10 Charities to Support on Colorado Gives Day

Nonprofits across the Centennial State have struggled during the pandemic, with many organizations seeing a significant decrease in donation dollars, as well as a dip in volunteer signups. That makes this year’s Colorado Gives Day all the more important. The annual day of donations aims to increase philanthropy and awareness for the state’s many nonprofits. You can find more than 4,000 local groups in need of monetary aid or volunteer support on the foundation’s website. We’ve also rounded up 10 of our favorite nonprofits associated with the movement, which you can give back to on Colorado Gives Day (December 7) and throughout the holiday season.

(Read more: How to Be a Philanthropist—Even If You’re Not a Billionaire)

Denver Urban Gardens

This nonprofit currently operates more than 180 community gardens throughout the metro area in order to make fresh food accessible to everyone who needs it. In addition, the organization also offers garden education workshops and youth classes to teach kids all about healthy eating and food growth. For donations and volunteer opportunities (think a day spent planting basil), visit the organization’s website.

Two Angels Foundation

Lifelong Colorado residents Roger and Dawn Mohatt created Two Angels Foundation after both of their daughters died at the age of five following a rare muscular dystrophy diagnosis. A donation to the Mohatt’s nonprofit aids in purchasing adaptive recreational equipment for children with disabilities to help make their lives as active as possible. Donate through ColoradoGives or inquire about volunteer opportunities through Two Angels Foundation.

Extended Hands of Hope

This organization aims to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults who have been survivors of human trafficking or are at risk of being trafficked. From trauma-integrated mental health care to a community mentorship program, the nonprofit helps people feel empowered to lead successful and happy lives. The Broomfield-based team also offers case management and family intervention services for individuals in need. Find out how you can help through the Extended Hands of Hope website.

Servicios de la Raza

Founded more than 50 years ago, this Denver-based nonprofit serves more than 64,000 people every year—mostly in marginalized Latino communities—through various programs and essential services like behavioral health care, employment coaching, HIV and STI services, victims assistance, and more. While the Latino community remains the focus for Servicios de la Raza, the group does offer assistance to everyone, regardless or race, sexual orientation, gender, or age. Learn more, volunteer, or donate through the Servicios de la Raza website.

Bounce Animal Rescue

This Fort Collins rescue is completely foster-based, meaning that no animal in need will see the cold, metallic interiors of an animal shelter. Rather, Fido and Spot are placed in the homes of willing foster families, where they learn basic training and home etiquette. The group also makes sure that no furry companion leaves without a spay or neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and basic -health testing, ensuring someone’s new four-legged friend remains healthy long after rescue. Donate through ColoradoGives to help animals in need, or visit Bounce Animal Rescue online to learn more about how to foster or volunteer.

Denver’s Early Childhood Council

Being a teacher has never been easy, but it’s been especially difficult during a global pandemic that’s required extra hours, a pivot to online learning, and stringent health and safety measures. Founded in 1992 by then Denver Public Schools superintendent Evie Dennis and then mayor Wellington Webb, Denver’s Early Childhood Council aims to empower and facilitate early childhood educators and families. The council offers training programs to further assist teachers, as well as coaching and resources for families of young ones with difficult-to-manage behavior. Learn more and give a donation at Denver’s Early Childhood Council’s website.

Motorcycle Relief Project

When civilian Tom Larson, who has struggled with PTSD in his own life, learned about how mental health issues disproportionately affect veterans, he founded Motorcycle Relief Project in 2014 to spread awareness and create community around some thrilling motorcycle adventures. Veterans can participate in the group’s rides throughout the year and zip through some of the state’s most scenic roads with other like-minded veterans. After each ride, participants also spend time learning basic techniques to help them manage symptoms of mental illness. The Motorcycle Relief Project has also begun hosting rides for women and first responders. Donate and learn more through the Motorcycle Relief Project website.

Denver Indian Center

This cultural gathering place for all American Indian and Alaskan Native communities provides an endless list of services for local Indigenous people, including free legal advice, warm meals, and a workforce program. The center also holds a strong focus on preserving and honoring Indigenous culture and practices, putting on both informal congregation events as well as needs-focused programs dedicated to Native American elders. Visit Denver Indian Center’s website to learn more about volunteer opportunities, donations, or even hosting your own food drive.

Queer Asterisk

This local nonprofit provides accessible and affordable mental health services to queer and transgender communities. Led by queer and trans individuals, and using a gender-affirming and trauma-informed approach, the organization ensures that the services they provide are based off of lived, LGBT+ experiences. Available therapy options range from cognitive-behavioral therapy to wilderness, canine, or equine therapy. Donate to Queer Asterisk through its website or ColoradoGives.

The Master’s Apprentice

The skilled trades field is growing more than ever, yet college and training programs can still carry a heavy price tag. Enter Denver-based nonprofit, the Master’s Apprentice, which trains young adults over seven weeks in a variety of trades, such as carpentry and plumbing. Not only are classes completely free for students, but the budding tradesmen and women also receive a stipend each week, along with a scholarship for tools and books upon the completion of the program. Learn how you can volunteer or donate through the Master’s Apprentice website.

Looking for other Colorado nonprofits to support? Check out our picks from Colorado Gives Day 2020 and 2019.