Meet

Ericka M. Porter

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A proud native of the Denver Metro Area, I've wanted to inspire and develop the next generation from early in my own life. I came to youth work because I wanted to be for young people what I needed, and eventually received, during my own high school and college years.

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For 25 years, I've come alongside urban and under-served students through youth-serving nonprofits, public education, DEI leadership, and urban ministry. Along the way I've led programs from the first idea through full implementation, which taught me what young people need to thrive and how much a strong, caring relationship can change a path. I still mentor and lead high school girls today, and it keeps me grounded in why this work matters.

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In 2022, I took a leap and started Rise Up Training & Consulting to support youth-serving organizations through effective collaboration, professional development, and program design. As a certified DiSC facilitator and coach, I help teams understand each other, engage young people more effectively, and build programs that are equitable, sustainable, and successful. I've also had the honor of speaking and facilitating for community-based and corporate organizations across Colorado, always with the goal that every participant feels they belong.

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I hold tightly to the belief that "there is no such thing as other people's kids." Every one of us shares responsibility for the young people in our communities, and the best programs outlast the people who start them.

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A little more about me: I'm the oldest of four sisters, love sushi, am a die-hard Denver Broncos fan. I will absolutely dance AND sing to random songs that play in the grocery store aisle. I also love meeting new people and hearing their stories. 

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EMP