Denver Colfax Marathon – In Honor Of Jack Raife

Run in Jack Raife’s memory.

Jack Holden Raife died at the early age of 18 on April 2nd, 2023, from taking his life. Jack was born on November 30th, 2004, in Aspen, Colorado. He joined his family of three in Basalt: his sister and best friend, Makena, his mother, Kathy, and his father, David. He was one of the brightest souls the world has ever known.

His love for fashion, airplanes, animals, and piano brought so much love and light into our worlds. He was a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and went about life with an unapologetic sparkle. After growing up in the Roaring Fork Valley, he spent time in Utah and Boulder, where he met many friends who loved him dearly. In 2022, Jack graduated from Telos Academy a semester early, where he then started an accelerated college career at the University of Colorado Boulder.

Jack had a beautiful and bright future and was the sweetest, kindest, most caring, and forgiving soul. He left a positive impact on every life he touched. Jack’s presence lit up every room he walked into, slaying and turning heads. Jack Raife will be deeply missed by his sister, family, and friends whom he surrounds himself with. His witty and creative mind will forever be remembered, but his impact on the world is just beginning.

-Makena Raife

AspenOUT

• Underwrote therapy for local LGBTQ+ youth – 500+ hours since 2021
• Funds local GSA and PFLAG clubs
• Supports and produces pride events and social gatherings
• Gives grants to local, regional, and national LBGTQ+ nonprofits – 22+ organizations
• Gives Scholarships to area students – 6 to 12 each school year
• Produces AGSW – the one and only!

AspenOUT is a fantastic organization that is leading the charge in the RFV. Working together can create a more supportive environment where mental health conversations are encouraged, and young people feel empowered to seek help.

Youth Mental Health Support: AspenOUT works to make sure all LQBTQ+ youth in the Roaring Fork Valley (RFV), regardless of income and regardless of parental knowledge of their gender identity or sexual orientation, have access to a licensed, skilled, and compassionate therapist specifically trained in LGBTQ+ youth engagement. AspenOUT works with school counselors and administrators, local GSA and PFLAG clubs, and the local suicide prevention nonprofit to apprise kids in need that they can obtain free, confidential counseling at a free or reduced rate.