SPARK THE CHANGE COLORADO, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE DENVER VOICE IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE ANNUAL VOLUNTEER GUIDE AS A RESOURCE FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT. #SPARKCHANGE
! s r e k a m e g n a h Calling ALL C Spark the Change Colorado’s mission is to spark change and inspire a movement of good through the power of volunteerism, civic engagement and service. This Volunteer Guide is designed to help you find your passion, a place to serve, a movement to join or the inspiration and courage to start a movement of your own. This is your community. We encourage you to find a place for constructive, healing dialogue and turn those conversations into building a connected, resilient and healthy community. What are you waiting for? Find out who you are and more importantly, who you are destined to become. Join us in our quest to Become Spark the Change Colorado. Need help? Check out all the opportunities and tips within the pages of this Volunteer Guide. Still need help? Spark is here to answer your questions. Give us a call, 303-282-1234.
This is the 25th Anniversary of Spark the Change Colorado serving as your Volunteer Center! 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. Is that you? Do you know someone who lives his or her life in service to others, creating a world for everyone to succeed or has vision to unite us as one community? VIDEO STORIES WANTED - We’d like to hear your volunteer stories. But here’s the fun part. We invite you to light a Sparkler and while the flame is burning, tell us how you are sparking change in a 2-3 minute video. Upload your video to sparkthechangecolorado.org/volunteer-stories.
YOU ARE INVITED – We’re hosting a party and you’re invited! June 4th, 6-8pm at the Butterfly Pavilion. Tickets are available on our website: sparkthechangecolorado.org/25th-anniversary. Celebrate with us!
CSR Solutions, a partnership of Spark the Change Colorado, Community Shares of Colorado and B:CIVIC, is pleased to bring the Civic 50 Regional Survey and Award to Colorado. We invite businesses of all sizes to participate in the annual survey so we can capture good work being done by CSR Programs and celebrate the top 50 companies in Colorado. For more information, please visit this website: csrsolutionsco.org/civic50colorado.
ANIMALS
and special guests surround them on all sides.
Evergreen Chamber Orchestra
Evergreen // evergreenchamberorch.org
ABOUT: The Evergreen Chamber Orchestra’s Colorado Pet Pantry Boulder, Colorado Springs, Conifer, Denver, mission is to share the gift of live music Englewood, Golden, Lafayette, Lakewood, in an intimate setting with a diverse Longmont, Loveland, Ordway, Parker community of musicians and music & Westminster // coloradopetpantry.org lovers. ABOUT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: The Colorado Pet Pantry is a pet food info@evergreenchamberorch.org bank that helps families to feed their 303.670.6558 pets and keep them in their loving homes during times of financial challenges. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers help to sort pet food donations and prep for pet food banks History Colorado at our warehouse in Englewood; Denver, Fort Garland, Leadville, distribute pet food at pet food banks Montrose, Plattville, Pueblo & Trinidad throughout the Front Range and help // historycolorado.org with administrative, marketing and ABOUT: special event needs. At History Colorado we strive to be a TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS? place of belonging for all Coloradans Groups and individuals and to serve as a platform for INTERESTED? CONTACT: community connection. We’re eileen@coloradopetpantry.org committed to Colorado’s diverse 720.441.3111 communities through new engagement programs such as We Are Colorado and we know we’re succeeding when more voices, perspectives and experiences are part of History Colorado.
ARTS & CULTURE Boulder Chamber Orchestra
Boulder // boulderchamberorchestra.com
ABOUT: Our mission is to promote classical musical arts and education to ALL people, through an engaging and profound musical experience. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@boulderchamberorchestra.org 303.583.1278
Denver Architectural Foundation Denver // denverarchitecture.org
ABOUT: The Denver Architecture Foundation inspires people to explore our dynamic city, experience the importance of design to our quality of life envision an exceptional future in Denver. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? We are actively recruiting volunteers for our annual, flagship event – Doors Open Denver (September 21 + 22)! INTERESTED? CONTACT: hello@denverarchitecture.org.
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers are critical to the success of our programs! Our primary volunteer needs occur at Tiny Tots, our public performances for kids 6 and under that happen in public venues around Denver and Boulder. Volunteers are needed for so many tasks, including guest check-in, seating/ushering, managing the instrument petting zoo and DIY instrument-making stations and more. Additional volunteer opportunities arise throughout the year and we can work with volunteers to find meaningful ways for them to have an impact. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: sara@insidetheorchestra.org 303.355.7855
Mirror Image Arts Denver // mirrorimagearts.org
Vinnie Musumecci, Volunteer Regimental Blacksmith at Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center.
year-round, fully professional choir, St. Martin’s has delighted Colorado audiences for more than 20 years with its exhilarating sound, its exquisite blend and its fascinating repertoire, drawn from 1,000 years of choral music. INTERESTED? CONTACT: courtney@stmartinschamberchoir.org 303.298.1970
CHILDREN A precious child Broomfield // apreciouschild.org
ABOUT: A Precious Child provides children in need with opportunities and resources to empower them to achieve their full potential. We serve families throughout eight Denver Metro counties, including Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson and Weld.
