Spark Change...T ake A ctio n.. . Check out stories, resources and highlights of members leading social justice work!
Volunteer!
t u o k Chec t x e n our y t i n u Comm ion t c e n n Co : e d o s Epi e c i t s u J l a i Soc
ust 2021 August Thank You to Our Promotional Partner, DEDO!
Social Justic e, Be Kind to Humankind W e e k, 9/11 Day of S ervice grant wishes and more!
OPPORTUNITIES, OPPORTUNITIES EVENTS & STORIES To Inspire Change in Your Community
In This Issue: August & September Events .......................2 What is Social Justice? ..................................3 9/11 Day of Service: 20th Anniversary........................................................4 Upcoming Ways to Spark Change ............5 DEIA in Volunteer Programming ..............7 Board & Virtual Opportunities ..................8 Grant a Nonprofit Wish! ..............................9 New Hire Spotlight: Meet Gabby! .........11 Community Connection Episode: Social Justice ...............................................................12 POL Civic Life Today Magazine: SERVICE ...........................................................14 Member Spotlight: Athena Project 16-18 Upcoming Events & Trainings ..................19 A Year of Kindness: July .............................20 Be Kind to Humankind Week 2021 ......21 Colorado Gives Day .....................................22 Volunteer with Spark ..................................23 Our Resources ...............................................24 Premium Member Listings .................................................6,10, 13, 15 & 19 Contact Us ....................................Back Cover
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Thank You to DEDO, a proud promotional partner of the Monthly Volunteer Guide
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t s u Aug National Back to School Month August 1st: Colorado Day! August 25th-31st: Be Kind to Humankind Week August 26th: Community Connection Episode Release- Social Justice
r e b m e t p Se National Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 11th: 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance Day 20th Anniversary Volunteer Event details on page x Sept. 12th: National Grandparents Day
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? e c i t s u J l a i c o S s i t a Wh Social Justice, as a concept, arose in the early 19th century during the Industrial Revolution- and subsequent civil revolutions throughout Europe- which aimed to create more egalitarian societies and remedy capitalistic exploitation of human labor. Because of the stark stratifications between the wealthy and the poor during this time, early social justice advocates focused primarily on capital, property, and the distribution of wealth. By the mid-20th century, social justice had expanded from being primarily concerned with economics to include other spheres of social life like the environment, race, gender, and other causes and manifestations of inequality. Concurrently, the measure of social justice expanded from being measured and enacted only by the nation-state (or government) to include a universal human dimension. (source: https://www.pachamama.org/social-justice/what-is-social-justice)
Social Justice and Civil Rights are human issues, meaning it takes dedication, commitment, and effort from every single individual to create a truly diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible society for all. If you're still looking for ways to do your part, we're here to help! This month's Volunteer Guide will provide some resources, stories, and action items to kick start your work in social justice. 3
: y r a s r e v i n 20th An e c n a r b m e m e R & e c i v r e 9/11 Day of S September 11, 2021, is the 20th Anniversary of that tragic day. It is important to remember, even a small act of service is a giant act of patriotism. Join Serve Colorado and Spark the Change Colorado to step forward to serve in a remarkable spirit of unity, honor, and compassion.
Packaging 100,000 meals in honor of...
9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance Looking for a place to serve in honor of the annual 9/11 Day of Service? Too many in our community continue to struggle with food insecurity because of the pandemic. Food pantries need to replenish their shelves.
We Need Your Help. We invite you to join us on September 10th, 11th or 12th to package 100,000 meals, per a grant from the City and County of Denver.*
Volunteer Shifts Available: Sept. 10th, 11th, & 12th 9:30am- 11:30am 12:00pm- 2:00pm 2:30pm- 4:30pm
Sign Up Today
Provided in Partnership with: *The food packing process is fun, safe, and socially distanced to ensure the safety of all our volunteers. Groups and families are welcome.
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Spark Change in YOUR community with Spark the Change Colorado.
