Volunteer Opportunities/Donations Needed
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Junior Ranger program | The city of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks Department is recruiting junior rangers for the 2009 season. Youth ages 14-17 are needed for summer work including a variety of trail and natural resource management projects. The program offers two 5-week sessions beginning June 1 and July 6. Participants will work outdoors, learn job skills and explore the environment. Staff positions are also available. Application deadline is April 1. Applications/information: or 303-441-3440.
Luggage collection | Colorado Bag’n Baggage stores are collecting gently used luggage in their stores through the month of April as part of their “Bags 4 Kids Trade-in Event.” Every piece that is brought in will be donated to local foster care children near each store. As a thank you gift to donating customers, Colorado Bag’n Baggage will present a $20 gift certificate to be used on a future purchase. Info: .
Rebuilding event | Volunteers are needed for Rebuilding Together’s National Rebuilding Day on April 25. Twenty-seven homeowner families have been selected to receive major home rehabilitations as part of the Rebuilding Day program. Work for the projects includes new roofs, windows, doors and flooring, plumbing repairs, grab bars, handrails and wheelchair ramps, and painting. There are 80 volunteer spots available on community teams. Sign up at .
Earth Day | Fun Run Volunteers are needed to help with the Catamount Institute’s “Running Off The Grid Earth Day Fun Run” on April 25. Interested parties can contact Jan Eitel at 719-471-0910, ext. 107 or eitel@catamountinstitute.org.
Blankets/blanket-making material | Project Linus is a non-profit organization dedicated to “bringing comfort and hope to those in need through the donation of handmade blankets.” They are seeking donations of homemade blankets and materials for blanket-making. The following types of materials are needed: 100% cotton fabric, flannel fabric, polar fleece fabric and acrylic yarn. Please follow these guidelines when making homemade blankets to donate: blankets should not have buttons or similar decorative items attached to them (choking hazards for young children); do not use paint on the surface of the blanket; keep the blanket in a non-smoking environment and away from pet hair (to avoid giving kids allergic reactions); and do not make blankets out of tapestry, burlap, upholstery fabric, felt, vinyl, wool or wool yarn. (Also, donations of those materials will not be accepted). Homemade blankets and materials can be donated at the following Greeley locations: Kenton Manor, 820 27th Ave.; Fairacres Manor, 1700 18th Ave.; Sterling House, 1999 W. 38th Ave.; and Life Care Center, 4800 25th St. Info: 970-356-3922.
Outdoor gear collection | Homeless Gear is seeking unwanted outdoor gear (backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, coats, boots, socks, blankets, etc.) to distribute to Denver’s homeless population. Gear donations can be brought to the following locations: St. Francis Center, 2323 Curtis St., Denver, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Sunday; or to Urban Peak, 730 21st St., Denver. For drop-off hours, contact the Outreach Coordinator at 303-974-2900. For information on the St. Francis Center, call 303-297-1576 or visit . For information on Urban Peak, call 303-974-2900 or visit . For information on Homeless Gear, visit .
Kids clothing drive | Clothes To Kids recently opened a new storefront in University Hills. Their mission is to provide low-income families a chance to allow their school-age kids to “shop” for a weeks worth of school clothes every 6 months free of charge. The Clothes to Kids store is open by appointment only. Silk Road is helping with the clothing dive by being a designated clothing drop-off point. Silk Road is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Info: .
Donations for at-risk women | Women’s Business Link Dreaming Big project is seeking donations from local individuals and business. Five areas of need have been identified: scholarships, personal services, mentorship, cash and gift cards. Many at-risk women are in need of basic services and items such as hair cuts, bus passes, internet access, diapers, flu shots and vitamins. Info: wendy@womensbusinesslink.org or 720-261-1940.
Coats for Cubs | The Buffalo Exchange is collecting real fur apparel, including trims, accessories and shearling now through April 22. The furs will be donated to The Humane Society of the United States. Used furs provide bedding and comfort to orphaned and injured wildlife. Info: . or call 866-235-8255.
