Youth Spotlight: Mountain Youth Young Adults

By Hannah Conoley, Community Mobilizer

MOYA: Building Belonging for Young Adults in Eagle River Valley

In the heart of Eagle River Valley, a vibrant new program is helping young adults find connection, creativity, and community. MOYA—short for Mountain Youth Young Adults—is a Mountain Youth initiative designed for individuals ages 18 to 30 who are seeking meaningful ways to engage with their community. MOYA is designed to empower young adults to get involved, explore their passions, and make a positive impact on their community.

MOYA offers welcoming spaces where young adults can experience life in a fun, safe, and authentic way. Whether it’s through art nights, cooking workshops, outdoor adventures, or casual social events, the program creates opportunities to build friendships and explore new interests. Each activity is intentionally designed to spark creativity, encourage teamwork, and foster a sense of belonging.

What sets MOYA apart is its responsiveness to the voices of young adults. The program began with a community survey in 2024 and continues to evolve based on participant feedback. From bilingual staff to flexible scheduling, MOYA ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all. “We keep our ears wide open,” the team shares. “Got a crazy idea? Tell us—we’ll do our best to make it happen.”

MOYA also thrives through collaboration. Partnerships with local organizations like Avon Recreation Center, Vail Valley Mountain Trails Alliance, Dewey Dabbles, and Discover Vail help expand its reach and impact. Money can be tight for young adults and that’s why at some events there are raffles for gift cards. Plus, every time an attendee fills out a satisfaction survey they get the chance to win the monthly raffle! In a valley where long winters and transient populations can make connection difficult, MOYA is carving out space for young adults to feel rooted and supported.

To learn more or get involved, visit mountainyouth.org/moya or follow @moya.vailvalley on Instagram. With weekly themed events—from sports and art to volunteering and nature—MOYA is redefining what it means to grow together in community.