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
Miss Emily Griffith founded Griffith Centers in 1927, planting the seeds of an organization whose history is as inspiring as it is impactful. We invite you to journey with us through the legacy that shaped who we are today.
Emily Griffith was far more than an educator – she was a visionary and a fierce advocate for children. She believed every child deserved an education and the chance to build a self-sufficient future. Driven by this belief, she created a home where young people could find not only shelter, but also companionship, encouragement, and compassionate guidance.
Miss Emily’s unwavering vision empowered youth to see their own potential and rise above the challenges they faced. That same vision fuels the evolution of Griffith’s diverse programs, inspiring us to innovate, adapt, and deliver life-changing services for the communities we serve.
Milestones of Impact
Nearly a Century of Innovation in Care
1927
A Home for Boys
Emily Griffith, with support from the Kiwanis Club of Denver, opens a residence at 9 Pearl Street for homeless boys, “a home for the boy who needs one.” In four years, 233 young men find safety, schooling, work, and belonging.
1952-1975
Growing For Impact
A gym and workshop are added to support education, hobbies, and recreation. By 1964, the Center moves to 1260 Franklin Street. Responding to child abuse awareness, it becomes a comprehensive treatment center, adding an on-site residential school in 1975.
1980 – 1990s
Expanding Horizons
The Center expands to a 100-acre ranch in Larkspur, introducing Animal Therapy and a ropes course for confidence, teamwork, and resilience. In 1999, a Colorado Springs treatment facility opens, later adding independent living and day treatment programs.
2000s
Reaching More Youth
Residential programs open for boys in Rifle and girls in Grand Junction. The 2002 merger with CHINS UP brings foster care, adoption, and family preservation programs into Griffith’s continuum of care.
2010s-2020s
Innovation & Inclusion
A Denver location reopens, all residential programs consolidate to Colorado Springs, and telehealth launches in 2018. Programs like Transitional Skills and RELOAD Truancy Prevention support youth in school, work, and independent living.
2022 – 2023
A Broader Mission
Griffith’s Program Approved Service Agency (P.A.S.A.) launches to support adults with disabilities and clients aging out of care. With this expansion, the organization updates its name to Griffith Centers, reflecting a broader, inclusive mission. A new Substance Treatment Program further strengthens support for individuals and families across all stages of healing.
2023 – Today
Statewide Reach
Since its founding in 1927 by Emily Griffith with support from the Denver Kiwanis, Griffith Centers has grown from a small residence for homeless boys into a statewide leader in behavioral and mental health services. Over nearly a century, the organization has expanded its programs to include residential treatment, community-based foster care, adoption, family preservation, telehealth, transitional skills, truancy prevention, substance treatment, and services for adults with disabilities.
With seven office locations across Colorado and a strong focus on in-home and community services, Griffith Centers continues to provide compassionate, innovative care – helping children, adults, and families build hope, resilience, and fulfilling lives.
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.
Click the link below to get started with online therapy today!
Contact Info
10190 Bannock St. Suite 120
Northglenn, CO 80260
EIN: 84-0404251
Griffith Centers does not provide emergency mental health services. If you are in crisis or experiencing an emergency, please call 911 or contact Colorado emergency services immediately.
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.