Lean on Me Award Winner Michelle Barnes is Putting in the Work

Envision:You is proud to honor another amazing supporter of the community with a Lean on Me award: Michelle Barnes, executive director of the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS), as well as a member of Governor Jared Polis’ Cabinet. 

Barnes’ work with CDHS is a continuous effort towards advocating for queer inclusion in public policy, health equity, and reforming behavioral health to bring about positive change in Colorado and beyond. Her more than 15 years of experience in various sectors, including government, for-profit, and nonprofit, have equipped her to take on challenging social policies fearlessly. Barnes has assumed leadership positions in several organizations, including founding Interim Leadership Solutions in 2008, which provided interim CEO services to organizations in transition such as Food Bank of the Rockies, Senior Housing Options, and Tourette Association. Her experience also spans youth development, domestic violence, environmental sustainability, getting youth active outdoors, and early childhood education. She holds an MBA from UCLA and a BA from the College of William & Mary.

“I personally am proud to be an ally for the LBGTQ+ community,” she says regarding the award. “It is time to raise up the voices and experiences of ALL Coloradoans and celebrate our diversity. At our organization, we are committed to providing culturally competent and inclusive services to all members of the LGBTQ+ community. We believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”

The award recognizes the hard work Barnes has put in for mental health in Colorado, for queer folks and the community at large. 

“The Lean on Me Award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team in advancing the mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community,” she adds. “We know that the intersection of identity, and mental health can be complex, and we are committed to providing affirming, equitable, and accessible services to all who need them.”

“We are proud to recognize Director Barnes for her unwavering commitment to supporting the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado. Her tireless work has brought about positive change and made a real difference in the lives of countless individuals. We are honored to partner with her and look forward to continuing our work together to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all,” says Steven Haden, chief executive officer of Envision:You.

Barnes will continue to put in the work to ensure that Colorado remains a safe and equitable place for all Coloradans despite how they identify or who they love.