Check out our next Community Connection Episode Release: Social Justice August 26th, 2021 On our YouTube Channel!
n i r e k a m e g n a h C a U O Y Are ? y t i n u m m o c r u yo k r a p S & o d a r o l o C e v r e S Join e h t r o f o d a r o l o C e g n a h the C e c i v r e S f o y a D 2021 9/11 ! x . g p n o e r o M n r a Le
Provided in Partnership with:
Our NEW: Points of Light Civic Circle Discussion Ser i e s Begins This We e k! A s w e b e g in t h is n
ew and exciting g r o u p , w e lo o k fo r t o sh a r in g m o r e i w ar d n fo r m a t io n w it h you as it comes! Be on the lookou t fo r u p d a t e s. R ead m ore ab out t h e se r ie s o n o u r w e b sit e .
Visit our website to stay up to date on all our latest news and updates! 5
Listings A Precious Child Broomfield // View Profile ABOUT: To provide children in need with opportunities and resources to empower them to achieve their full potential. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Joshua Walsh, joshua@apreciouschild.org
Aero Angel Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To provide free, lifesaving longdistance medical flights for critically ill children on private jets at no cost to their families. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Dan Paladino, dan@aeroangel.org
All-Stars Club Highlands Ranch, Lakewood, Littleton // View Profile ABOUT: To provide a place of belonging for individuals with special needs, along with a place of rest and support for their families. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Scott Russomanno, scott@allstarsclub.org
Athena Project Littleton // View Profile ABOUT: To empower women through the arts. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Angela Astle, aastle@athenaprojectarts.org
Audio Information Network of Co. Boulder, Statewide // View Profile ABOUT: To provide news and information in audio format for the blind, low vision and print disabled community of Colorado. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Kat Bradbury, kat@aincolorado.org
Benefits in Action Lakewood // View Profile ABOUT: Dedicated to improving the understanding, access, and utilization of healthcare INTERESTED? CONTACT: Sally O’Dwyer, sodwyer@benefitsinaction.org
Bridges Community Homecare & Hospice Colorado Springs, Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To increase quality of life and patient independence through principles of compassion, integrity, knowledge, and uncompromising service. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Heather Romero, hromero@bridgescommunitycare.com
Castle Rock Senior Activity Center Castle Rock // View Profile ABOUT: To make life more fulfilling and create community for seniors as they come here to engage in a wide variety of programming and services designed for “Loving Life in the Second Half” INTERESTED? CONTACT: Debbi Haynie, dhaynie@crgov.com
Celebrate the Beat Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To provide the highest quality inschool, after-school and virtual dance programs for all children that improves their physical health and well-being. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Mikayla Houser, mikayla@ctbeat.org
Children's Literacy Center Metro Denver, Pikes Peak Region, & Southern Colorado // View Profile ABOUT: To build a life of success through a foundation of literacy...ONE child at a time. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Pamela Polke, pamela@childrensliteracycenter.org
What are Listings? Listings give a brief overview of all our Spark Premium Members! The easiest way to find active opportunities with these great organizations is to sign up directly on our site!
*NEW COVID-19 has
changed the way some member organizations are utilizing volunteer help. Use this legend to get a quick look at available opportunities with some of our members! Virtual Opportunities
Youth Opportunities Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities Group Opportunities
Bullying Recovery Resource Center Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To building a community of support to help families rebuild and recover together. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Dru Ahlborg, dru@bullyingrrc.org
Clinica Colorado Westminster // View Profile ABOUT: To provide low cost health care for those who are indigent, without health insurance or unable to obtain primary care services. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Jill Schneider, jschneider@clinicacolorado.org
Did You Know?
Over the past 5 years, Volunteer Management Progr es s R ep o rt h as conducted surveys around volunteerism and uncovered a big issu ea la ck o f d iv er sity in respondents. Respondents are overwhelmingly Whit e (84%) Women (87%).
