There’s a phenomenon that happens when something is “right.” We’ve all felt it. We make a decision and it feels like the Universe is conspiring in our favor. Things just seem to click. While hard work is certainly involved, everything seems to unfold with ease and grows beyond what we ever imagined. This is exactly what happened with the founding of Better Tomorrow, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting organizations and vulnerable communities in our little valley.
The Birth of Better Tomorrow
Better Tomorrow was born out of the need to empower and uplift vulnerable populations in our community— domestic violence survivors, abused and neglected children, marginalized groups, and those at risk of sexual assault. It started with a simple but crucial mission: to support local organizations already doing great work, but who needed a little help to do even more.
The idea was straightforward: create a central hub that could handle the behind-the-scenes operational work, allowing the various nonprofits to focus on what they do best—providing direct services to those who need them the most.
Better Tomorrow’s Central Role
What makes Better Tomorrow stand out is its ability to handle the logistics and operational management for all these programs, allowing each organization to stay focused on their primary mission. The idea is simple yet brilliant: Better Tomorrow centralizes things like budget management, staffing, training, community outreach, grant writing, and more to give their programs the support they need so they can do the most good in the community. Better Tomorrow makes sure the programs run smoothly, enabling them to meet the evolving needs of the people they serve. The organization is deeply committed to honoring and welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, with a focus on creating a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
Four Powerful Programs, One Vision
If you have ever been a victim of domestic violence seeking help, you were likely directed to Advocates of Routt County. A true pioneer in the community, providing services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other traumatic events. For decades, Advocates has been a safe haven for individuals in crisis, offering shelter, legal advocacy, and emotional support. Through the 24/7 hotline, emergency housing, and long-term counseling services, Advocates helps individuals break free from cycles of abuse and create healthier, safer futures. And don’t forget their work around sexual assault prevention and education, where they help raise awareness and provide resources to reduce incidents of abuse. They’re making a difference every single day.
2. Brighter World Child Advocacy Center
The first Child Advocacy Center in the area, this organization provides a crucial compassionate, trauma-informed approach. They offer a safe, neutral space for forensic interviews and work closely with law enforcement and child protection agencies to investigate abuse allegations. But they don’t stop there—they also bring in a multidisciplinary team of mental health professionals, medical providers, and victim advocates to help families heal and navigate the legal system. They also host free support groups for parents, such as those impacted by the recent closure of Young Tracks daycare. Brighter World isn’t just about intervention; it’s about healing and support from every angle.
At the top of the website for Queer Futures, there is a notice that reads: “If you need to leave the site quickly, press the ESC key three times.” This is a perfect illustration of how members of the Queer community can be targets and need to be vigilant to protect themselves from bigotry. Queer Futures is a safe and inclusive space where individuals of all identities, their families, and allies can find support. The center offers a variety of programs and services, including identity-specific peer support groups, substance use prevention, and workshops on life-saving topics like CPR and Narcan administration. Queer Futures partners with local healthcare providers and youth-focused organizations to improve wellness and inclusivity throughout the region. In essence, they’re creating a strong community where LGBTQIA2S+ individuals can thrive and know they belong.
4. COMMA
This program supports individuals experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma. We’ve all read the articles about patrons being drugged in various local bars and COMMA seeks to prevent that along with other service:
- Confidential Support Services: Offering safety, emotional support, and advocacy for survivors.
- Community Resources: Connecting individuals to legal, mental health, and shelter services for recovery.
- Outreach and Education: Raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault, and promoting healthy relationships.
- Collaboration: Working with local organizations, law enforcement, and healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive support.
- Good Night Out (GNO) Program: Aimed at preventing sexual misconduct in nightlife venues, GNO provides bartender training, safe drink practices, and customer awareness to ensure a safer environment for patrons.
The People Behind Better Tomorrow
Of course, no organization can achieve greatness without passionate individuals behind it. It would be a disservice to name just a few, so I encourage everyone to go to the websites of each organization and see the people dedicated to providing these crucial services. In addition to the directors and board members, there are various community leaders, nonprofit partners and dedicated staff have helped shape the organization’s growth, working together to create a more unified and effective response to issues like domestic violence, child abuse, and community well-being and safety.
What’s Next?
The story of Better Tomorrow is still being written, but the foundation has been laid. With programs that span everything from child advocacy to LGBTQIA2S+ support and sexual assault prevention, Better Tomorrow is creating a more connected, compassionate, and resilient community. It’s the kind of work that makes you feel hopeful—like the universe really is conspiring in our favor.
Written by Madeleine Mason
To hear more about the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra, listen to the Elevating Steamboat podcast featuring Better Tomorrow Executive Director Mark Fitzgerald.
Elevating Steamboat: Stories of Impact and Inspiration is dedicated to the people and organizations working to uplift our community presented by The Carpet Shoppe, where they can elevate your space as the top flooring choice in Steamboat.