Autonomous Yurt Union - Denver

Autonomous Yurt Union Denver is raising funds to build yurt-inspired structures for unhoused community members on unceded Ute, Arapahoe, and Cheyenne territories.

We are committed to year-round infrastructural and weather-related support to community members living outside. This work shifts throughout the year. During the winter, we focus on yurt-inspired structures and firewood. Yurts make winter in Colorado survivable, as temperatures at night frequently fall below freezing. With a wood stove and heavy duty tarp, yurts can make a life or death difference in cold snaps of single digit and subzero temperatures. Since we are in our first year of operation, we will be working in collaboration with community members to determine what support will look like during the summer months.

Material Costs for Yurts:

Total Cost Per Yurt (without door): $412
Total Cost Per Yurt (with door): $444

We are consistently seeking financial donations to build structures, as well as provide maintenance and supplies to those already established. Additionally, the nature of this work means that DPD and EHS will destroy and sweep the infrastructure we are providing to our neighbors. Instead of letting that deter us, we want to come back stronger and more determined each time! More funds would allow us to deepen our existing support work and expand our efforts.

We are always integrating feedback and requests from our neighbors into the design of the structures and how we are offering support. As the designs we use shift, we will prioritize cost effectiveness, community safety, and quality of life for residents. We are also aiming to build and strengthen community partnerships with other mutual aid organizations so we can support and uplift one another to provide resources to meet basic needs like shelter, food, and water.

In addition to financial support, we love material donations and folks who want to volunteer their time to support these efforts! Find our wishlist below, and follow us on instagram @ayu_denver or email us at [email protected] for information about how to become more involved or donate supplies!

MATERIAL WISHLIST:
- Angle Grinder 
- Miter Saw
- Miter saw table 
- Trucks ;) 
- Saw Horses 
- Parachord 
- Drill Press 
- Table Saw
- Saw Mill 
- Generator 
- Power Banks
- Flashlights / Lanterns 
- Handwarmers 
- Blankets 
- Duct Tape 
- Lighters 
- Firewood 
- Bungee chords