Leverage Colorado

Who We Are

Leverage Colorado is an independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to making aging more affordable in Colorado. Founded with startup investment from Next50 Foundation, Leverage works to advance policies that strengthen economic well-being, expand access to opportunity, and ensure that all Coloradans can work, live, and thrive as they age. Through research, coalition building, and advocacy, Leverage aims to fill the gap between growing financial need and limited policy attention—turning demographic change into a force for economic and social progress.

Meet the President & CEO

Jarett Hughes most recently served as Director of Policy and Research for Governor Jared Polis, where he led cross-sector policy development focused on Colorado’s shifting demographics. Previously, he was the state’s Senior Policy Advisor on Aging and helped guide major initiatives related to the COVID-19 response, workforce, behavioral health, and housing investments. Before joining the Governor’s Office, Jarett managed Colorado’s Strategic Action Planning Group on Aging at the Department of Local Affairs. He holds a Master’s in Gerontology from the University of Northern Colorado, is a Denver Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, and serves on the Aurora Public Library Board.

Our Story

In 2025, Leverage Colorado launched with $3 million in startup funding from Next50 Foundation, a Denver-based national foundation that works toward a society that values aging.

Colorado is one of the fastest-aging states, and one of the most expensive to grow old in. Over 30% of Coloradans over the age of 65 are economically insecure. Housing in Colorado costs approximately 20% more than the national average, and the cost of housing in Denver is 37% more than the national average.

While Colorado’s existing advocacy groups provide valuable services, none solely champion comprehensive affordability solutions for older adults. With Leverage, Colorado now has a dedicated advocacy organization focused exclusively on affordable aging to drive systemic change. Leverage unites policy, data, and community voices to make aging affordable for all.

Leverage Colorado is preparing for a full public launch in 2026, as it builds the advocacy infrastructure to make aging more affordable across Colorado.

Read Aging at Altitute

Your Future, Our Focus

Who We Are

Meet the President & CEO

Join Us

Our Story

Your Future, Our Focus

Who We Are

Meet the President & CEO

Join Us

Our Story

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