Disaster program | The Aurora Volunteers In Disasters (AVID) program manages dedicated and highly-motivated volunteers who are trained to help their fellow residents in times of emergencies. “Emergency Response Volunteers” receive training and guidance through AVID when a disaster strikes and they are called to respond. AVID is recruiting volunteers for the “Four Wheel Driver Response Group,” who provide critical transportation during a snow emergency. Info: 303-326-8964 or e-mail shackett@auroragov.org.
Website research | Compass of Larimer County is a website containing current statistics, reports and studies about Larimer County. Larimer County’s Health and Human Services Division needs Compass research specialist volunteers and interns to provide research and data analysis to update the Compass website. Specialists set their own schedule and work at home. Apply online at . Info: awolsey@larimer.org or 970-498-6877.
SouthWest Improvement Council | SWIC needs volunteers in several areas. Class Leader volunteers plan and coordinate classes in the Westwood Community Center. Reception Ambassador volunteers will work at the reception desk answering phones and welcoming patrons. Office Assistant volunteers will do computer data entry and assist with staff projects. Fitness Center Monitor volunteers will use the fitness office to monitor open times in the weight room and check out balls for use in the gymnasium. Info: 303-934-4780.
Recording for the blind and dyslexic | The Rocky Mountain Unit of Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D) is recruiting volunteers. Volunteer opportunities include: reading, directing, bookmarkering, tape checking, duplicating, outreach, fundraising and more. Volunteer orientations are at 10 a.m. every Monday and 6 p.m. every Thursday. Info: 303-757-0787or e-mail cskoff@rfbd.org.
Animal shelter | The Denver Municipal Animal Shelter, 678 S. Jason St., needs volunteers to walk dogs and to socialize with cats. Volunteers are also needed to work in the administrative office doing filing, proof-reading Dog/Cat Licenses and assisting with other administrative duties. Items accepted for donation to the shelter are: blankets, laundry detergent, hand sanitizer and treats. Info: Contact Lisa Sanchez at 303-698-5553 or visit .
Animal foster homes | The Larimer Humane Society in Fort Collins needs volunteer foster homes to help take care of animals they receive. Foster care volunteers give temporary off-site care to homeless animals. A volunteer orientation will be at 2 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Larimer Humane Society, 6317 Kyle Ave.Register: volunteer@larimerhumane.org. Info: . or e-mail foster@larimerhumane.org.
Canine Partners of the Rockies | Canine Partners of the Rockies, Inc., (CaPR) needs puppy raisers. The base requirements for puppy raisers include raising the puppy for 18 months and attending scheduled training classes with other puppy raisers. Info: 303-364-9040, Linda@caninepartnersoftherockies or .
Animal sanctuary | Denkai Animal Sanctuary needs volunteers to help feed, water, drain hoses, clean pens and repair fencing for the many animals housed at the sanctuary. Dog-walkers are also needed. Info: 970-897-3122 or e-mail info@denkaisanctuary.org.
Colorado Division of Wildlife | Volunteers are needed to help with activities including: transporting sick and injured wildlife to rehabilitation centers, helping spawn fish, monitoring nest sites for ospreys and eagles, being tour guides at fish hatcheries, State Wildlife Area clean-ups, and a variety of other hands-on projects. Projects are seasonal and vary by region of the state. Info: In southeastern Colorado, including Colorado Springs, Pueblo and Lamar, contact Jena Sanchez at 719-227-5204 or jena.sanchez@state.co.us; in southwest Colorado, including Montrose, Gunnison, Durango and the San Luis Valley, contact Jennifer Kleffner at 970-375-6704 or Jennifer.kleffner@state.co.us; in northwest Colorado, including Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, Craig and Steamboat Springs, contact Linda Edwards at 970-255-6145 or linda.edwards@state.co.us; and in northeast Colorado, including Denver, Castle Rock, Sterling and Fort Collins, contact Mary McCormac at 303-291-7369 or mary.mccormac@state.co.us.
