“The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope.” ― Barack Obama, on involvement with charities

Regardless of your politics, these are great words by which to live these days. The majority of us have much to be thankful for. It’s during the time of crisis and uncertainty that Coloradans have the opportunity and the duty to rise to the call and help those in need.

Please consider making a donation to a charity that will help disadvantaged and vulnerable people in our community access basic necessities. Or, if you have the time and are healthy, volunteer. Our community has many needs, and your talents would be greatly appreciated. Something as simple as organizing food for distribution, making food deliveries to the elderly or helping out in a kitchen will go a long way to help disadvantaged people. Be kind and serve others.

Here are just a few of the organizations in the Denver area that can benefit from your donation. Or if you have your own favorite charity or non-profit isn’t on the list,  leave us a comment below and donate to it now. They will love your for it.

Food Bank of the Rockies

This crucial organization based in Denver obtains food and other personal essentials, and distributes these resources to partner programs. From small faith based food pantries to large non-profits serving hundreds of clients a day, Food Bank of the Rockies serves the entire state of Colorado as well as Wyoming. Additional funds are needed right now to ensure men, women and children facing hunger have nourishing food during this challenging time, and into the future. Your financial gift allows FBR to effectively and efficiently provide food in communities most affected by the COVID-19 virus.

FBR can distribute five pounds of food (four meals) for every dollar donated. Furthermore, 96 cents of every dollar received goes to the food distribution program.

In addition to needing monetary donations, the Food Bank of the Rockies has volunteer opportunities. Best of all, your teenagers can help out during this pivotal time. As long as your son or daughter is 14 and accompanied by an adult, they can make a positive impact in our community. Teens ages 16-17 may volunteer without an adult but will need a signed waiver from their parents.

Volunteers of America

Volunteers of America Colorado is a nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping those in-need to transform their lives. Through more than 50 human service programs, Volunteers of America has impacted and changed the lives of more than 140,000 vulnerable Coloradans each year. VOA services include housing and emergency shelters, hunger and nutrition services, and many other community support programs. There are volunteer opportunities for everyone, including a youth volunteer program for youth ages 11 and up. And, as always, you can make a huge difference with your donation today.

The Gathering Place

Founded in 1986, The Gathering Place is the only daytime drop-in center in the Denver metro area that serves women, transgender individuals, and their children who are experiencing poverty, many of whom are also experiencing homelessness. No fees are ever charged for the programs or services to these individuals. The Gathering Place prides itself on providing much needed services and being committed to helping and advocating for this vulnerable population.

The Gathering Place has had to reduce some of its programs and services during the COVID-19 outbreak but it is open 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (M,W,Th,F) and 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. They provide breakfast, lunch and a snack (no snack on Tuesday) as well as laundry facilities, showers and restrooms, nap bed, mail pick-up, emergency clothing and food bags.

There are many volunteer opportunities available. Most require participants to be 18 years of age but teenagers 16 and up can assist in the kitchen preparing and serving meals, and cleaning up afterwards. And don’t forget to lend your monetary support. With the closing of many Denver restaurants and other service industries, the Gathering Place is anticipating greater demand in the upcoming months.

Denver Rescue Mission

Because of what they do and the population they serve, the Denver Rescue Mission is being particularly hard hit during this time. Social distancing is not an option for them as their mission is to serve the most vulnerable populations by providing shelter, rehabilitation and food to the homeless. Now, more than ever, they need your financial support to help those experiencing homelessness and addiction.

Furthermore, volunteers are desperately needed to help the Denver Rescue Mission serve their population. They are asking if you are healthy (no respiratory issue or other health issues) and under the age of 60 to please give your time.

SAME Cafe

SAME Café is a donation-based, fair exchange restaurant that serves healthy food to everyone, regardless of ability to pay. Their mission is to create community through healthy food access. They have extended their hours from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Saturday, or until their food runs out for the day. They believe in healthy food, community and dignity for everyone.

They are now preparing food for pick-up or delivery. Per the City and County of Denver guidelines, there is no seating.

Additionally, SAME Cafe offers two types of volunteer opportunities: a) walk-in volunteers who exchange 1/2 hour of time for a meal and b) pre-scheduled volunteers who take a shift of 1 hour, 2.5 hours, or 3 hours to help the mission. Please make sure you are healthy and under the age of 60. Volunteers will be put to work prepping food, preparing food for delivery or takeout and doing maintenance. And, as always, they would love your monetary support.

How to Help Restaurants and Bars

On a local level, help support local eateries by ordering gift cards, takeout or getting delivery. Westword has a list of just some of the Denver restaurants that are still operating. It’s always good to call ahead and verify their hours and the food options available. Remember, restaurants are often the first businesses willing to donate dinners for neighborhood fundraisers and charity events.. Now it’s our time to help them out!

Click on this link, The Eater, to learn how to help the broader restaurant industry during this crisis.