By RMV Staff | Rocky Mountain Voice
It was more than just another Tuesday morning at Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado—it was a full-on Turning Point. Nearly 50 students, faculty, and guests gathered for the official launch of Valor’s new Turning Point USA chapter, and let’s just say, the energy was more electric than a Bronco game on a Sunday afternoon.
Gabby Reichardt, the Rockies High School Field Representative for Turning Point USA, called the launch a personal milestone. “I’m super proud to have a chapter at Valor as my alma mater and it was definitely a target school of mine for a long time.” She added, “Having a community surrounding the students who want to help support the chapter is really great. And that’s definitely part of our broader high school strategy.”
Led by student president Charlotte Shafer, the event kicked off with warmth, conviction, and—fittingly—a prayer. Introduced by none other than Heidi Ganahl, founder of Rocky Mountain Voice and longtime advocate for youth empowerment, Shafer welcomed the crowd and set the tone for a meaningful gathering focused on freedom, values, and the courage to stand up for what matters.
Enter Danielle Jurinsky, Aurora City Council member and a woman who knows a thing or two about standing her ground. She brought words of wisdom and heart to the group, challenging students to surround themselves with the right people and to never underestimate the power of quiet courage. “You don’t need to be the biggest or loudest to fight for your rights and freedom,” she said, inspiring nods across the room.
Next up? Former Denver Bronco and proud American, Derek Wolfe. He didn’t come to play games—unless you count winning in life. “Be a wolf or a lion, not a sheep,” he said, reminding students to lead with boldness and strength. With a name like Wolfe, who better to drive that point home?
TPUSA’s approach, Reichardt explained, isn’t just about politics—it’s about helping young people understand their beliefs. “Our ability to make political topics or themes… instead of being overly political, making it fun and engaging for them to learn about their beliefs and to be able to articulate them.” She added, “The hope is that it’s fun for them.”
One thing that stood out at the event? The girls. “We have so many high school girls getting involved with us at Valor.” Reichardt added, “Which is a really promising sight to see because across the nation, it’s young boys that are trending right. I knew that if the boys were trending right, that eventually the girls would start to come back around.”
Heidi Ganahl wrapped things up with a spirited Q&A session, making sure students got back to class, but not before thanking her daughter, Hollie Ganahl—Valor student and Vice President of the new chapter—for helping make the morning a success. Heidi shared her heart, too, longing to see Colorado return to the “wild, wild West” she remembers—a place of grit, grit, and a whole lot of grace.
Reichardt emphasized that the high school program is still expanding nationwide. “We’ve been doing the college game for a while… we really perfected that formula, but we’re still in the stage of growing our ground for high school.” She continued, “Parents and students should know that Turning Point USA exists for high schoolers… and we cover all 50 states.”
Backed by the vision of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who believes in empowering students to stand for free markets and free speech, this new chapter at Valor is a beacon of hope. It’s proof that today’s youth aren’t just scrolling—they’re stepping up.
Here’s to Charlotte, Hollie, and every student at Valor who’s choosing to lead with courage and conviction. The torch has been passed—and it’s burning bright.