Youth Spotlight: Kylee Buchanan

By Jo Pennock, Intervention and Prevention Programs Manager at Mountain Youth

At this year’s Youthapalooza event hosted by Mountain Youth, I had the pleasure of working alongside an incredible young leader—Kylee Buchanan. As a youth advisor for the Community Action Collective’s Youth Advisory Committee, Kylee’s dedication, energy, and kindness didn’t just support the event—they elevated it. Youthapalooza simply wouldn’t have been the same without her.

Kylee is the kind of person who leads by example. She’s a varsity athlete in both cross country and track at Battle Mountain High School, and when she’s not running or racing, she’s volunteering her time with Mountain Life Church’s youth group. She’s also a member of the National English Honor Society and deeply committed to her role within the broader community. Her plate is full, but she handles it all with grace and heart.

When I asked Kylee what she loves most about being involved in Mountain Youth, she shared that it’s the opportunity to make a difference in her community—and to meet other people who share her values. That sense of purpose is evident in everything she does. From helping run library programs and volunteering at Vail Rec District races to pitching in at local events, Kylee’s impact is far-reaching.

She believes deeply in the power of youth engagement, saying, “If the youth of the valley are not involved, then the future of the community will not be bright, safe, and lively.” That’s a vision we can all rally behind, and it’s clear Kylee is doing her part to make it a reality.

In her spare time, Kylee enjoys running and hiking the beautiful trails of our valley, curling up with a good book, baking, and—like many of us—enjoying a big plate of pasta. She’s also a proud twin and shares her home with a self-proclaimed “crazy dog,” rounding out her already vibrant life.

What Kylee hopes to leave behind through her work is a stronger, more connected, and safer community—and I’d say she’s well on her way. I’m grateful to have crossed paths with her, and I can’t wait to see what she does next.