In 2013,  our work began as a group of concerned parents who met in the Colorado Capitol after the voters of Colorado passed Amendment 64, which legalized recreational marijuana use for those 21 years and older. A state task force convened to create the “first in the world” regulatory framework to license, regulate, and tax this new industry. When this task force ranked the “public health and safety of Colorado youth” last of its priorities we realized we had to organize to be the voice for kids. This stark reality of profits over kids led to the formation of the nonpartisan, nonprofit, Smart Colorado.

In 2020, we rebranded Smart Colorado, to One Chance To Grow Up. The rebranding clearly defines that our goals and principles are focused on transparency and education of parents, trusted adults, policymakers, and regulators nationwide, to implement and orchestrate sound THC policy, and robust regulations to protect all youth.

No matter how anyone feels about legalization, we all must agree that marijuana is bad for kids. Because of our exclusive focus and firm but pragmatic stance, we cross the aisle and engage diverse stakeholders to make an impact.

We do not receive or apply for any tax revenues from the sale of marijuana or THC so we provide an independent and trusted voice for kids.  We are 100% funded by citizens and foundations that value the importance of protecting kids from the harmful consequences of marijuana/THC commercialization.