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g n i m m a r g o r P r e e t n u l o V n i D E IA Organizations that embrace Diversity, Equity, Inclusivity and Accessibility as core cultural values are more innovative, flexible, welcoming and better able to fulfill their missions. Inclusive organizations improve volunteer and staff satisfaction and commitment to the organization as well as decrease workplace conflict. To encourage and support this work, we've compiled the following DEIA in Volunteer Programming – A List of Actionable Items. DEIA work goes far beyond what this list or any list can possibly tackle. This list focuses on translating DEIA into action steps. However, it is critical for overarching issues related to DEIA to be addressed and for trust and transparency at an organizational level to be achieved. Thank you for doing the work! Remember, DEIA integration is cyclical and continuous, there is no 'check list' to complete. DEIA work is never finished and always changing. For more resources and support, we encourage you to connect with local organizations near you leading this work. There are courses, trainings, and support out there for organizations, large and small, to make the commitment to a more Diverse, Equitable, Inclusive, and Accessible community.
Download the List!
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s e i t i n u t r o p p O l a u t r i V & Board Athena Project Central Visitation Program
*NEW Clinica Colorado *NEW Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation *NEW Envision:You Human Services Network of Colorado I Have a Dream Foundation of Boulder County
So many s n o i t a z i n a g r o are seeking d r a o b t i f o r nonp members! Volunteer Today!
*NEW Into Your Hands Africa *NEW Rehabilitative Rhythms
*NEW Benefits in Action is looking for...
Medicare or Connect for Health Navigator
Volunteer from e s e h t h t i w e m o h Virtual ! s e i t i n u t r o p p O
Colorado Consumer Health Initiative is looking for... Medical Bill Coding Auditor Volunteer - From Home *NEW Colorado Division of Vocational
Rehabilitation is looking for... Business & Industry Board Reps. on the State Rehabilitation Council History Colorado is looking for... Transcription Hulk Industries is looking for.... Attorney
Search & Rescue Dogs of Colorado is looking for... Social Media Professional WeeCycle is looking for... Bust a Move! Youth Fundraiser
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h s i W t i f o r p n o N a e k a M ! e u r T e m Co
Want to give back, but still weary about in-person volunteering? Want to leverage your resources & network to help local nonprofits with what they need the most? Are YOU the Changemaker that can help make these wishes come true? Donate monetary or in-kind materials, start a donation drive, or volunteer to help in other ways with these organizations in need!:
Grant A Wish! 9
Listings Looking Looking for for an an opportunity opportunity to to give give back back this this year? year? AmeriCorps is recruiting hundreds of individuals to help tutor youth, get kids outdoors, feed hungry families, find housing for those in need, help to conserve our forests, and more.
Clothes To Kids of Denver Inc. Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To provide free school clothing to students from low-income or in-crisis families in a warm, welcoming storelike setting. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Eileen Robinson volunteer@clothestokidsdenver.org
Colorado Pet Pantry Multiple Locations // View Profile ABOUT: To temporarily feed Colorado pets, allowing families to increase their ability to care for pets with the goal of keeping them out of shelters and with their families. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Eileen Lambert, eileen@coloradopetpantry.org
You’ll earn: A living allowance while serving as an AmeriCorps member An education award to repay qualified student loans or pay for future education or training. Professional experience with a major impact!
Find an Opportunity! Questions? Click Here for more!
