Babywearing Voices: Mile High Babywearing

When reflecting on babywearing groups that have weathered storms and emerged even stronger, Mile High Babywearing stands as a testament to dedication and community spirit. This Colorado-based non-profit has not only survived through significant challenges but has continued to thrive and support countless families along the way. Its story, marked by resilience, passionate volunteers, and adaptability, is one that offers both inspiration and practical insights for babywearing advocates everywhere.

The Foundation and Early Challenges

Mile High Babywearing has roots in the once-vibrant Babywearing International (BWI) organization, which had a strong presence throughout the Denver metro area and beyond. From regular meetups to expanding as far as the Eastern Plains, the BWI group was a central resource for parents seeking babywearing support. However, when BWI disbanded, it left a void in the community. Yet, in true pioneering spirit, several dedicated volunteers, including CBWS Foundations graduate Sarah Hieb (learn more about her here) and Angela Kaufman, took it upon themselves to establish Mile High Babywearing as an independent non-profit, ensuring that the support and camaraderie parents relied on would not be lost.

"We were determined not to let that sense of community disappear,"

Sarah Hieb said.

"Families had come to depend on us, and we knew we had to find a way to keep that going."

Cara Jones, another longtime volunteer, highlighted how the transition required immense coordination.

"When BWI dissolved, it felt like we were losing a lifeline. But stepping up to re-create that structure independently was empowering. It showed us just how much we could achieve together."

Navigating the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a new set of challenges. In-person meetups, a staple of the group’s support system, came to a sudden halt. Yet, the volunteers did not let this deter them. They found creative ways to remain connected with families, from online tutorials and office hours to porch pick-ups for carriers. These efforts kept the sense of community alive and provided much-needed guidance to parents during an unprecedented time.

"It was tough,"

Sarah shared.

"There were so many unknowns, but we kept adapting to make sure parents could still access the support they needed. Whether that was through virtual meetings or safe carrier exchanges, we found a way."

Cara emphasized the importance of staying connected even during isolation. 

"We knew that parents were more stressed than ever. Maintaining that support network, even virtually, became essential not just for them, but for us as volunteers, too. It kept us motivated."

Rebuilding In-Person Connections

As restrictions lifted and in-person activities resumed, the group faced the next hurdle: rebuilding its network of volunteers and restarting meetups. The transition wasn’t easy. Many original volunteers had moved on, leaving a smaller, but determined, team. Mile High Babywearing’s outgoing president Rowan Velasquez recounted how crucial it was to rely on those who were still committed to reigniting in-person support.

“Mile High Babywearing is a 100% volunteer-run organization,”

Rowan explained. 

“Volunteers don't get paid to lead the meetups or take care of administration tasks.  We do it because we love babywearing and want to support families.  It’s a lot of time investment, and thankfully there were a few really passionate volunteers willing to start it back up”

Sarah echoed this sentiment, saying, 

"It’s really about the love for helping parents. You have to be passionate to give that much time and energy without expecting anything in return."

Cara shared how rewarding it felt to re-establish face-to-face interactions.

"After months of virtual work, finally seeing parents and their babies in person again was incredible. It reminded us of the human connection that makes this work so meaningful."

Rowan’s own journey with the organization began in September 2021 after attending a meetup to find better carriers for her second daughter. With her enthusiasm sparked, she soon found herself stepping up to lead a new location when no weekend meetups on the south side of town were available. Taking charge of the South meetup location, Rowan initially ran sessions alone, using her knowledge and learning along the way.

“Those first few meetups, I could only help with carriers I was comfortable with,” Rowan shared.

“But it was a good learning experience—helping others helped me grow my own knowledge. Completing the Newborn Babywearing Course through CBWS was incredibly helpful to build my confidence and competence with helping families as well.”

Sarah added, 

"Seeing new volunteers step up, learn, and grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. It reminds me why we keep pushing forward."

Cara recalled how the volunteers supported each other during this rebuilding phase. 

"We leaned on each other a lot. Whether it was sharing tips or just lending a hand at meetups, that teamwork was essential."

Building a Stronger Future

Over time, Rowan’s dedication inspired others to join her the South meet up, expanding the volunteer base and strengthening the group’s capacity. Today, Mile High Babywearing has a team of around 20 active volunteers supporting 4 meet up locations, all driven by a shared passion for babywearing, even as their own children grow beyond that stage. This enduring commitment ensures that the organization can continue to meet the needs of new parents and caregivers seeking support.

"We’ve seen so many parents come in feeling overwhelmed, and leave feeling confident," Sarah said. "That transformation is why we do this—it’s what keeps us going."

Cara shared a similar sentiment: 

"It’s not just about babywearing; it’s about empowering parents to feel confident and capable. Being a part of that journey is why I continue to volunteer."

 

For anyone looking to start or revitalize their own babywearing group, Mile High Babywearing’s story is full of lessons and inspiration.

Their journey shows that it takes more than passion—it takes resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to nurturing community bonds. The group’s volunteers remind us that challenges, from the dissolution of larger organizations to the isolation of a pandemic, can be overcome with creativity and teamwork. Most importantly, Mile High Babywearing teaches us that when a community is driven by a genuine desire to support and empower parents, the rewards extend far beyond the meetups. It's a powerful call to action: build, persist, and know that every effort helps foster a world where parents feel seen, supported, and confident.

If you would like to learn more about Mile High Babywearing and their mission to empower families through babywearing, visit www.mihibw.org.