For Lyla Baker, giving back to the Yampa Valley isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of life. Growing up in Steamboat, Lyla has always felt loved and supported by our close-knit community and wanted to give back to make sure others feel the same.
Her passion for helping others and her love for learning was her inspiration for starting the Study Friends Club which helps Emerging Bilingual students access free tutoring services. “I’ve seen how limited access to education can affect a student’s future. I wanted to change that. I want to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or language barriers, can experience the same love of learning that I hold dear.”
Lyla is most proud of her work with a shy elementary student who struggled with English. After a few months of tutoring, he really opened up, cracking jokes, sharing stories, and showing remarkable growth in speaking English and reading. The most meaningful moment was when the student’s father told her the student had discovered a love for learning and had begun enjoying school. “That’s what I’m most proud of, helping someone find the same passion that drives me.”
Lyla also served as a board member for the Youth Roots initiative, a program of the Yampa Valley Community Foundation, where she and her peers raised over $13,000 for youth mental health organizations, including REPS, Better Tomorrow, and NW Colorado Health. She also serves on the Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball Association Junior Board while continuing to tutor with Integrated Community.
Lyla’s advice to others thinking about giving back? “You’re never alone. Big ideas take collaboration. When I started Study Friends, I had no idea where to begin but with help from the school district and Integrated Community, we made it happen. The Yampa Valley is full of people ready to support positive change.”
Looking ahead, Lyla’s vision is clear, expand Study Friends to serve all students in need of tutoring, regardless of language or background. “There are more than 200 elementary and middle school students signed up,” she shared. “I’d love to match each one with a high school volunteer. My dream is for every child to feel supported and empowered to learn.”
In a valley known for its beauty and spirit, this young leader is a shining example of how one person, armed with passion and purpose, can uplift a whole community—one student at a time.
