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Colorado Shooting Survivor Paralyzed By Teen Gunman, Joins National Gun Violence Prevention Nonprofit Board

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 6, 2026

Denver Shooting Survivor Angelo Duran, Paralyzed in Colorado Attack, Appointed to National Advisory Board of Youth Peace & Justice Foundation / Uvalde Foundation For Kids

Dallas, Texas / Denver, Colorado — The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation and Uvalde Foundation For Kids today announced the appointment of shooting survivor Angelo Duran to its National Advisory & Voting Board.


Duran, who was critically injured and left paralyzed following a shooting incident in Colorado, has become a nationally recognized advocate for survivor support, youth safety, and violence prevention. His lived experience and continued advocacy will contribute to the Foundation’s national programming and advisory efforts focused on crisis response and community healing.

Foundation leadership stated that Duran’s appointment reflects an ongoing effort to elevate survivor perspectives within decision-making structures related to school safety, emergency preparedness, and youth violence prevention.


“Angelo represents extraordinary courage and resilience,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder & President of the Foundation. “His perspective as a survivor brings an essential voice to our national advisory work. We are honored to welcome him into this leadership role and look forward to his contributions across our initiatives.”

Duran expressed appreciation for the appointment and emphasized his commitment to supporting other survivors and advancing prevention-focused outreach efforts.


“I am humbled and honored to be part of the Uvalde Foundation family,” Duran said. “I hope my experience can help others and contribute to meaningful change in communities affected by violence.”

The Foundation also confirmed that Duran is scheduled to receive its National Heroism Award in Summer 2026, recognizing his actions and efforts during the incident in Colorado. The award presentation is currently in planning stages and will include coordination with community partners and potential public ceremony details to be announced at a later date.


Under Durans direction, the foundation noted it is also spearheading a GOFUNDME effort to assist paralyzed shooting survivors through STEM cell research and treatment research.

As part of his advisory role, Duran is expected to participate in national outreach initiatives, survivor mentorship programming, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing youth violence and strengthening community response systems.

The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation/ Uvalde Foundation For Kids operates initiatives centered on youth violence prevention, survivor support, community outreach, and crisis response awareness. Their work includes national advocacy campaigns, mentorship efforts, and school and community-based safety programming.

Media Contact

Youth Peace & Justice Foundation / Uvalde Foundation For Kids

Phone: 254-499-8027

Charity ID: 88-3268749



 
 
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