Daily Inspiration: Meet Taylor Gordon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Gordon

Taylor, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My career in education started at a young age. From babysitting and nannying for several families to spending four years as a preschool teacher, I always knew I was passionate about working with youth. A friend once recommended that I apply for an afterschool program director position in a school district, and it was a dream come true. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with elementary-aged youth, especially in the context of afterschool time.

Afterschool quickly became something I fell in love with. It’s such a unique and transformative space. Unlike the structure of the school day, afterschool provides kids with opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and engage in activities that build their confidence. I got to create meaningful relationships with youth, witness their growth firsthand, and offer them quality programs that supported their academic, social, and emotional development. Afterschool gave them a place to be themselves, build friendships, and discover their potential in ways that traditional classrooms sometimes couldn’t. The impact wasn’t just on the kids—it extended to their families and the broader community, making afterschool an essential part of their success.

Fast forward to today, I’m now the Communications and Events Manager for the Colorado Afterschool Partnership (CAP). I’m incredibly proud to work for an organization that strengthens Out-of-School Time across the state. Our mission resonates deeply with me, and I love being able to support programs and providers in impactful ways. From connecting them with resources to hosting a yearly conference that celebrates their work, I feel honored to play a role in advocating for the field and uplifting the incredible contributions of OST professionals.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to becoming the Communications and Events Manager at the Colorado Afterschool Partnership wasn’t a straight path, but it’s one I’m deeply grateful for. My journey here wouldn’t have been possible without the many experiences and challenges I faced along the way.

In 2020, during the pandemic, I made the difficult decision to step away from my work in afterschool to focus on raising my family and exploring a new industry. While this time brought me invaluable experiences and personal growth, a part of me missed the work I had fallen in love with—the ability to connect with youth, provide meaningful opportunities, and be a part of something bigger than myself. It was hard to leave a field I was so passionate about, but I believe that everything happens for a reason.

Stepping away and navigating those challenges gave me a fresh perspective on the value of afterschool programs and strengthened my commitment to the field. It also deepened my appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of those working in Out-of-School Time, especially during such uncertain times.

Looking back, every stop along the way—every challenge, pivot, and redirection—has been essential in shaping who I am today and the work I now get to do. I’m so grateful for those experiences because they prepared me for this role in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Now, as the Communications and Events Manager at CAP, I’m able to combine my passion for afterschool with the skills and lessons I’ve gained to support and advocate for programs across Colorado. It feels like coming full circle, and I couldn’t be more honored to be part of this incredible mission.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At the Colorado Afterschool Partnership, our work is rooted in supporting, strengthening, and advocating for Out-of-School Time (OST) programs across the state. Established in 2014 with the support of a grant from The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, CAP is one of the fifty statewide afterschool networks that comprise the National Network of Statewide Afterschool Networks. Our mission is to strengthen out-of-school-time programs in Colorado through advocacy for sustainable funding and by supporting afterschool providers with professional development, resources, and recognition.

As the Communications and Events Manager, I have the privilege of connecting Out-of-School Time (OST) providers with resources, research, and one another to amplify their impact on youth and communities. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is organizing our annual conference in partnership with the Colorado Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Team. This conference is a cornerstone of our work, designed to celebrate and equip OST professionals with high-quality professional development opportunities.

This year, we achieved a significant milestone with Governor Jared Polis joining us to deliver opening remarks. His participation underscored the importance of afterschool and summer programs, elevating the visibility of OST programs and their essential role in supporting Colorado’s youth. Having such high-level recognition was a powerful reminder of how vital this work is—not just for the children and families it serves but for the state as a whole.

CAP is known for creating collaborative spaces where providers can learn, grow, and feel validated in their roles. We specialize in bridging the gap between policy and practice, advocating for state and federal support, and ensuring that the OST field is seen as a vital part of youth development. Together, we’re building a state where every child has access to transformative OST opportunities, and I’m honored to play a part in making that vision a reality.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I would be remiss not to highlight the incredible people who have played a key role in my success and the success of the Colorado Afterschool Partnership. First and foremost, my amazing Executive Director, Kelly Streck. She is a fearless leader, constantly coming up with innovative ideas and pushing us to think outside the box. Kelly has been a tireless supporter of the OST field, and her vision and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the work we do at CAP.

Along with Kelly, our Board Members and Action Team Volunteers deserve significant credit. As a small team, their dedication and support are critical to everything we accomplish. They help steer the direction of our work, provide valuable insights, and help ensure we are always working toward the best outcomes for the OST field.

On a personal note, I also owe a great deal to Stephanie Hansen and Mandi Browning, who were my supervisors when I was an OST director. They mentored me, believed in me, and helped shape my path into my current role. If it weren’t for their guidance and encouragement, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to experience the OST world firsthand, and I would not be in the position I am today. Their support opened my eyes to the impact OST programs have on youth and the importance of this work.

In short, it really does take a village, and I’m incredibly grateful to all the mentors, teammates, and supporters who have been part of my journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.coloradoafterschoolpartnership.org/
• Instagram: @coafterschool
• Facebook: COAfterschool
• LinkedIn: Colorado Afterschool Partnership