Colorado Talking Book Library Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To provide free services to Coloradans of all ages who are unable to read standard print material due to visual, physical, or learning disabilities whether permanent or temporary. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Terri Marcotte, marcotte_t@cde.state.co.us
Community Resource Center Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To create opportunities, tools and strategies to develop nonprofits and community groups to strengthen Colorado. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Maria Fabula, fabula@crcamerica.org
Covenant Cupboard Food Pantry Greenwood Village // View Profile ABOUT: To address the food security needs of seniors, disabled individuals, and the unemployed or underemployed households in our community in a compassionate, dignified and secure environment. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Volunteer Coordinator, volunteer@covcupboard.org
Douglas County Libraries Multiple Locations // View Profile ABOUT: To elevate the community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery, and connection. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Ali Ayres, aayres@dclibraries.org
Envision:You Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To support, educate, and empower members of Colorado’s LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and Denver Rescue Mission queer/questioning) community who Denver // View Profile are living with a mental health and/or ABOUT: substance use disorder. To change lives in the name of Christ by meeting people at their physical and INTERESTED? CONTACT: spiritual points of need, with the goal Steven Haden, steven.haden@envision-you.org of returning them to society as productive, self-sufficient citizens. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Sydnye McCleery smccleery@denrescue.org Extreme Community Makeover Denver, Multiple Locations // View Profile Denver Children's Advocacy Center Denver // View Profile
ABOUT: To coordinate volunteer teams to partner with underserved people to improve their own homes and neighborhoods. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Angela Bomgaars,
ABOUT: To prevent abuse, strengthen families and restore childhood. INTERESTED? CONTACT: angela@extremecommunitymakeover.org Michelle Davis, mdavis@denvercac.org
Dinosaur Ridge Morrison // View Profile ABOUT: To educate the public about, and ensure the preservation of, the natural and historic resources of Dinosaur Ridge, Triceratops Trail, and the surrounding areas. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Barbara Farley, barbara.farley@dinoridge.org
Food Bank for Larimer County Fort Collins, Loveland // View Profile ABOUT: To provide food to all in need through community partnerships and hungerrelief programs. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Tasha Aguilar, taguilar@foodbanklarimer.org
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New Hire Feature: Meet Gabby! Gabby Ewell has joined Spark the Change Colorado staff as the Programs Administrative Assistant. Her role will lend support to the Community Engagement Department, the Mental Wellness Program, and the Empowering Aging Department! Gabby has received a Bachelors of Science in Psychology and Outdoor Education, and is pursuing a Masters of Science in Outdoor Recreation Economy. Gabby is passionate about volunteering to make outdoor recreation more accessible to all, and currently volunteers as a Board Sports Mentor to underserved youth. In her free time, Gabby enjoys rock climbing, snowboarding, and plant keeping. When asked about her new role, Gabby shares, "I am most excited to learn more about and support the nonprofit organizations of Colorado and the positive impact they have on our community.
Welcome, Gabby, from all of us at Spark! We are so lucky to have you as a part of our team and look forward to all the exciting work that will be made possible thanks to you. Interested in joining the Spark Team? We are currently recruiting for multiple skilled volunteer positions. Click Here to Volunteer Today! 11
: e d o s i p E n o i t c e n n o C y t i n u m m o C e c i t s u J Social
With our new Community Connection format, we'll be releasing videos highlighting our member organizations leading work in a specified impact area. The first episode will feature Athena Project and Envision:You for Social Justice Volunteering! Check it out on our YouTube Channel! Available: August 26th, 2021 Presenting Organizations: Athena Project & Envision:You!
View past event recordings on our website. Interested in Presenting? We're still recruiting organizations for our September Episode: Hispanic Heritage Month! Contact us today to join us.
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Listings Did You Know? 75% of nonprofit sector employees are women. And, while people of color make up 40% of the US population, only 18% of employees in the nonprofit sector are people of color.
Foster Source Thornton // View Profile ABOUT: To provide relevant training, resources and support to foster parents from a trauma-informed approach, giving them the skills and confidence to spark healing in vulnerable children. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Renee Bernhard, info@fostersource.org
Growing Home Westminster // View Profile ABOUT: To guide children and their families on the path to a brighter future. INTERESTED? CONTACT: David Gonzalez, david@growinghome.org
Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To help homeowners achieve the strength, stability and independence they need to build a better life for themselves. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Laura McRell, lmcrell@habitatmetrodenver.org
Check This Out!
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Human Services Network of Co. Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To create opportunities to improve the quality and integrity of services provided to vulnerable populations. INTERESTED? CONTACT: John Dandurand, john@thenetwork-co.org
Imagination Library of Denver Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To increase access to age-appropriate books and promote kindergarten readiness. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Sara Randall, sara@imaginationlibrarydenver.org
Jovial Concepts Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To support undeserved communities to thrive by offering sustainable solutions for nutrition and hunger. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Kristina Welsh, kristina@jovialconcepts.org
MADD Colorado Statewide // View Profile ABOUT: To stop drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Rebecca Green, rebecca.green@madd.org
March of Dimes Colorado Jeffco Eats Statewide // View Profile Denver // View Profile ABOUT: ABOUT: To fight for the health of all moms To provide weekend food for food and babies. insecure children in elementary, jr. high INTERESTED? CONTACT: and high schools throughout Jefferson Barbara Abbey, County. babbey@marchofdimes.org INTERESTED? CONTACT: Barbara Moore, jeffcoeats@gmail.com
Jewish Family Service of Colorado Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To restore well-being to the vulnerable throughout the greater Denver community by delivering services based on Jewish values. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Nancy Benyamin, nbenyamin@jewishfamilyservice.org
Missed July's Issue? Read it Here!
