inclusion and belonging. The organization -- and Certified Welcoming Partners, like Boulder -- believe that al people, including immigrations, are valued contributors and vital to the success of our communities and shared future.

This week, we're highlighting several of the community organizations, programs and partnerships that help make Boulder a more welcoming community -- plus ways to get involved and show your support.

Connecting Through Language

Intercambio helps adult English learners build skills, confidents and connections in their community. This Welcoming Week, Intercambio is inviting community members to become online volunteer English teachers.

No teaching experience or second language is required. Volunteers receive training, curriculum and ongoing support. Volunteers connect online with an adult English learner and commit approximately three to four hours per week, including preparation, for six months.

Intercambio's next Volunteer Training is Sept. 19.

Learn more and sign up to volunteer

Building Trust Through Community Outreach

The Boulder Police Department's Latina/Latino Liaison Officer program supports stronger relationships between the department and Spanish-speaking and immigrant communities.

Five officers serve as bilingual and bicultural liaisons, working to improve services through community outreach and collaboration. They participate in events, such as National Night Out and cultural gatherings at San Juan del Centro, and respond to requests for assistance from community members.

The liaison officers also work with community and advocacy groups to build relationships and trust. Contact information for the officers is available on the Boulder Police Department's website.

Celebrating Culture Through Art, Science and Education

Luna Cultura is a bicultural, woman-owned organization that builds community through art, science and culture. The events are bilingual and open to everyone.

Upcoming programs include:

  • Sept. 15 and 17: HiSET/GED test preparation classes
  • Sept. 18 and 19: Serie: Fortalecimiento Comunitario y Educación Familiar (CRAFT), an online family education and community strengthening series. Register online.
  • Sept. 19: Hispanic Heritage Month: Papel Amate with Luna Cultura / Mes de la Herencia Hispana: Papel Amate con Luna Cultura.

Visit Luna Cultura's events calendar for more information and additional programs.

Preserving Culture and Strengthening Community

Nepali Ghar is a community nonprofit dedicated to preserving Nepali culture and serving families throughout the Denver metro and Boulder areas.

The organization will host a cultural celebration featuring musical and cultural performances on:

  • Date: Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
  • Time: 5–9 p.m.
  • Location: 4001 W. 76th Avenue, Westminster, CO 80030

More information is available on the Nepali Ghar Facebook page.

Expanding Access to Resources and Education

Emergency Family Assistance Association (EFAA) is a longtime Boulder community partner that connects neighbors with resources and opportunities to strengthen their financial wellbeing.

Through its Economic Empowerment Program, EFAA offers practical tools, education and resources focused on financial stability. During Welcoming Week, EFAA will offer basic computer and financial health courses in both English and Spanish. These courses help community members build digital skills, strengthen financial knowledge and work toward greater stability.

Since 2021, nearly 500 participants have graduated from 41 financial health courses.

Community members can support EFAA's Economic Empowerment Program by making a donation.

Welcoming is a Community Effort

While this week provides an opportunity to pause, reflect, and plan for the next phase of welcoming work in Boulder, our community prioritizes a spirit of welcoming year-round. Welcoming is a core part of who we are and always aspire to be, and Boulder will continue to choose connection, courage, and love over division, fear, and hate.  

Creating a welcoming community takes collaboration. Across Boulder, community organizations, city programs and community are creating opportunities for people to connect, participate and build a stronger sense of belonging.

This Welcoming Week, learn more about the organizations and programs serving our community—and find an opportunity to get involved.

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