ABOUT: Mirror Image Arts uses theatre as language to inspire dialogue, encourage awareness and promote action in order to build a strong, compassionate and empowered community. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? The volunteers of History Colorado are INTERESTED? CONTACT: HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? an important and dedicated group a.rabold@mirrorimagearts.org We have an array of volunteer crucial to our operations. Volunteers 720.295.9648 opportunities to choose from for play an important role in helping to tell individuals, corporate groups, Colorado’s story. Whether it’s greeting churches, youth and community visitors at one of our many Community organizations – all of which directly Museums, working behind the scenes benefit children and families in need. Rocky Mountain of a new exhibit at the History Volunteers are needed on a daily basis Colorado Center or inspiring school Public Media in our Donation Center to help kids to explore our state's history, we Denver // rmpbs.org processes incoming donations and have a variety of opportunities to use ABOUT: prepare them for our store where your special skills to bring Colorado’s Public media organization, both radio families shop free of charge for history to life. and tv. clothing and other basic essentials. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Also, a variety of consistent volunteer HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Children, groups and individuals Special events, phone banks, opportunities are available throughout INTERESTED? CONTACT: administrative, content advocates, all of A Precious Child’s departments. emily.dobish@state.co.us archive work and data entry. Opportunities can include 303.866.3961 receptionist, data entry, store TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? volunteer, helping in the Inspiring Individuals Minds Center, development or INTERESTED? CONTACT: programs support and grant research. susanbarber@rmpbs.org TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS? 303.620.5715 All volunteers, ages 5 and older, are Inside the Orchestra welcome. Denver // insidetheorchestra.org INTERESTED? CONTACT: ABOUT: nichole@apreciouschild.org We present immersive and interactive 303.466.4272 professional orchestra performances St. Martin's in schools and public venues all around Chamber Choir metro Denver. Our performances get Denver // stmartinschamberchoir.org children literally inside the orchestra audiences are seated on the floor and ABOUT: Founded in 1994 as Colorado’s only the musicians, opera singers, dancers
Child Advocates - Denver CASA
process and a tour of the store before starting their day of service.
TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Denver // denvercasa.org Groups and individuals ABOUT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: CASA advocates for the best interests volunteer@clothestokidsdenver.org of abused and neglected children in 720.379.4630 Denver Juvenile Court through the services of specially selected and trained community volunteers from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. INTERESTED? CONTACT: Front Rangers info@DenverCASA.org
Cycling Club, Inc.
Denver // frontrangersdenver.org
ABOUT: FRCC gets kids on bikes through various outlets: outreach rides in Children's Literacy Center disadvantaged neighborhoods; coach Aurora, Denver, Colorado Springs, youth to race bikes (road, cyclo-cross, Fountain, Monument, Woodland Park, MTB) around the Front Range; run the Pueblo & La Junta Bannock St Criterium (state Jr // childrensliteracycenter.org championship) and advocacy for ABOUT: Children's Literacy Center offers FREE bicycling. tutoring to elementary children who HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Join us in supporting outreach rides are reading below grade level. with kids. Coach and mentor kids (bike HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers, age 14 and up, tutor racing experience NOT required). Assist at races. Board and committees. Social elementary children in reading. Media and marketing. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals and Teens Children, groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: pamela@childrensliteracycenter.org scott.christopher@frontrangersdenver.org 719.471.8672 ext. 1 303.668.5158
COMMUNITY Clothes To Kids of Denver Inc.
