It was the summer of 2016 and I had just turned 30 years old. The vision of Denver Gap Year was building in my heart and I was considering whether I should embark on the difficult journey of creating something new again. I had just helped launch a gap year in Texas and I knew the rewards and hardships of the process. By the fall I couldn’t deny the deep desire to make a tangible difference in this next generation and to use all I had learned over the past 12 years to help others.
A lot has happened in the three years since I made that decision. We received our 501c3 nonprofit status while forming a diverse and experienced board of directors. Multiple partnerships were developed with churches and nonprofits in the Denver area. Months were spent developing a branding guide and a website to be proud of. (Shout out to Rhema Design) 5 official staff members have joined the team. And recruiting relationships across the country have been explored and developed.
The process of getting Denver Gap Year off the ground has taught me a lot about patience, determination and trusting God. But I’ve also been blown away by the generosity and support of the people in my life. People ranging from strangers to close friends and family members have given of their finances, time and talent to help this dream become reality. Staff members have moved their life to Denver and sacrificed a lot to work on this program.
It was a hard decision to delay the start of the program until 2020. Looking beyond my eagerness to start though, I felt it would be healthier for the staff, program and participants if we waited. This next year will allow us more time to fine tune different aspects of the program, give all the staff time to settle into Denver, better prepare financially and build upon recruiting relationships of the past few years.
I feel confident in the future of Denver Gap Year for these reasons. The prompting, provision and goodness of God in regards to this dream. The patience and persistence in crafting something that will last a long time. An idea whose time has come. And the quality of the people working on this with me.
We are excited to see our first batch of participants in the Fall of 2020! Please pass along our website and application form to any high school senior you think might be interested.
Founder and Director
Nate Evans