Bird education and science | Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory, with offices in Brighton and Fort Collins, conserves birds and their habitats through research, monitoring, outreach and education. Volunteer are needed to help plan or staff various public events, such as festivals and RMBO’s annual member event. These events are at various locations along the Front Range at various times between April and October. Time commitment is variable and no knowledge of birds is necessary Info: . or 303-659-4348.
Raptor program | Rocky Mountain Raptor Program, based in Fort Collins, needs volunteers. RMRP encourages preservation of our environmental and cultural resources through excellence in raptor rehabilitation, community education and research. Info: 970-484-7756 or e-mail info@rmrp.org.
Railroad museum | The Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden needs volunteers to work in the office, on the track crew, in restoration projects in the roundhouse, in the library and as tour guides. Contact volunteer coordinator David Williams at 720-274-5147 or e-mail david@crrn.org.
Airport ambassadors | Denver International Airport needs volunteers for its Ambassador Program. Candidates must be outgoing and able to work directly with the public, and be physically capable of standing and walking for prolonged periods of time. Prospects must be over 21, pass a background check and complete a day of training. Info: corinne.christensen@diadenver.net or 303-342-2242.
Travelers assistance | The Travelers Assistance Program at the Denver International Airport needs mature volunteers to provide comfort; information and referrals; lending of wheelchairs, car-seats, strollers; assistance for people with disabilities; and provide social services to the DIA traveler. Shifts are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., or 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Flexible schedule and stations. Once a week or twice a month would be great. Volunteers undergo a complete background check. Training is provided. Contact TAP at 303-342-0400 or dentravler@aol.com.
Visiting Nurse Association | The Visiting Nurse Association needs volunteers to assist with their Senior Wellness Clinics. Each month, the VNA conducts more than 80 clinics providing foot care and basic health assessments to seniors across the Denver-metro area. Volunteers assist clinic nurses by serving as receptionists, assisting with client paperwork and scheduling appointments. Also needed are volunteers to visit home-bound patients to help prevent isolation, loneliness and provide respite for caregivers. A series of training sessions on Tuesday evenings begins March 24. Info: Contact Nora Simmons Daly at 303-698-6387 or e-mail VNAvolunteers@vnacolorado.org.
Alzheimer’s residents | Volunteers are needed to spend time with Alzheimer’s residents at Bear Creek Nursing and Rehab in Morrison. Volunteers spend time with residents, talking to them, helping to read and write letters, sending holiday greeting cards, playing cards and more. Info: Karen Fletcher, 303-697-8181.
Elder care | Life Care Center of Aurora, an elder care facility, needs volunteers in the areas of administration and activities, flexible to volunteers’ personalities and schedules. Info: Contact Kim at 720-222-4242 or visit the Center at 14101 E. Evans Ave.
Hospice | Evercare Hospice, 6455 S. Yosemite St., needs volunteers to support people with life-limiting illness and their families. Opportunities include companionship for patient, caregiver support, pet visits, massage/reiki/healing touch, and more. Hours are flexile. Info: Contact Lynette at 303-741-2376.
Hospice | Sol Amor Hospice needs volunteers who are compassionate, have transportation and can attend a comprehensive volunteer training course. Info: 720-200-1036.
Hospice | The Visiting Nurse Association needs volunteers to work with VNA’s Hospice at Home program. Volunteers provide support to patients, respite for family members, child care assistance, bereavement support, fundraising and administrative work. Info: Nora Simmons Daly, 303-698-6387.
Hospice | Affinity Hospice of Life, 2121 S. Blackhawk, Ste. 110, Aurora, needs volunteers to visit with patients. Hospice volunteers are offered a free training program and are involved in a wide range of activities including writing letters, supervising visits with pets, grocery shopping and support for primary caregivers. Info: . or 303-745-3197.
Hospice | Trinity Hospice of Colorado seeks volunteers to offer companionship and support to terminally ill patients and their families. By offering just one hour per week, you can serve as a source of encouragement and compassion by visiting someone in the Denver metropolitan area. Info: contact Jill Fabrizio at 303-799-5096 or e-mail jill.fabrizio@trinityhospice.com.