Denver // clothestokidsdenver.org
ABOUT: Clothes To Kids of Denver provides new and quality used clothing in a store-like setting to Denver area students from low-income or in-crisis families, free of charge. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? During a day of service, volunteers might be asked to serve as personal shoppers in our store. This includes helping clients select clothing during their visit, bagging and tallying items and providing great customer service in order to make the shopping experience pleasant and enjoyable. Volunteers might also be asked to process donations (sort, tag, hang, fold, restock, etc.) in our donation center. All volunteers will be given a short orientation about the CTKD shopping
arc Thrift Stores
Brighton, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Denver, Ft Collins, Greely, Longmont, Loveland, Parker & Pueblo // arcthrift.org
ABOUT: arc Thrift Stores is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and funding programs that serve those individuals living with intellectual/developmental disabilities, with complex and evolving needs. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Retail job duties, rag out, donations, hanging, sorting and customer service. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteer@arcthrift.com 303.231.9222 ext. 1190
Brothers Redevelopment, Inc. Denver // brothersredevelopment.org
ABOUT: Brothers Redevelopment is a nonprofit organization that provides housing and a variety of housingrelated services for the region’s lowincome, elderly and disabled residents. Programs include the annual Paint-AThon, Home Modification and Repair, Housing Counseling, Affordable Housing and Senior Services. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers can help by signing up for the Paint-A-Thon, where teams paint home exteriors, perform light home repairs, minor landscaping and cleanup yards for qualifying residents. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups INTERESTED? CONTACT: chad@brothersredevelopment.org 720.339.5864
Colorado Talking Book Library Denver // myctbl.cde.state.co.us
ABOUT: CTBL provides audio, Braille and large-print books and magazines to Coloradans of all ages who are unable to read standard print material due to visual, physical or learning disabilities. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? CTBL volunteers support our staff in nearly every department of the library from cataloguing and circulation. We have urgent needs in our daily circulation department to help us get the books out to our patrons every day! We need your help! TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: marcotte_t@cde.state.co.us 303.727.9277
Community Resource Center Denver // crcamerica.org
ABOUT: Community Resource Center creates opportunities, tools and strategies to develop Colorado nonprofits and community groups. In our 37th year of operation, CRC effectively runs seven different programs developed to meet the unique needs of nonprofit organizations based both on the Front Range and in rural Colorado, including Rural Philanthropy Days, Colorado Participation Project and the Colorado Grants Guide. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Folks can help CRC in many areas of work. In-office opportunities include, researching funders to keep the Colorado Grants Guide database up-to-date; Salesforce CRM database projects and assisting our Education program with events and trainings. Folks in rural Colorado can help bring training and professional development opportunities to their region by applying to join their Regional Leadership Committee. Check us out! TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: swan@crcamerica.org 303.623.1540
Douglas County Libraries Douglas County // DCL.org
ABOUT: Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection. With nearly 2 million visitors to seven branches every year, visitors are met with beautiful spaces, curated collections, personalized services and a variety of events that offer a premium experience for all. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteer with your local library branch to gain valuable skills, give back to your community and meet people from diverse backgrounds in a fun and pleasant environment. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: aayres@dclibraries.org 303.791.7323
DOVIA Colorado
Kaiser employees sorting donations at Clothes To Kids of Denver for their annual MLK Day of Service. Learn more at sparkthechangecolorado.org/days_of_service.
EDUCATION
Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Larimer painting, yard work or other projects & Greeley // doviacolorado.org identified by the residents. Groups
ABOUT: Our mission is to promote professionalism in the field of volunteer management, advocate for issues concerning volunteerism and provide networking and educational opportunities for volunteer managers. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? DOVIA offers several opportunities to volunteer, including: Serve on the Board of Directors for our amazing, 100% volunteer run organization, Share your talents on one of our committees: Education, Membership, Marketing and Support. These opportunities include social media, capturing stories and pictures, newsletters, community ambassadors and developing a member resource guide. Additionally, help plan, host and facilitate the annual Colorado Conference on Volunteerism (CCOV). TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: doviacolorado@gmail.com 303.949.8612
such as churches, companies, families, organizations and schools may participate and individuals can get involved. Equally important as fences that are built are the relationships being built—between the volunteers and community members, among the neighbors on a block and between the community and resources in their neighborhood. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS? Groups and Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteer@extremecommunitymakeo ver.org 720.235.8847
Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver Denver // habitatmetrodenver.org
ABOUT: Seeking to put God's love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope
INTERESTED? CONTACT: restorevolunteer@habitatmetrodenve r.org Denver // extremecommunitymakeover.org 303.893.3322 ABOUT: Extreme Community Makeover coordinates volunteer teams to partner with underserved people to improve their own homes and neighborhoods. These projects build Jewish Family Service safer environments; cultivate of Colorado community among residents, Boulder & Denver neighborhoods and networks of local // jewishfamilyservice.org resource providers and connect residents to a permanent path towards ABOUT: Jewish Family Service of Colorado healthy, hopeful and stable lives. (JFS) believes in strengthening the HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? community by providing vital services Extreme Community Makeover (ECM) to people in need. Every day, JFS helps is designed to invite volunteers into a people overcome life’s challenges to partnership with residents of specific live fuller, more meaningful lives. Denver neighborhoods to complete home and neighborhood INTERESTED? CONTACT: improvement projects. These projects cgillow@jewishfamilyservice.org 303.597.5000 include graffiti removal, landscaping,
Extreme Community Makeover
Pedal the Plains Denver // pedaltheplains.com
ABOUT: Pedal The Plains (PTP) is an initiative of The Denver Post and the State of Colorado. This annual cycling event celebrates the agricultural roots and frontier heritage of the Eastern Plains of Colorado. PTP is a 3 day tour from September 13-15th, 2019. INTERESTED? CONTACT: ptp@denverpost.com 303.954.6701
Specialty Coffee Association Denver // sca.coffee
ABOUT: The Specialty Coffee Association is a nonprofit, membership-based organization that represents thousands of coffee professionals, from producers to baristas all over the world.