How to Talk About Race & Volunteerism: Advice From Allies- Read the Full Article Here!
Points of Light Civic Life Today Magazine: The concept of service is multifaceted, taking countless shapes and forms. Service is rooted in the public good, from an AmeriCorps member serving in rural areas; to government officials at the local, state and national levels; to military around the world. This issue will explore the various aspects of service, how you can get involved and how you can support others who are serving. Visit pointsoflight.org
Latest Issue: Service Past Issues:
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Listings Are you interested in helping guide programs that fight poverty in Denver?
The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program Advisory Committee is currently seeking new members. CSBG is specifically seeking community leaders with lived experience of poverty (past or present) to advise on programming that serves individuals and families with low incomes.
Metro Caring Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To meet people’s immediate need for food while also addressing the root causes of hunger and poverty. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Yazmin Castillo, ycastillo@metrocaring.org
Move United Statewide // View Profile ABOUT: To empower individuals with a disability through access to competitive sport(s) opportunities. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Susan Rossi, srossi@moveunitedsport.org
National Multiple Sclerosis Society Statewide // View Profile ABOUT: People affected by MS can live their best lives as we stop MS in its tracks, restore what has been lost and end MS forever. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Brittany McGarry, brittany.mcgarry@nmss.org
More details and the application (available in English and Spanish) can be found here.
Apply Now!
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Ride the Rockies Cortez, Denver, Durango, Norwood, Ridgway // View Profile ABOUT: To improve and enrich the lives of those in our community through support of programs that benefit arts and culture; children and youth; education and literacy; and the provision of basic human services. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Deirdre Moynihan, dmoynihan@denverpost.com
Project C.U.R.E. Centennial // View Profile ABOUT: To identify, solicit, collect, sort and distribute medical supplies and services according to the imperative needs of the world. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Marlo Kirkham, marlokirkham@projectcure.org
Salvation Army Intermountain Division Multiple Locations // View Profile ABOUT: To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Regina Leeson, regina.leeson@usw.salvationarmy.org
Senior Assistance Center Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To promote the self-sufficiency of seniors in Metro Denver and ensure that no senior goes without the necessities of life, including food, shelter, and public services. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Karen Black, kb@seniorassistancecenter.org
Senior Hub Federal Heights, Northglenn // View Profile ABOUT: To advance the quality of life for older adults through advocacy, community partnerships, and a variety of direct services planned to sustain an independent, healthy aging experience. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Angela Caudill, acaudill@seniorhub.org
Spark the Change Colorado Statewide // View Profile ABOUT: To SPARK CHANGE and INSPIRE A MOVEMENT OF GOOD through the power of service, volunteerism, and civic engagement. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Amanda McKee, amckee@sparkthechangecolorado.org
The Action Center Lakewood // View Profile ABOUT: To provide an immediate and compassionate response to those in our community experiencing hardship and offers the resources and services needed to stabilize lives and promotes pathways lasting change. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Carolyn Alexander, calexander@theactioncenterco.org
Did You Know?
The states with the highest rate of volunteering are Utah (43%), Minnesota (35%), Wisconsin (35%), South Dakota (35%), and Idaho (34%).
