We gratefully acknowledge the invaluable contribution of our volunteers at Hope Ignites Colorado.
Their dedication helps us in our mission of making a significant impact within our community.
Volunteer Ann Moore with Aurora Central High School scholars receiving certificates recognizing that they have completed the Cowboy Ethics curriculum.
Ann Moore
During the 2025-2026 academic year, Hope Ignites Colorado Volunteer and retired English teacher, Ann Moore, brought her teaching expertise to strengthen programming for a number of our Aurora Central High School Senior Scholars.
These scholars worked with Ann to go through Cowboy Ethics, a curriculum she developed that has been used largely in Wyoming as well as in schools across the country. The curriculum uses the book, Cowboy Ethics: What It Takes to Win at Life by James P. Owen to explore character, core values, principles, and personal responsibility. The curriculum had scholars read the book, watch related video clips, complete a variety of self-reflection writing assignments, and discuss the content as a small group.
Hope Ignites Colorado is so grateful for the way Ann brought her expertise and shared it with our Scholars and asked her to share about her experience volunteering with us this year!
How long have you been a volunteer with Hope Ignites Colorado and how did you get involved with the organization?
I began volunteering with Hope Ignites Colorado in September of 2025. As a retired high school English teacher, I wanted to continue using my skills to support and encourage young people. My brother volunteered with Boys Hope years ago alongside Father Sheridan, and I have long admired the organization’s mission and commitment to helping students succeed.
What do you like most about volunteering with Hope Ignites Colorado?
Without a doubt, working with the incredible students. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn make every experience rewarding.
What is your most memorable experience volunteering with Hope Ignties Colorado?
One of my favorite memories came while teaching Cowboy Ethics. For the first time in all my years of teaching the book, two students, Kailani and Chantal, decided to sing the poem The Fence That Me and Shorty Built rather than simply read it aloud. It was priceless. Soon, the rest of the students joined in by reading passages with a Southern cowboy accent. Their creativity and engagement brought the material to life and made the experience richer, more meaningful, and unforgettable for everyone involved.
Why do you continue to support Hope Ignites Colorado?
I strongly believe in Hope Ignites’ mission to “nurture and guide motivated young people in need to become well-educated, career-ready men and women for others.” I see that mission in action every time I work with the students. Watching young people grow in confidence, develop new skills, and embrace opportunities is both inspiring and hopeful. It is a privilege to be part of their journey.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Hope Ignites Colorado?
Do it! Volunteering with Hope Ignites is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. You will make a meaningful difference in students’ lives, but you will also find yourself inspired by their resilience, determination, and potential.
Scholars share thoughts on what the Cowboy Ethics Curriculum calls the ‘Eleventh Principle.”