At Griffith Centers, our roots run deep—beginning with a single act of compassion by a woman determined to make a difference. Since 1927, we’ve grown from a small home for boys into a statewide organization providing trauma-informed care for children, adults, and families in need. Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to hope and healing.
The Legacy of Emily Griffith
A Visionary Ahead of Her Time
Emily Griffith was more than an educator—she was a trailblazer for social change. With a bold vision to provide children with education, shelter, and the confidence to shape their futures, she founded what would become Griffith Centers. Her legacy lives on through our programs, which continue to reflect her belief that with the right support, every individual has the capacity to overcome adversity and thrive.
Milestones of Impact
Nearly a Century of Innovation in Care
1927
A Home for the Boy Who Needs One
With support from the Kiwanis Club of Denver, Emily Griffith opened a residence at Number 9 Pearl Street for homeless boys. It quickly became a safe haven—offering structure, education, and belonging. Over four years, more than 230 boys found shelter and support.
1950 – 1960s
Expansion & Evolution
A gym and workshop were added to the home in 1952, offering space for recreation and education. By 1964, the center moved to 1260 Franklin Street and expanded its mission to treat abuse and neglect. The foundation was laid for our future as a therapeutic center, including the launch of an on-site residential school in 1975.
1980 – 1990s
Into the Outdoors
Griffith Centers expanded to a 100-acre ranch in Larkspur, CO, introducing animal therapy and experiential treatments like ropes courses. These programs created new opportunities for youth to build confidence and resilience. In 1999, we expanded into Colorado Springs, with a treatment center and independent living services.
2000s
Reaching Further
In response to increasingly complex emotional needs, we opened new residential facilities in Rifle and Grand Junction and began serving girls for the first time. In 2002, Griffith Centers merged with CHINS UP to offer community-based services like foster care, adoption, and family preservation.
2011
A Shift Toward Community Integration
As our focus shifted toward reintegrating youth into their communities, we consolidated residential programs into our Colorado Springs campus and closed rural facilities. This allowed us to concentrate resources and expand critical community-based services.
2013 – 2015
Back to Our Roots
We returned to Denver, continuing our legacy where it all began. We launched our Transitional Skills Program to support youth aging out of care and introduced truancy prevention partnerships to boost school engagement.
2017 – 2022
Innovation in Care
We launched RELOAD to help youth develop life skills and introduced Tele-Behavioral Health—meeting clients wherever they are, a lifeline during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, we launched our P.A.S.A. program, serving adults with disabilities and helping clients transition into adulthood with dignity and support.
2023 – Today
Expanding Our Mission
In 2023, we officially became Griffith Centers, a name that reflects our commitment to serving individuals of all ages. We launched a Substance Abuse Program and broadened our reach to continue meeting the evolving needs of underserved populations across Colorado.
Always Moving Forward
A Legacy That Lives On
What began as one woman’s dream has become a comprehensive network of support across Colorado. Emily Griffith believed in the power of care, connection, and second chances. Nearly 100 years later, we still do.
At Griffith Centers, we honor the past while building the future—offering hope and healing, one life at a time.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Reach out to Griffith Centers today.
Hope and healing start here.
Contact Info
10190 Bannock St. Suite 120
Northglenn, CO 80260
EIN: 84-0404251
Important Links
Connect With Us
Griffith Centers holds the following licenses and certifications:
Council on Accreditation (COA) of Services for Families and Children, Inc.
Behavioral Health Administration (BHA)
Colorado Department of Education (CDE)
COGNIA (formerly known as AdvancED)
North Central Association of Schools
Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS)
For inquiries regarding our licenses and certifications, please contact us at info@griffithcenters.org.