The holidays are filled with cheer, engagement, and an array of activities to celebrate an end of one year and the beginning of another. However, this year, members of our community are struggling, and with increasing COVID-19 regulations, it’s important we all pitch in where we can. Boulder is home to awesome nonprofits and charity organizations that help in a variety of manners. Here are a few ways you can get involved this holiday season and give back to a cause.
Boulder Food Rescue
Each day, countless pounds of food is wasted throughout the country, and our environmentally-conscious town is not exempt. Boulder Food Rescue seeks to save this wasted food and redistribute to areas that are in need. Donate your time as a food rescue courier or volunteer in the distribution center. This nonprofit seeks to “blur the line between those who are being served and those who are serving”, working to save food and thus, conserve energy, gas, and everything else involved in our current food production system.
Out Boulder County
Apply to volunteer with Out Boulder County’s working group. Six individuals will help this nonprofit plan and execute events throughout the year. For passionate individuals who are interested in helping amplify the voices and platforms of QTBIPOC community members through the work of Out Boulder County, apply by November 22.
Brighter Days Dog Rescue
This Boulder non-profit rescues dogs from depraved conditions and kill-shelters, providing medical care, training, and foster homes until they find their forever home. Volunteer with this great organization by signing up to foster a pup l. They provide fantastic support and resources for foster homes and make it their mission to find each dog a home that is loving, healthy, and forever.
Attention Homes
As an advocate for Boulder’s homeless youth, Attention Homes prioritizes helping these individuals get off the street and into a safe, secure environment. This mission takes a huge team effort and the nonprofit can always use additional volunteers for its various activities and events. Attention Homes also has a great need for donated meals and items, so there are a variety of ways to get involved, depending on your availability.
Boulder County Youth Mentoring
Get involved with at-risk youth who need positive mentors in their lives. On average, a child needs 4-5 adults they can trust to grow and thrive. Many children throughout our community don’t have even close to that number. In just a few hours per week, volunteers have the chance to dramatically affect the outcome of a child or young adult’s life by acting as a positive, caring influence. A three-hour orientation is all it takes to get started changing the course for a young person in need.
Boulder Shelter for the Homeless
Since 1982, Boulder Shelter for the Homeless has been providing a plethora of services for an average of 160 home-insecure individuals each year. It acts as a safe haven for those in violent domestic situations and provides opportunities for individuals seeking a way out of homelessness. Boulder residents who want to get involved but don’t have a lot of additional time can help the shelter by donating various items including toiletries, single use RTD tickets, linens, and winter gear. For a complete list of needed items, consult the shelter’s updated COVID list.
An ultimate holiday gift is the gift of your time to one of Boulder’s caring nonprofits. There are ample opportunities that give volunteers the chance to re engage with the community, learn a new skill, or take care of someone or something who has less and is in need of help.