Promoting Access and Opportunity Through DPP’s Partnership with Denver Pride

Denver Preschool Program (DPP) believes in making sure all kids have access to high-quality preschool throughout Denver. To connect with Denver families throughout the city, DPP collaborates with community partners that educate and inspire. For the past several years, DPP has teamed up with Denver Pride (also known as Denver PrideFest) by hosting a celebrity book reading and offering information for Denver families about how to lower their preschool costs. Located in the Family Area of Denver PrideFest, DPP connects with families throughout the two-day event. 

“Being at Denver PrideFest is part of DPP’s approach to being inclusive,” said Christine Sakoulas, who helps organize DPP’s outreach events. “We want to make sure we connect with as many communities as possible and reinforce our message that DPP is for everyone.” 

Partnering for All Denver Families

Denver Pride is a free annual event put on by The Center on Colfax, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides year-round programs and services for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community. This year’s Denver Pride will be held on June 28 and 29, 2025 at Civic Center Park. June is recognized as Pride Month throughout the United States to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community, and Denver Pride is one of several events throughout Colorado every year.  

“One of the most exciting parts of Denver Pride is the allies that have grown with the event,” said Carol Hiller, Denver Pride Operations Manager, who has been involved with the event for 34 years. “DPP has partnered with the event for years, and it’s a testament to how strong our relationship is. We have an amazing community that is so passionate, loving, kind, and generous.” 

This year’s Denver Pride Family Area will feature several welcoming spaces for preschool children, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s Curiosity Cruiser, book giveaways, a DPP booth, interactive displays, a drag queen story time, Denver Public Library story times and crafts, and the Mile High Freedom band. 

“DPP has one of the most friendly areas for families with little ones,” said Sheila Romero, a teacher who has volunteered to oversee the Family Area for several years. “They bring in a special media person for the reading and are so supportive of all families.” 

DPP’s celebrity reader has not yet been confirmed but is sure to be an exciting draw for children and families. 

• DPP Celebrity Book Reading at Denver Pride
• Date: Sunday, June 29
• Time: 12pm
• Place: Family Area
• Book title: The Feelings Book, by Todd Parr
• Celebrity reader: TBD

“The more we can get across to everyone to be accepting and kind, the better our world will be,” Romero said. Her son came out as gay in high school, which is when she researched organizations to get involved with so her son felt seen and supported. Romero found The Center on Colfax and has been a steadfast volunteer ever since. 

Denver’s first LGBTQ+ pride celebration dates back to 1974. The Center on Colfax was founded shortly thereafter in 1976. Extensive security measures have been put in place for Denver Pride this year–and in past years–to ensure all attendees feel safe. The two-day event includes a 5K, parade, exhibitors, food vendors, live performances, and more. 

“Denver Pride is an event that keeps up with the community,” Hiller said. “We really listen to what the community wants and evolve the event accordingly. It’s truly about creating connections for people of all ages. I can’t tell you how many times people have come up and told me, ‘my child came out to me at PrideFest’ or that a parent walked the parade with their child. Denver Pride is about accepting all people for who they are.”  

Denver Pride is one of the largest events in the country. Learn more about Denver Pride and be sure to visit DPP’s booth at the event. And don’t miss DPP at other events throughout the Denver area. 

Additional LTBTQ+ Resources for Preschoolers

Introducing your preschooler to LGBTQ+ resources, including books, can help them learn acceptance and compassion at an early age. Check out these websites to get started: 

• GLAAD’s LGBTQ Children’s Booklist 
• 30 Great LGBTQ+ Picture Books for Kids
• LGBTQ+ Resources for Parents and Families 
• Resources from The Center on Colfax