Assisted living facilities | Denver Regional Council of Governments Aging Services needs ombudsman volunteers to serve as advocates for residents in assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The program requires a commitment of one year. Extensive training is provided. Info: contact Nancy Ferrier at 303-480-5638 or Nferrier@DRCOG.org.
Hospital | Saint Joseph Hospital needs volunteers for the afternoon/evening shifts at its “Welcome Desks.” Volunteers will greet and assist patients and visitors by answering questions; direct visitors to patients’ rooms, department locations and meeting locations; look up patients’ room location for visitors and provide accurate information to visitors as directed by staff. Volunteers should have good interpersonal customer service skills; a positive attitude and ability to maintain a high level of professional composure under stressful conditions; ability to work with little supervision and flexibility in determining and meeting customer needs. Info: Contact Jordan Frost, volunteer coordinator, at 303-837-7667 or visit .
Seniors/finances | AARP ElderWatch needs volunteers to help fight fraud and to protect older adults from financial exploitation. Volunteers are needed to work with the AARP Foundation and Colorado Attorney General’s Colorado Consumer Line in the Denver Call-Center. References and background checks are required. Info: Contact Amy at 720-947-5306 or visit .
Consumer Fraud education | AARP ElderWatch needs volunteers with public speaking experience to educate seniors about financial security, fraud and scams. Documented speaking experiences and references are required. Info: Contact Amy at 720-947-5306 or visit .
Foreclosure Prevention Program | SouthWest Improvement Council needs volunteers to assist with the Foreclosure Prevention and Housing Counseling Program. Volunteer activities include answering phones, returning calls to clients, setting appointments and faxing and filing documents. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one 4-hour shift one day each week. Bilingual volunteers are especially needed. Info: 303-934-2181.
Money management | Seniors Inc., a nonprofit organization that helps people maximize their personal independence, needs volunteers for its Money Management Program – Bill Payer Service. After training, volunteers will go into the residences of low income disabled or elderly persons, at no cost, to assist them with organizing and paying their bills, balancing their checkbook and providing guidance on personal budgeting and related matter. Info: Tim Cusick at 303-300-6933 or tcusick@seniorsinc.org.
Volunteers of America | RSVP, a program sponsored by Volunteers of America, assists over 80 agencies in Denver, Douglas and western Arapahoe counties recruit volunteers. Participants must be 55 or older and can sign up for volunteer positions at partner agencies during RSVP’s “Inside Scoop” meetings. Info: Jan Munoz at 303-297-0408, ext. 13128.
Food donations | The Jeffco Action Center, 8755 W. 14th Ave., Lakewood, needs soup, macaroni and cheese, canned meats, cereal, powdered milk, and baby food and formula for its food bank. The Jeffco Action Center is a nonprofit organization that provides emergency services to needy residents in Jefferson County. Info: 303-237-7704 or .
Food bank | Food Bank of the Rockies needs volunteers in the Distribution area of the warehouse filling orders, packing boxes, sorting products for delivery and more. FBR can accommodate groups from 1-30 individuals for two shifts per day as well as one Saturday morning per month. Info: Contact Olive at 303-371-9250, ext. 236 or e-mail volunteer@foodbankrockies.org.
Medical relief | Project C.U.R.E. delivers donated medical supplies and equipment to people in need of medical relief around the world. Project C.U.R.E. Corps needs groups of volunteers to sort items, load containers and for warehouse organization. Individual volunteers are needed to work as truck drivers, volunteer coordinators, couriers, sorting team leaders, and in procurement and general administration. Info: . or 303-792-0729.
Child assistance | CASA of Adams and Broomfield Counties is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that trains, supports and supervises community volunteers who advocate for the physical, emotional and educational needs of abused and neglected children. Volunteers attend 30 hours of training in order to advocate for children who have been abused or neglected. Info: ., 303-654-3378 or rhea@casa17.com.
