Events to Attend

Toast: An Evening With Stupid Cancer: More than 72,000 young adults (between the ages of 15 and 39) are diagnosed with cancer each year. Stupid Cancer, a New York-based nonprofit, is the largest charity that comprehensively addresses young adult cancer through advocacy, research, and community. They will host their second annual Denver fundraiser this Thursday at The Art Hotel. The night will feature a raffle, silent auction, and guest speakers, including the organization’s CEO, founder, and brain cancer survivor Matthew Zachary. Open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and plenty of inspiration are included in the ticket price. Cocktail attire is suggested. All proceeds will benefit Stupid Cancer’s mission to support the young adult cancer community to “get busy living.” Thursday, 7–10 p.m.; The Art Hotel, 1201 Broadway; $65–$150

Water for People’s 25th Anniversary Party: Denver-based Water for People is a transcontinental organization working in nine countries to provide safe water and sanitation to those who need it. This Thursday the nonprofit will celebrate 25 years of progress at its anniversary bash, featuring a globally inspired menu, musical lineup, cocktails, and dancing. Don your best formal attire, because the evening is meant to be a joyous celebration of the organization’s impactful work. Signature cocktails will be poured by Kevin Burke, beverage director at Ste. Ellie and Colt & Gray, and will feature Water for People partner Absolut Elyx vodka, which has committed to bringing 100,000 people access to safe water. Event guests can also peruse a pop-up boutique featuring partner products, Water for People goods, and unique artwork created by a Boulder artist specifically for the event. Be sure to secure tickets in advance, as they will not be sold at the door. Thursday, 6:30 p.m. (5:30 p.m. for VIP); Mile High Station, 2027 Old West Colfax Ave.; $125–$250

Causes to Care About

PawsCo: As a 100 percent volunteer-run organization, PawsCo works to reduce pet overpopulation with a three-part approach: spay/neuter services, pet food drives, and adoption. The organization works with Colorado and Western shelters to facilitate about 350 adoptions per year, while also providing spay and neuter services to communities without access to affordable vet care. The operation boasts nearly 300 volunteers, doing everything from website management to short-term pet fostering. “That’s one of the coolest parts of it,” says Tiana Nelson, founder and president. “We try to give each volunteer specific roles so that they feel like they have something they can be a self-starter on and connect with a team.” To learn more about their volunteer opportunities, visit their site. But know this: in whatever capacity you can help, PawsCo will welcome you with open arms.

Feed Colorado Food Drive: In its 16th year, ARC Thrift Stores Feed Colorado food drive has donated 2.45 million pounds of food to Volunteers of America’s Meals on Wheels and City Harvest food bank. This year’s drive, which started on April 1, aims to collect 160 tons of food benefitting Coloradans across the state. More than 25 percent of working Colorado families cannot afford enough food to meet their needs, and this is your chance to make a donation that will have a big impact. This drive is the single largest donation that Volunteers of America receives all year. Drop-offs can be made between April 1 and May 15 at ARC locations across Colorado. View a full list here.