! t h g i l t o p S r e b m e M Athena Project About: Athena Project's mission is to empower women through the arts to create a world with gender equity where women's voices are amplified. We strengthen the Denver community through developing and showcasing women and girls' artistic contributions, while inviting new audiences into the creative process. We believe that “women'' means many things and can be a complicated term. We recognize that the term “women'' does not automatically include all aspects of the gender spectrum. We want to create a safer space for the expression and growth for all women, non-binary, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. Since 2012, we’ve had the honor of working with over 2,100 women artists, and have developed 54 new plays, given 202 performances, and reached 362,734 audience members - and counting! Our programs include: Plays In Progress Series (PIPs) Since 2012, PIPs provide the opportunity, annually, for several plays by women to be developed/workshopped for audiences. PIPs provide playwrights with dramaturg, director, actors, & minimal design elements. Playwrights receive feedback from artists & audience members that they can use to continue development of their play. The opportunity to have a play roughly staged or even heard out loud is a critical component to new play development. We held a PIP Series weekend virtually on June 5 and 6, resulting in the most diverse slate of actors, dramaturgs, directors, and playwrights in Athena's nine year history! Curating Art for Impact curates/creates entertainment for local organizations, performed at organizational functions to raise awareness about their mission. Past programming includes a flash mob to welcome Michelle Obama in collaboration with The Women’s Foundation and curating entertainment for Womxn’s March Denver 2019 and 2020. And most recently working with K Contemporary art gallery and Holly Porterfield on a program called #ArtFindsUs which brought art to communities last summer. For 2021, we are collaborating with the Center for Colorado Women’s History 16
to bring a fun, specially curated mobile art event to celebrate Women’s Equality Day on August 26. The event kicks off with an 8:30 am breakfast at the ByersEvans House. Musicians and performers will travel to the Molly Brown House, ending the journey at Civic Center Park, with the Cast Iron Queens performing and ending the event at noon. Plan on coming down and joining the fun as the event is free but donations are welcome! RSVP to info@athenaprojectarts.org. Girls Create summer intensive week-long camps for girls in middle school, exploring various art forms such as playwriting, comedy, fashion, and film (in collaboration with Denver Film Society), culminating in final performances shared with friends, family, and the public. Professionals teach, guest artists share their expertise, and mentors from the community guide and encourage – empowering girls to lead, and to affect change in themselves and others through creative learning. #AmpUpArt is a new digital program and collaboration with Colorado Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA), inviting us to GET LOUD about why arts and creativity are essential. By incorporating knowledge and advocacy into our daily lives we can collectively raise the voices of artists in all disciplines in Colorado to recover, grow and thrive. Read & Rant is a monthly book club that reads and rants about scripts written by primarily women and highlights the under-representation of those stories in our cultural landscape. COVID-19 Response: Against the backdrop of a global pandemic, Athena Project found innovative ways to connect and engage virtually with the arts community in 2020. In collaboration with Rocky Mountain College of Arts + Design and fashion designers, we made over 1000 masks locally and nationally to contribute to mask making efforts as the pandemic began, which were donated to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, teachers, and the homeless. Over the summer, we launched #ArtFindsUs, an immersive experience that brought art to the streets, as we felt that providing opportunities to view art safely during the time of Covid-19 would lift spirits and create shared moments of joy within the community. In addition, inequities revealed by the pandemic caused us to look at breaking down accessibility barriers. We prioritized visiting underserved communities, providing access to the arts in spaces not traditionally reached, while thoughtfully creating an inclusive environment through relationship building and intentional outreach. While we know that our communities are forever changed by events of this past year, we also know that art helps find our way through these tough times. Art is change, strength & hope. 17
Opportunities to Get Involved: We're pleased to offer volunteer opportunities in a virtual setting, and are seeking both a volunteer coordinator and several social media coordinators roles, as well as administrative and archival support. Other volunteer roles include team members for Advocacy, Individual Giving and Listening Sessions groups. We connect communities through the power of art and welcome your support --we find that volunteers work best when they are motivated by the cause and uplifted by the work itself. Each of the programs listed above is in need of a champion (or even cochampions)--especially as we continue to modify our programs in a virtual environment. Join us to experience a collaborative grassroots community organization and meet fellow volunteers, artists, and supporters within our vibrant community. Learn more about the variety of volunteer roles available on our website or view our profile on Spark the Change Colorado. We look forward to welcoming you to Athena Project’s family!