Victim assistance | The Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office needs volunteers for its Victim Assistance Program, which provides 24-hour a day, 7-day a week crisis response to crime victims and other individuals involved in traumatic events or persons in need. Volunteers are trained to provide crisis intervention and short-term support. Additionally, the program provides referral information as well as information on victim rights, victim compensation and case status. Following initial training, there are monthly training meetings held the first Monday evening of each month. Advocates sign up for two days a month for either a weekday night 12-hour shift or weekend 24-hour shift. Applicants will be required to submit to a background investigation including an integrity interview, polygraph examination and fingerprint clearance. Successful applicants must attend all academy trainings. Info/request application packet: 720-874-4038 or 720-874-4190.
Victim advocates program | The Broomfield Police Department needs volunteers to work as Victim Advocates. The Victim Services Unit provides assistance and support to crime victims in trauma from violent crime, death, fires and other incidents. Individuals who can volunteer for the 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. shirts are especially needed, as are bilingual volunteers. Training will be from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays March 31 through April 25. Applications will be accepted through March 25. Info: Contact Maureen Testa, 303-438-6429 for application, or download application at ./volunteer/volunteeropportunities.asp.Adult/family education tutors The Learning Source for Adults and Families needs volunteer tutors for its adult classes in the Denver Metro area. Areas of instruction are English language, reading, writing, math and GED preparation. No prior teaching experience is required. Evening (6-9 p.m.) and morning (a.m. to noon) orientation and training sessions for volunteer tutors are scheduled for Feb 9 and 11. For info and training location, contact Tom Oatts, 303-922-4683 or tom@coloradoliteracy.org.
English tutors | Central Denver Language School (CDLS) is a non profit English language program that teaches English to non English speaking adults. The school was founded by a group of volunteer teachers and has been in operation for one and a half years. CDLS’s student population has grown from thirty to over 70. CDLS needs more teachers. If you enjoy interacting with foreign students, in a classroom setting or one-on-one as a tutor, become a volunteer. Training and guidance will be provided. Classes are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings, located near Broadway and 1st Ave. Info: call Bud at 303-520-4466.
English tutors | The Colorado Refugee English as a Second Language program needs volunteers to teach English to recently-arrived refugees. Tutoring takes place in the student’s home. Info: Sharon McCreary at 720-423-4843 or sharon_mccreary@dpsk12.org; or refugee-esl.org.
Natural areas | The City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Program needs volunteers for the following programs: “Adopt a Natural Area,” which involves monthly litter clean-ups in natural areas with flexible time commitment; “Volunteer Ranger Assistants,” serving as a friendly face on the trail to greet visitors, promote safety and assist rangers; “Master Naturalists,” learn how to lead fun hands-on field trips on a flexible schedule; and “other opportunities,” which are scheduled in the warmer months. To volunteer: Contact Susan Schafer, Natural Areas Volunteer Coordinator at 970-416-2480 or sschafer@fcgov.com. Info: visit .
Boulder Creek Watershed Initiative | BCWI needs volunteers to help with forums, to work on StreamTeams to protect local waterways, to write articles and take photographs, to help with general clerical duties and more. Info: . or 303-413-7365.
Trail guides | The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks needs trail guides to visit trailheads and hike trails on OSMP lands six-10 hours per month, providing visitors with information on area features, seasonal changes and local and natural history. Free classroom and field training is provided in four sessions. Info: . or 720-579-4161.
Wilderness environmental service programs | The Rocky Mountain Field Institute is a nonprofit organization based in Colorado Springs, dedicated to the preservation and restoration of wildlands and key natural areas. RMFI accomplishes its mission through environmental service, education and research. RMFI programs are developed around comprehensive, multi-year or long-term projects developed in concert with land management agencies to meet critical preservation and restoration goals.
RMFI | RMFI is also accepting applications from undergraduate students for its 2008 Earth Corps program, July 13-Aug. 11. Application deadline is April 3. Outstanding applicants will be awarded placement in advance of the deadline. Early application, therefore, is strongly encouraged.Info: RMFI at 719-471-7736 or .