Children's Museum of Denver Denver // cmdenver.org
ABOUT: We believe in kid-powered learning. Every day, we work to open doors for our future leaders, innovators and adventurers to explore, create and learn - on their own terms. Our target ages are newborn through eight years old but everyone can have a good time at the Museum! Our exhibits are hands-on, interactive and totally one-of-a-kind. Last year we served more than 568,000 children and their grown-ups. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? At the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, we work with volunteers to develop high impact opportunities tailored to your interests, skills and passions. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteer@cmdenver.org 303.561.0114
INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteers@sca.coffee
Colorado Young Leaders Denver // coloradoyoungleaders.org
ABOUT: The Center on Colfax Colorado Young Leader’s mission is to develop young people’s leadership Denver // lgbtqcolorado.org skills through our dynamic leadership ABOUT: process; to inspire a sense of LGBTQ Resource Center. adventure through meaningful HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? service-learning opportunities in the We have various volunteer local community and to opportunities throughout the year. create community for young people to TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? live out their discovered skills and Groups and individuals passions. INTERESTED? CONTACT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: jwhite@lgbtqcolorado.org jen@coloradoyoungleaders.org 303.733.7743 720.924.6590
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Join us in supporting outreach rides with kids. Coach and mentor kids (bike racing experience NOT required). Assist at races. Board and committees. Social Media and marketing. SVGD (Single Volunteers of Greater Denver) has provided groups of volunteers for 50- 60 non-profit events annually in the Denver Metro area since 2006. Our areas of contribution include events relating to: Hunger/Homelessness; Animals/Nature; Women/Seniors/Children; Health; Military/Veterans and Other i.e Cultural, Public television & radio, etc. We would appreciate your support! To get actively involved in our community please check out our web site, www.svgd.org , or call 303-455-0244. We put out enewsletters approx. every 10 days and would love to see you at one of our upcoming events!
Colorado Young Leaders
Denver's Early Childhood Council
Denver // denverearlychildhood.org
ABOUT: Denver’s Early Childhood Council elevates the early childhood field through innovative and inclusive leadership, services and solutions. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@denverearlychildhood.org 303.297.1800
Denver Urban Scholars Denver // denverurbanscholars.org
ABOUT: Denver Urban Scholars provides lifechanging opportunities for students to pursue individual pathways to career and college. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Mentoring is a unique opportunity to develop a relationship with a young person and truly make a difference in their life. Once you go through our interview and matching process, we ask for a year-long commitment and that you meet with your mentee around 8 hours per month. This includes drive time to and from your interactions, weekly communication via text/phone/e-mail and DUS monthly workshops which are held on the same night each month at a school in your student's community. When and where you meet is completely flexible and up to you and your mentee. Examples include, a walk around the park, a visit to a museum or the zoo, grabbing ice cream and discussing academic or career goals or going for a hike. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: mentor@denverurbanscholars.org 303.946.7863
Innovations for Learning Denver // innovationsforlearning.org
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? We are actively recruiting volunteers for our annual, flagship event – Doors Open Denver (September 21 + 22)! Volunteers are truly the heart and soul of Doors Open Denver – the event would not be possible each year
ABOUT: Volunteers are paired with a local first grade student for remote, online 30minute tutoring sessions once per week throughout the school year. The volunteer can tutor from their office, at home or wherever there is internet access. INTERESTED? CONTACT: nicole@innovationsforlearning.org 720.484.9044
Metro Denver Partners Denver // metrodenverpartners.org
ABOUT: Metro Denver Partners promotes safe and growth-oriented environments in which youth can develop and flourish through mentoring and role modeling, education and guidance, as well as family family support. Our current programming includes one-on-one mentoring, weekly after school groups for adolescent females and an academic summer program. We also partner with GRASP (Gang Rescue And Support Project) which is a peerrun, intervention program that works with youth who are at-risk of gang involvement or are presently active in gangs, helps families of gang victims and serves as a youth advocate. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? We are currently seeking adult female volunteers who want to get together weekly with a young lady in the Denver area (including Montbello and GreenValley). TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: admin@metrodenverpartners.org 303.777.7000
Rocky Mountain MicroFinance Institute Denver & Aurora // rmmfi.org