Athena Project is a Spark Premium Member! Not a Member? Join Today!
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Listings The Delores Project Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To partner with individuals experiencing barriers to housing by providing safe, reliable shelter and housing coupled with onsite services as they move towards stability. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Stephanie Johnson-Wall, sjohnson-wall@thedeloresproject.org
The Gathering Place Denver // View Profile ABOUT: A community of safety and hope where positive relationships, choice, and essential resources transform lives. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Cortney Mabry, cortney@tgpdenver.org
Upcoming Events & Trainings Community Connection Episode: Social Justice August 26th on Our YouTube Channel
9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance 20th Anniversary Multiple Volunteer Shifts Available Sept. 10th, 11th, & 12th Sign Up Here!
Be Kind to Humankind Week Sept. 25th-31st Read more on page x
Community Connection Episode: Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 30th on Our YouTube Channel
The Master's Apprentice Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To provide urban young men a bridge to the skilled trades through on through basic training, on the job experience and the creation of a career path that will enable transition to financial independence. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Nick Brattin, nick@themastersapprentice.org
The Right Step, Inc. Littleton // View Profile ABOUT: To better the lives of people with disabilities through the healing power of horses. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Christine Remy, boardchair@therightstepinc.org
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Interested in a Listing
or an Ad?
Become a Member Today! Womxn's March Denver Denver // View Profile ABOUT: To raise awareness around issues of oppression that affect women and other marginalized groups. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Suzie Schuckman, suzie@womxnsmarchdenver.org
Volunteer!
s s e n d n i K f o r a e Y A In honor of our dedication to A Year of Kindness, we're sharing monthly resources, stories, and tips of ways to spread kindness in your community! Does your busy schedule make it seem impossible to find the time to give back and get involved? No worries! Check out these daily, random acts of kindness for the next couple months to spark some ideas for easy deeds! Kindness Calendar courtesy of Random Acts of Kindness Foundation
Click Here to Download a Full Sized, year-long Calendar
Do you have an inspiring story, a kind Changemaker to spotlight, or unique ideas on how to spread positivity in your everyday life?
Contact Us Today with your stories, tips, and tricks to be featured in future issues of our Monthly Volunteer Guide! 20
: s s e n d n i K f o r A Yea k e e W d n i k n a m u H o t d n i K e B August 25th-31st Lorraine Jara, Founder of Be Kind to Humankind week, thought of the idea after reading a tragic story of a boater in her hometown who passed away as a direct result of passersby refusing to help. After reading the story, Lorraine shared, "That's when I thought, they have a Be Kind to Animals Week so why not have a Be Kind to Humankind Week. People need people; it’s as simple as that. In order to have the power to make the world a better place, we must first change our attitudes for the better. We can create our own good news if we choose to do so!" "With your continued show of support and enthusiasm, Be Kind to Humankind Week will continue to inspire, comfort and enrich many more lives." And so, Be Kind to Humankind Week was born, taking place for one week each year beginning August 25th. Learn more about Be Kind to Human Kind Week on their website: bk2hk.org/.
If you'd like to follow along with some quick and easy ideas to participate, the days' themes are as follows: Willing to Lend a Hand Wednesday Thoughtful Thursday Forgive Your Foe Friday Speak Kind Words Saturday Sacrifice Our Wants for Others' Needs Sunday Motorist Consideration Monday Touch a Heart Tuesday Share your Be Kind to Humankind Week activities on social media and tag Spark the Change Colorado so we can see the great things Colorado Changemakers are doing to make our communities better places to live and work. #bk2hk #changemaker #sparkchange 21
y a D s e v i G Colorado
Don't Wait! It's Time to Start Thinking About.... Colorado Gives Day December 7th, 2021 It’s more than just a day. It’s a movement that inspires and unites thousands of donors to give where they live and support Colorado nonprofits.
Spark has set a 2021 goal of:
$25,000
to support our efforts to engage Colorado Changemakers to Spark Change and Inspire a Movement of Good through the power of service, volunteerism, and civic engagement!
