A place to be your whole self
Fort Collins has few spaces built around Black youth. CEC is one of them: a place where students can show up as their full selves, connect, heal, and define who they are together.
Staff-approved photos rotate here.
Rooted in the African American experience
Our academic and cultural framework connects students with the history, literature, arts, music, dance, traditions, and folklore of the African American experience.
- Music productionStudents explore their creativity and find their voice through making music.
- Video productionFilming and editing their own stories.
- STEM & techScience, technology, engineering, and math in a culturally rich setting.
- Health equitySelf-worth, cultural pride, and community belonging.
- Black historyThe history and culture of the African American experience.
Parent testimonialOne of the most impactful aspects of the CEC is how it supported my son’s dreams. When he joined the center, there was an animation class that helped him nurture his passion for animation. This class solidified his dream of becoming an animator, and even after the teacher left, the CEC went above and beyond to provide him with a computer equipped with animation software so he could continue his journey.
Young people who lead
Staff who share our students’ lived experience build lasting relationships with them, and every program carries a racial equity lens.
- Youth LeadershipStudents discover their voice and leadership style.
- Community PartnershipStudents advocate on community issues and build solidarity.
- Emotional & Social HealthSkills to meet life’s challenges with confidence.
- Self-AdvocacyA positive self-image and the tools to speak up.