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This week’s opportunities to give back will have you shaking, shimmying, stirring, and scaring (among other things). Work on your film chops, update your style, or enjoy a cocktail and feel good about every minute of it.
TallGrass Cut-a-Thon: In need of a trim? Stop by TallGrass Aveda Spa and Salon in Evergreen for the shop’s annual Cut-a-Thon. Cuts are $1/minute with 30-minute dry-cut and 60-minute shampoo and styling options. The event kicks off Earth month at TallGrass, which will include $10 donations to upgrade to services like hot stone massages and Vinylux manicures. All proceeds from the Cut-a-Thon will benefit Western Resource Advocates, a nonprofit that helps protect the environment in the west. Monday, 1 to 5 p.m.; TallGrass Aveda Spa and Salon, 997 Upper Bear Creek Rd., Evergreen.
Stanley Film Festival: Horror fans can trek to Estes Park’s famous Stanley Hotel to have a role in this frightful film event. While the flicks don’t start until the weekend of April 30, volunteer trainings kick off April 6 in Denver. Additional trainings are available April 11 in Estes Park, April 13 in Boulder, and April 18 in Denver. Volunteers can opt for behind-the-scenes activities, like set building or manning the filmmakers’ lounge, or simpler gigs like ushering. For every three-to-five hour shift you work, the Denver Film Society offers a free film voucher, good for the festival’s frightening flicks or other DFS productions. Monday, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave.
Rockin’ to Beat the Blues: Raise your spirits and raise the roof with this fundraiser that focuses on mental health awareness. Colorado Mental Wellness Network, which provides resources and support for those struggling with mental illness, will make its first foray into fundraising with a low-key evening accessible for all. Local Southern alt-rock group Ignatius Reilly will provide the night’s entertainment, along with a silent auction featuring giveaways like multi-night stays in Winter Park and a breakfast with mental health strategist Don Mares (which also includes a tour of the mayor’s office). Snack on dishes from Occasions Catering, such as bahn mi and a bruschetta bar. Thursday, 6 to 9:30 p.m.; Mile High Station, 2027 W. Colfax Ave.
CancerCon Kickoff Celebration: Join the fight against young adult cancer with the opening reception for CancerCon, a multi-day gathering of support and medical discussion. The cocktail kickoff benefits CancerCon’s organizing group, Stupid Cancer, a nonprofit dedicated to building community and providing support for young adults with cancer and their caregivers. Indulge in hors d’oeuvres and drinks while listening to guest speakers. Tickets must be purchased in advance of the event. Thursday, 5:30 p.m.; Appaloosa Grill, 535 16th St., #212
Our Neighbors, Ourselves: Art and aid collide in this gallery opening, which benefits Project Worthmore, a program dedicated to helping Denver-area refugees. Political rappers The Flobots ( of “Handlebars” fame) will perform with the 303 Choir, and eclectic hip-hop local Kid Astronaut will round out the night’s entertainment. Check out exhibits from more than 35 artists that speak to “Threads of Commonality,” linking viewers to the perspectives of refugees. Local Mediterranean restaurant Phoenician Kabob and bakery Cake Crumbs will provide dinner and dessert. Saturday, 6 to 10 p.m.; Aurora Cultural Arts District, 1400 Dallas St., Aurora.
Dream Gala: Give a boost to Type 1 Diabetes research with the Rocky Mountain Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s annual gala. This year’s James Bond-themed fundraiser will feature an all-digital silent auction, so you can bid on items like a Roaring Fork Club golf weekend and VIP California wine country tour before even arriving. Dance along to tunes by Colorado cover band Raising Cain, and tuck in to a multi-course dinner which includes dishes like braised short ribs and shrimp scampi whipped potatoes. Saturday, 6 to 9:30 p.m.; Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel, 1550 Court Pl.
Speed Rack: The international tour, benefiting breast cancer charities, comes to Colorado with a serious nod to girl power. Watch local lady bartenders duke it out to see who’s got both speed and skills in this cocktail competition. A team of judges, including Williams and Graham owner Sean Kenyon, will narrow competitors down in a series of heats while attendees sip on their own drinks. Sunday, 3 to 7 p.m.; EXDO Event Center, 1399 35th St.
To submit your event or organization for inclusion in 5280’s weekly “Get Involved” column, email getinvolved@5280.com.