Weed district | Larimer County Weed District needs a volunteer to donate about 12 hours a week assisting with general office responsibilities. Duties include answering phones, responding to questions, and preparing mailings and invoices. A six-month commitment is required. Info: 970-679-4552 or ccullins@larimer.org.
Park weeding and trail maintenance | Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton, needs volunteers to work with trained crew leaders to pull, snip and collect noxious weeds and help maintain the hiking trails. Info: 303-973-3959.
Trailwork | The Department of Community Resources and the City of Lakewood’s Regional Parks division needs individuals, community groups and businesses to adopt a section of trail at William Fredrick Hayden Park on Green Mountain. The Adopt-A-Trail Program encourages volunteers to “adopt” a half-mile section to be inspected three times a year. Once a year, each Adopt-A-Trail team will join other teams in the park to clean up and maintain trail sections. Everyone who adopts a section of trail will be recognized with a sticker on the trail mile marker of the adopted section. Info: ., 303-697-6159, or e-mail erinil@Lakewood.org.
Morrison Museum | The Morrison Natural History Museum, 501 Colorado 8, needs volunteers to teach about local fossils and rocks using hands-on exhibits and interactive demonstrations. Training and mentorship provided. Volunteers are also needed to assist with reptile collection care, fossil molding and casting, and information desk/gift shop operations. Info: 303-697-1873 or .
Museo de las Americas | The Museo de las Americas is recruiting and training volunteers for art, programs and events. Contact Kristi Martens at 303-571-4401, ext. 28, or e-mail Kristi@museo.org.
Air and Space museum | Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd., needs volunteers to help with youth and adult education programs offered by the Museum’s Education Department. Volunteers conduct tours, assist with hands-on activities, teach in the flight simulator lab and conduct our Project Pilot course. Project Pilot is a team building course in which students learn the basics of flight planning and then fly a mission in the Museum’s Flight Simulator Lab. Wings offers progressive training for all of these volunteer positions. Aviation experience is a plus, but is not required. Info: Education Department at 303-360-5360, ext. 106 or 116, or education@wingsmuseum.org.
Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitor Center | School field trip program guides and docents are needed to serve as hosts and conduct programs appropriate for school groups, youth and scouting organizations, senior citizen and civic groups at the Department of Energy’s NREL Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden. Info: Ivilina Thornton at 303-384-6566 or ivilina_thornton@nrel.gov.
Zoo | The Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., needs volunteers to assist with special events, to assist zookeepers and to work in the zoo’s membership, education and administration departments. Info: . or 303-376-4894.
Dinosaur Ridge | Volunteer tour guides are needed to teach people about the paleontological, geological, natural resources and history of Dinosaur Ridge. Applicants must be at least 18 and must complete required training. Info: 303-697-3466 or .
Science Museum | The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., needs volunteers to work with visitors in the Museum’s diorama halls, galleries and activity areas. Also needed are volunteers to be guides, interpreters, collections assistants and classroom prep assistants. Info: Volunteer Services Office, 303-370-6419.
Nature Center | Bluff Lake Nature Center, East 30th Avenue and Moline Street, needs volunteer naturalists to work with kids, using games, science experiments and hands-on activities to teach them about nature. No experience is required. Info: Sue Schafer, 303-468-3245.
Butterfly Pavilion | The Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster, needs volunteers to work with visitors and to help in its tropical butterfly conservatory, tide pool, touch cart, and garden areas. Info: . or Kris Desmarais, 720-974-1868.
ONGOING
Telescope viewing | Chamberlin Observatory, 2930 E. Warren Ave., on the University of Denver campus, has astronomy presentations and allows use of the 20-inch Alvan Clark refractor telescope beginning at 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Info: ., or call 303-871-5172 for reservations.
Mining club | The Denver Mining Club is a free (except for purchase of lunch) weekly meeting each Monday except on holidays with a mining-related speaker. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. at the Country Buffet Restaurant, 8100 W. Crestline Ave., Littleton. Purchase of buffet lunch is required.
River table | Visit South Suburban Parks and Recreation’s Carson Nature Center in South Platte Park, 3000 W. