Celebrating Healthy Communities, which promotes developmental assets and healthy choices for area youth, turned 26 this week.

For the birthday, coalition members celebrated in Shoshone Park in Ignacio with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, watermelon and cake. Guests of honor were the members of the Boys and Girls Club of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.

In addition to the birthday, there were some other milestones to honor, as well.

Bruce LeClair was awarded a superhero cape for working with local youth for 30 years. He is now the CEO of the boys and girls club and oversees youth services and programs for the tribe.

"I'm proud of our Boys and Girls Club," he said with the cape draped over his shoulders. Club staffers receive extensive training and work hard to serve area youth, he said.

Pat Senecal is retiring as the director of Celebrating Healthy Communities, and Breeah Kinsella, the coalition's coordinator, will step into Senecal's position. Senecal also received a cape and crown to thank her for her years of service.

Celebrating Healthy Communities works to improve the quality of life for La Plata County residents through community collaboration, social norming, and youth adult partnerships. The coalition is comprised of local organizations, active coalition members, and about 300 community members. More information is at http://www.ourhealthycommunities.org/