ABOUT: RMMFI is a community creating economic and social mobility through entrepreneurship. We help curious people transform into serious entrepreneurs. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers share their skills and expertise to support underresourced entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses. Roles include Business, Finance and Accountability Coaches in our Business Launch Boot Camp; workshop facilitators; technical assistance providers and 1:1 mentors for our program graduates. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteers@rmmfi.org 720.941.5037
STEM Generation Inc DBA Science Fair Fun
Arvada & Denver // sciencefairfun.org
ABOUT: We provide support to families and schools all around creating more inclusive and skills-based Science & Engineering Fair experiences. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Assemble and pack project kits. Prospect Academy TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Denver // prospectacademyco.org Groups and individuals ABOUT: A middle through high school that INTERESTED? CONTACT: provides high functioning students on info@sciencefairfun.org the autism spectrum an academic 720.460.0354 education with the help of therapeutic supports. INTERESTED? CONTACT: tjudd@sparkthechangecolorado.org 720.924.1349
The Learning Source
Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton & Centennial // thelearningsource.org
Resource Area For Teaching Colorado Denver // raftcolorado.org
ABOUT: RAFT Colorado connects thousands of Colorado teachers with the inspiration and affordable resources students need to work, think, innovate and learn creatively. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: kristy@raftcolorado.org 720.242.8833
ABOUT: The Learning Source serves adult learners and families through a variety of programs aimed at increasing educational and career opportunities. Programs include: Family Literacy, English Language Acquisition, High School Equivalency/GED, Adult Basic Education and College & Career Transitions. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers primarily serve as tutors within the classroom, assisting our instructors to provide 1:1 support to learners or leading small group instruction.
TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS? Individuals and groups INTERESTED? CONTACT: debby@thelearningsource.org 303.957.2883
The Providence Foundation
ABOUT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: The mission of Groundwork Denver is info@fostersource.org to bring about the 303.618.4331 sustained improvement of the physical environment and promote health and well-being through community-based partnerships and action INTERESTED? CONTACT: makalah@groundworkcolorado.org 303.455.5600
Denver // theprovidencefoundation.org
ABOUT: The Mentors’ Practicum is a community outreach program that the Foundation facilitates in conjunction with the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. In the Practicum law school students mentor local high school students throughout the academic year thereby helping empower the high school students in developing their life skills. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@provlaw.org 888.977.7768
ENVIRONMENT
WaveWell
Denver // wavewell.org
ABOUT: WaveWell operates on the premise that having a safe source of water and energy represents the best chance that all people can be healthy around the world. INTERESTED? CONTACT: mikayla@wavewell.org 855.WAV.EWELL
Institute for Attachment Denver // instituteforattachment.org
ABOUT: Provides programs and services for children and families who are living with developmental trauma. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Serving on volunteer Board of Directors; helping with fundraisers and with community building and outreach initiatives. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: paige@instituteforattachment.org 303.674.1910
FAMILY Martyred Angels Foundation
Bright by Three
Boulder // martyredangelsfoundation.org
ABOUT: Denver Botanic Garden Our mission is to provide community ABOUT: York Street support to families after the tragic We help all families give kids bright death of a child. & Chatfield Farms beginnings so they can grow into Denver // botanicgardens.org INTERESTED? CONTACT: healthy, happy, successful adults. martyredangels501c3@gmail.com ABOUT: INTERESTED? CONTACT: Denver Botanic Gardens connects jennifer@bb3.org people with plants, especially plants 303.433.6200 from the Rocky Mountain region and similar regions around the world, Night Lights providing delight and enlightenment to Parker, Littleton & Arvada everyone. // nightlightskids.org HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? ABOUT: Volunteers are essential to the success Elevating Connections Provide respite care for children with of Denver Botanic Gardens! Every Denver // elevatingconnections.org special needs and their siblings. year, more than 2,000 volunteers donate their time in all areas of the ABOUT: HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Gardens from gardening and exhibition Elevating Connections is all about Volunteer once a month to be paired up installation to helping with special strengthening families! The sibling with on of our kids for the night. 5:30 events and children’s and adult relationship is the longest relationship -10:00 on the second Friday of the education programs. Volunteers also in most of our lives, at Camp To Belong month. Dinner provided. lead tours, greet visitors, work we help brothers and sisters regain a TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? lost sense of permanency and alongside our scientists on Individuals connection by strengthening their conservation projects and help out in sibling relationships. INTERESTED? CONTACT: the library, gift shop and herbarium. scotts@nightlightskids.org INTERESTED? CONTACT: TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? 720.205.3057 tmacklin@elevatingconnections.org Groups, individuals and teens INTERESTED? CONTACT: vol@botanicgardens.org 720.865.3609 Denver // brightbythree.org
Groundwork Denver
Denver // groundworkcolorado.org
disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and similar disabilities. INTERESTED? CONTACT: mmoore@rup.org 303.757.8008
Spark the Change Colorado is excited to launch the Raising Kindness program! This new and creative program connects school-aged children to community issues in the Denver Metro area through impactful monthly hands-on service learning projects. Hands-on projects provide interactive learning activities with the goal of teaching the power of volunteerism, leadership, and community engagement. To learn more, visit: sparkthechangecolorado.org/ raising-kindness
HEALTH 9 Health Denver // 9healthfair.org
ABOUT: 9Health Fair advances health awareness, providing people with the tools they need to take responsibility for their own health. INTERESTED? CONTACT: 303.698.4455 ext. 2005
Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter Colorado Springs, Denver, Durango, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, Greeley, Louisville & Pueblo // alz.org/co
ABOUT: The Alzheimer's Association provides information and educational programs to all Colorado families regarding Alzheimer's disease and other forms of Foster Source dementia, as well as services geared Roundup Fellowship Denver // fostersource.org toward those living with the disease Colorado Springs & Denver // rup.org and their caregivers - all at no charge. ABOUT: The Association also is the leading Inspiring lasting healing in vulnerable ABOUT: children through confident, trauma- Programs and services for children and non-profit funder of research to find a cure for Alzheimer's disease. informed foster parents. adults who have developmental
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers engage with the Alzheimer's Association in many ways, including: delivering educational programs to the community, leading support groups, raising funds, serving as legislative advocates, providing office support, serving on advisory boards, helping manage events and more. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: covolunteer@alz.org 800.272.3900
therapeutic community that offers a transitional living program for adults who are suffering from severe and persistent mental illness. Our program allows these individuals to restore basic life skills and social well-being, while they learn to manage their illness and transition to independent living. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? We are always looking for energetic volunteers to help with all kinds of things, such as: mailings, yard work, house maintenance, IT, marketing, board members, or other special projects that suit you! TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups, individuals and professionals INTERESTED? CONTACT: marykate@kariscommunity.org 303.355.5546
Benefits in Action
Lakewood // benefitsinaction.org
ABOUT: Benefits in Action seeks to increase March of Dimes the education, access and utilization of Denver // marchofdimes.org healthcare and healthcare-related ABOUT: benefits to the elderly and the March of Dimes fights for the health of underserved in our communities. all moms and babies. We support HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? research, lead programs and provide Volunteers can assist us in fundraising, education and advocacy so that every marketing, education, outreach, data baby can have the best possible start. entry, benefit navigation for clients, Building on a successful 80-year legacy referrals and more! We are always of impact and innovation, we empower accepting volunteers with little to no every mom and every family. knowledge of the healthcare system INTERESTED? CONTACT: (although knowledge helps!). On the 303.305.1232 job training is included. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: 720.221.8354 benefitsinaction.org
Colorado Springs // theroc.us
ABOUT: We improve lives through Research, Education and Community. By funding and conducting Research, we learn more about cannabis and its effects while legitimizing the therapy. Education empowers consumers to select the best products for their individual needs and informs healthcare professionals about options for their patients. Through Community, we spread the truth about cannabis and expand access to those in need. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@theroc.us 719.347.5400
HUMAN SERVICES Covenant Cupboard Food Pantry Greenwood Village // covcupboard.org
ABOUT: We help address Hunger Issues, Collect Food that would be wasted and Distribute Food at our food pantry (for over 23 years)
Mount Evans Home Health Care & Hospice
ABOUT: Provides Home Health and Hospice Care in the foothills and mountain communities. Also coordinates fundraising events and provides community outreach through various support groups.
