Past Building Bridges Successes!

Using comedy and storytelling to bring communities together and break stigma is at the heart of The YAY! Foundation’s proven approach. Our impact is reflected not only in the success of our programs, but also in the voices of partners and participants who have experienced the difference firsthand. Below, you’ll find letters of recommendation that demonstrate how our work continues to foster connection, reduce stigma, and inspire lasting change.

• Aidan recently served as an inspirational speaker and facilitator for a meeting on gun violence prevention on the Ute Mountain Ute reservation, (of Montezuma County) co-hosted by Colorado Ceasefire. His contribution to this critical conversation was nothing short of remarkable. From the outset, Aidan brought an infectious passion for creating safer communities, which immediately captured the attention of the audience. His ability to connect with participants, both on an intellectual and emotional level, created an environment where people felt seen, heard, and valued. Even in moments where difficult truths emerged, Aidan navigated the discussion with a rare combination of empathy, professionalism, and respect.
  -ON YAY FOUNDATION’S WORK WITH UTE MOUNTAIN UTE TRIBE

  Full Letter of recommendation Here

  COLORADO CEASEFIRE, COLORADO STATE WIDE

• “The YAY Foundation takes a unique and impactful approach to mental health advocacy by using comedy and storytelling to reduce stigma and increase accessibility. In a field often burdened by formality and disconnection, their work provides a refreshing and much-needed bridge between providers and community members…. As a gay, BIPOC leader, Aidan brings a vital perspective to the mental health space. His presence and programming offer not only innovation but also cultural responsiveness, which is especially needed in communities like ours. The rapid, enthusiastic response to his work is a testament to its effectiveness.”
  Full Letter of recommendation Here
  MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION ORANGE COUNTY
  

  “The program is not just a “one and done” experience; instead, it creates a sustainable model by empowering local community members to continue the work. The “cast” and team who worked with Aidan have become a support system within themselves. The power of this program was evident when a local sheriff, who initially declined to participate as a cast member, came to the Executive Director a^er the show and expressed his regret after witnessing the profound impact of the show.
  Full Letter of recommendation Here
  NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS, WHEELING WV
  
  The YAY! Foundation exemplifies adaptability, creativity, and unwavering dedication to creating a positive impact. Led by Executive Director Aidan Park and Program Director Ben Gross, their team brings a wealth of experience from producing events for esteemed comedy venues nationwide. Their attention to detail ensures that each event is not only enjoyable, but also technically proficient and effectively meets the participants' needs.
  Full Letter of recommendation Here
  NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS, Orange County

  We are now in our third consecutive year partnering with YAY to produce World AIDS Day events in rural communities like Grand Junction and Durango, CO. In 2023, the event sold out and became a highlight of the season. The atmosphere was joyful, emotional, and connective—watching HIV-positive individuals share their stories through laughter brought the room together in a way few advocacy tools can. One story stands out: a newly diagnosed client attended the event feeling afraid and isolated. After seeing a room full of happy, healthy people living with HIV, she left with a renewed sense of hope and connection. That kind of transformation is what meaningful advocacy looks like.

  Full Letter of recommendation Here

  COLORADO HEALTH NETWORK, COLORADO STATE WIDE

Community response has been so strong that we’ve opened a new Durango headquarters in addition to our Los Angeles flagship.

We have a long history of success with repeat invitations and track record of success

• A month-long empowerment and peer support program for disabled Native youth on the Ute Mountain Ute reservation, was such a success we have been asked to lead the teen summer internship program, with a focus on Connecting Ute Mountain Ute youths and young adults to build bridges for success

• A yearlong creative recovery initiative for LA PLATA County for LGBTQ and BIPOC individuals, in collaboration with the Colorado Health Foundation

• Our third annual World AIDS Day comedy workshop with Colorado Health Network

• A return invitation to Fort Lewis College’s WELL PAC to work directly with students on mental health advocacy through humor after a successful partnership with Native American Center

Program Highlight: YAY! in Action

In Spring 2024, we partnered with the American Legion and Young People in Recovery to produce YAY! for Recovery in Durango. The program was a sold-out success, featuring veterans, civilians, and those in recovery sharing their stories on stage through stand-up comedy.

The public showcase received standing ovations, and participants reported increased confidence, emotional release, and community connection.

📰 Read the local coverage about YAY! For Recovery in the Durango Herald:
https://www.durangoherald.com/articles/from-trauma-to-laughter-durango-nonprofit-brings-comedy-to-recovery/

📰 Read the local coverage in the Durango Herald:
https://www.durangoherald.com/articles/lgbtq-comedy-workshop-coming-to-durango/

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