Find out how you can get involved, this Co Gives Day, and beyond! 22
s e i t i n u t r o p p O r e e t n Volu
Volunteer with Spark! Senior Companion Volunteers Visits The Senior Companion Program engages individuals 55+ years old to realize the independence of older adults in their home and as a team, continue to be vibrant, contributing members of our communities. Mental Wellness Program- Volunteer Therapist Our Mental Wellness Program matches licensed and insured mental health practitioners (or those seeking licensure under supervision) with low income Coloradoans who lack access to mental health care. Mental Wellness Program- Volunteer Clinical Supervisor Volunteer Supervisors needed for licensure candidates and graduate interns. Kind Connections Telephone Volunteer We are seeking volunteers who are looking to connect with people who would like a friendly connection and someone to talk with to combat loneliness during the pandemic. Harvest Pack Volunteer Packing Event Interested in a large group volunteer event? Contact Us today to learn about Harvest Pack! Visit our Volunteer Page here to Sign Up or Express Interest. 23
It’s our job to recruit, connect and recognize those in our community who lead, inspire and are at the heart of the volunteer movement.
: s e c r u o s e R Our Spark the Change Colorado Website Colorado Responds Minisite City of Broomfield Minisite City of Golden Mini-site Board Match Training and Connection Events Volunteer Engagement Training Program Community Connection Events Mental Wellness Program Kind Connection Program Senior Companion Program *NEW RSVP Program *NEW School & Nonprofit Wish List
Spark the Change Organization Newsletter Spark the Change Volunteer Newsletter Mental Wellness Program Newsletter Colorado Responds Newsletter Spark the Change Colorado Blog Disaster Preparedness Resources Service Enterprise Certification CSR Solutions of Colorado EVP & Days of Service Resources Harvest Pack Events Database of Volunteer Opportunities
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LISTING INDEX Organization A Precious Child Aero Angel All-Stars Club Athena Project Audio Information Network of Colorado Benefits in Action Bridges Community Homecare & Hospice Bullying Recovery Resource Center Castle Rock Senior Activity Center Celebrate the Beat Children's Literacy Center (CLC) Clinica Colorado Clothes to Kids of Denver Inc. Colorado Pet Pantry Colorado Talking Book Library Community Resource Center Denver Rescue Mission Dinosaur Ridge Douglas County Libraries Envision:You Extreme Community Makeover Food Bank for Larimer County Foster Source Growing Home Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver Human Services Network of Colorado Imagination Library of Denver Jeffco Eats Jewish Family Service of Colorado Jovial Concepts MADD Colorado March of Dimes Colorado Metro Caring Move United National Multiple Sclerosis Society Ride the Rockies Salvation Army Intermountain Division Senior Assistance Center Senior Hub Spark the Change Colorado The Action Center The Delores Project The Gathering Place The Master's Apprentice The Right Step, Inc. Womxn's March Denver
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Interested in adding YOUR organization to the next Volunteer Guide? All Spark the Change Colorado Member Organizations are eligible for inclusion in our new Monthly Volunteer Guide, in a variety of ways!
Not a Member? Not a problem! Visit our website to start a membership today! Still have questions? Contact us: Kelly Streck Director of Community Engagement KStreck@SparktheChangeColorado.org Madison Taylor Marketing & Communications Manager MTaylor@SparktheChangeColorado.org Gabby Ewell Programs Admin. Assistant GEwell@SparktheChangeColorado.org
Call Call 303.282.1234
Email Email MTaylor@SparkThe
ChangeColorado.org
Follow Follow @SparkTheChangeCO @SparkChangeCO
Visit us online at
Sparkthechangecolorado.org and search through dozens of volunteer opportunities based on location, time, impact area, etc. Register for a volunteer account and sign up or express interest in any of our member volunteer opportunities and activities.
Questions? Contact us!
SPARK THE CHANGE COLORADO'S MISSION IS TO SPARK CHANGE AND INSPIRE A MOVEMENT OF GOOD THROUGH THE POWER OF VOLUNTEERISM, SERVICE AND ENGAGEMENT.
