LAUNCH Together (closed)

In 2015, a unique partnership consisting of eight Colorado Foundations, Early Milestones Colorado, and the Butler Insitute, came together to improve early childhood mental health systems in the state. Built on the federal Project LAUNCH framework (a national effort of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), LAUNCH Together was an initiative designed to improve the social/emotional and mental health outcomes of children and their families through efforts at both the local and state levels. The initiative focused on promotion and prevention strategies with a goal of mitigating the need for clinical interventions and treatments for many children at risk of social-emotional delays or issues. In addition, through intention systems building, the initiative sought to mitigate mental health disparities among vulnerable populations. 

Over the course of nearly six years, the project targeted efforts in five communities: Chaffee County, Fremont County, Jefferson County, Pueblo County, and SW Denver. The project demonstrated success that was built upon a strong foundation of collaboration, as noted in the final evaluation report: 

• Building on prior success. LAUNCH Together expanded on previous Project LAUNCH work at the state level and in Weld and Adams counties. The Initiative created a Colorado-specific model by leveraging federal tools, processes, experts, and community champions. 

• Leveraging cross-sector partnerships. Funding partners with different priority areas successfully brought an idea to implementation through collaboration and a shared vision. The Initiative’s cross-sector approach improved communication and understanding of services and systems.  

• Coordinating local resources to meet immediate needs. Stronger relationships between local agencies, organizations, and individuals improved system coordination. During the pandemic, communities were better able to quickly respond to family needs.  

• Increasing awareness of ECMH. LAUNCH Together amplified the importance of ECMH and its impact on school readiness, health and education outcomes, and long-term success. Communities also better understand the negative impacts of trauma, toxic stress, and adverse childhood experiences. 

• Building state-level momentum. More social-emotional supports are now infused into