Pro Bono Mental Health C O L O R A D O S TAT E W I D E Providing resources and referrals to free counseling with licensed professionals for those with barriers to accessing mental health services. Offering volunteers the opportunity to network, access free or low-cost continuing education and make an impact in their communities. Volunteer Opportunities Include: Host Site Supervision Private Practice Community Outreach Interested? Contact:
INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteer@covcupboard.org 720.841.5129
West Jefferson, Park, Clear Creek & Gilpin // mtevans.org
Colorado Visiting Nurse Association
Realm of Caring Foundation
Denver/Statewide Kelly Groen Program Director kgroen@sparkthechangecolorado.org 720 -420-3216 Longmont Judith Partin Pro Bono Mental Health Coordinator JPartin@sparkthechangecolorado.org 720-815-8421 Pueblo Betty Nufer Pueblo Program Manager bnufer@sparkthechangecolorado.org 719-821-2982
Denver Rescue Mission Denver & Ft Collins // denverrescuemission.org
ABOUT: Denver Rescue Mission is changing Denver // vnacolorado.org lives in the name of Christ by meeting ABOUT: people at their physical and spiritual Visiting Nurse Association is points of need with the goal of committed to a continuum of health HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? care in the home and community Volunteer positions needed in the returning them to society as supporting optimal well-being, front office, working alongside patients productive, self-sufficient citizens. and clients (training required), INTERESTED? CONTACT: independence and dignity. leadership positions for our info@denrescue.org INTERESTED? CONTACT: fundraising events, assistance with 303.953.3955 wellness@vnacolorado.org marketing and development. 303.698.6485 TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: lcarpenter@mtevans.org 303.674.6400
Food Bank of the Rockies Denver, Western Slope & Wyoming // foodbankrockies.org
ABOUT: We help families thrive by efficiently procuring and distributing food and essentials to the hungry through our programs and partner agencies. INTERESTED? CONTACT: 303.375.5835
Karis Community
Denver // kariscommunity.org
ABOUT: Karis Community is a non-profit in the Congress Park area of Denver, in operation since 1976. We are a
Karis Community
Metro Caring Denver // metrocaring.org
ABOUT: As Denver's frontline anti-hunger organization, Metro Caring builds equity by nourishing neighbors, providing tools to thrive and fostering community. Metro Caring uses a holistic approach to meet people’s immediate need for nutritious food. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@metrocaring.org 303.860.7200
Severe Weather Shelter Network
Arvada, Englewood, Lakewood & Littleton // swshelternetwork.com
ABOUT: Street’s Hope provides services designed to support and empower people who have experienced exploitation associated with all forms of human trafficking. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers can assist staff with programming needs such as translating groups or sessions for clients whose first language is not English. Also, by transporting clients to and from programming sessions such as case management, clinical hour and/or groups. Volunteers are also needed to support our development staff with events and donor relations. Lastly, we are always looking for groups to provide needs drives and help organize our donations. Our volunteer opportunities are always changing as we specialize our program to our clients' needs, these are our highest needs currently. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: volunteerinfo@streetshope.org 720.420.9951
ABOUT: Severe Weather Shelter Network partners with other organizations and agencies to provide emergency overnight shelter on life threatening winter nights for individuals living on the streets. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? The Action Center Volunteers can help in the shelter sites, provide phone coverage on shelter Jefferson County // theactioncenterco.org nights, drive agency vans on shelter ABOUT: nights, assist with administrative and The Action Center’s mission is to communication support. provide an immediate response to basic human needs and promote TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? pathways to self-sufficiency for Groups and individuals Jefferson County residents and the INTERESTED? CONTACT: homeless. We provide food, clothing, connect@swshelternetwork.com personal hygiene items, household 720.515.9313 items, mail and other services to our participants.
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? We rely on volunteers to provide services to over 80 families per day. Come join our team!
Street's Hope
Denver // streetshope.org
TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals
INTERESTED? CONTACT: kerris@theactioncenterco.org 303.237.7704
The Marion Downs Center
ABOUT: A Little Help is a Colorado nonprofit that connects neighbors to help seniors thrive. To that end, we equip neighbors of all ages to volunteer for direct services to empower the elders in our communities to live interdependently and with a high quality of life.
HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers provide services including ABOUT: The Marion Downs Center provides transportation, yard work, technology culturally sensitive services, resources, and handy help, companionship and education and research to support the caregiver respite among others. needs of individuals who are deaf or INTERESTED? CONTACT: hard of hearing or who have office@alittlehelp.org communication challenges, their 720.242.9032 families and the professionals who serve them. Denver // mariondowns.com
INTERESTED? CONTACT: 303.322.1871
Castle Rock Senior Activity Center Veterans Squaring Away Veterans
Monument // veteranssquaringawayveterans.org
ABOUT: We founded Veterans Squaring Away Veterans (VSAV) (pronounced VeeSave) for the purpose of assisting Service members and their families, with the challenges of transitioning from active service as well as dealing with issues integrating back into the civilian communities. INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@vsav.org 719.339.0365
SENIOR SERVICES A Little Help Denver // alittlehelp.org
Castle Rock // castlerockseniorcenter.org
ABOUT: The Castle Rock Senior Activity Center exists to bring seniors together. At no other time in a person’s life is there as much isolation as during the senior years, as many are living alone for the first time. Meanwhile, at no other time in a person’s life is there as much free time as during the senior years, after raising families and in demanding careers come to an end. The Castle Rock Senior Activity Center exists to see that people are neither isolated nor idle, both which bring down quality of life. The Center brings seniors together, creates lifelong bonds and to provides outlets for their talents and interests, along with helping them develop new interests. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Our primary volunteer needs are for shuttle drivers, Meals on Wheels delivery driver for Douglas County, kitchen help and reception desk volunteers. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals
INTERESTED? CONTACT: jasbridge@crgov.com 720.733.2292
SOCIAL ACTION
Impact Panels, Youth Programming, Court Monitoring and Victim Assistance. We also have several events that rely on day of volunteers. TYPES OF VOLUNTEERS NEEDED? Groups and individuals INTERESTED? CONTACT: co.state@madd.org 303.425.5902
Fidelity employees repaint benches at Fairview Elementary School. Learn more at sparkthechangecolorado.org/days_of_service.
