Denver, CO — The Colorado General Assembly has formally passed House Joint Resolution 26-1019, recognizing caregiving youth statewide and designating February 20, 2026, as Caregiving Youth Day in Colorado.
The joint resolution, approved by both chambers, affirms that youth caregivers are an underrecognized and underserved population and encourages educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to increase awareness, identification, and appropriate support Caregiving youth support loved ones who are aging, chronically ill, disabled, or facing serious health challenges, frequently without formal identification or support within existing systems.
Colorado data show that:
• 20.4% of middle school students
• 12.5% of high school students report caregiving responsibilities at home, with rates as high as 31% in some districts.
The resolution affirms that youth in caregiving roles constitute a distinct and underserved population and encourages greater awareness among educators, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders.
“Caregiving youth are present in communities across Colorado, yet too often remain invisible,” said Senator Iman Jodeh. “This resolution affirms that their contributions matter and that awareness is the first step toward responsible support.”
“This recognition sends a powerful message to caregiving youth across Colorado: you are not invisible,” said Nadine Roberts Cornish, Founder of the Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth. “When we acknowledge their responsibilities, we create space for schools, healthcare providers, and communities to respond thoughtfully and responsibly.”
Photos from the event are available upon request.
Media Contact:
Lori Goodwine
PR & Communications Strategist
Colorado Alliance for Caregiving Youth
[email protected]