Athena Project Denver // athenaprojectarts.org
ABOUT: Athena Project is the Colorado nonprofit that celebrates and nurtures women’s artistic expression, working actively for equality of opportunity, recognition and pay based on artistic merit alone. Women account for just 25% of the playwrights produced across the Rocky Mountain Region. Only 5% of music producers are women. Only 30% of major American museums have women directors right now. Grow the world by changing the future for women in mainstream arts leadership.
SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM
The Learning Source Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Thornton, Centennial // thelearningsource.org
Make independence a reality
INTERESTED? CONTACT: info@athenaprojectarts.org 303.219.0882
By: Kumasi Aaron for The Denver Channel
Jovial Concepts
Denver // jovialconcepts.org
ABOUT: Jovial Concepts is a nonprofit organization created in 2009 as a resource for community and stewardship. Since its inception, Jovial Concepts has worked with local communities in Colorado to raise awareness towards issues of social, economic and environmental conflict, created forums for their peaceful resolve and collaborated with likeminded organizations to further the effectiveness of current sustainability actions. INTERESTED? CONTACT: 303.578.2569
Neli Rubinov makes a visit to 86-year-old Doba Skomarovskaya’s residence weekly to help her run errands. The pair has been doing this routine for nearly a decade. The two are part of the Senior Companion Program, which pairs volunteers over the age of 55 with seniors who have challenges with daily living tasks. The goal? To help seniors stay independent longer. Rubinov also serves as translator for Skomarovskaya, who only speaks Russian. Skomarovskaya says Rubinov is a lifesaver. Research shows the program is good for volunteers, too. A report sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service found that after two years of serving in the senior companion and foster grandparent programs, 84 percent of older adults reported improved or stable health. Of those who reported depression symptoms at the beginning of the study, 78 percent said they felt less depressed two years later. “I love it. I love to wake up in the morning [and] have [a] place to go,” Rubinov says. “I have purpose in life.”
MADD Colorado Denver // madd.org
ABOUT: MADD Colorado works to support victims/survivors of impaired driving crashes while advocating for laws and behavioral change in order to create a future of no more victims. HOW CAN VOLUNTEERS HELP? Volunteers can assist with our Victim
From appointments to grocery shopping, Rubinov is there to help with whatever the day may bring.
Interested in joining? Visit us online: sparkthechangecolorado.org/senior-companion-program Questions? Contact Laura Kinder, Senior Companion Program Director: 720.420.3217 // lkinder@sparkthechangecolorado.org
WHAT DO YOU CARE ABOUT THE MOST? WHAT ARE YOU ORGANIZING? What are you talking about with your family, friends and work colleagues? What are you watching on news shows? When are you marching in the street? If you’re creating a MOVEMENT OF GOOD and need help, please let us know. We can promote your cause and volunteer opportunities via our website and social media. Become a Member of Spark the Change Colorado – it’s how we can help you the most. To learn more, visit: sparkthechangecolorado.org/about-membership
Tips & Tricks to Volunteering 1
Do your research
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Visit our online database
What are the causes you care about the most? Make sure the organization you volunteer with has a mission that speaks to you.
Spark the Change Colorado has an online database with thousands of volunteer opportunities and info on hundreds of nonprofits.
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Dont overcommit
Balance your life (family, work, volunteering) so that you can be the best volunteer that you can be.
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Learn something new
Volunteering can be a great opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and learn a new skill or meet new people.
Plan ahead
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Consider your skills
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Find a group
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Opportunities can go fast, especially during the holidays, so plan your volunteerism efforts weeks/months ahead.
What can you offer? Think about what skills you have and how they can translate to helping a nonprofit.
Volunteering with your family, school group, company, religious center, etc. are all great ways to get involved.
Have fun
Volunteering can be quite rewarding. Remember to have fun and if you find something you enjoy, volunteer again!
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Call
Follow
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.
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.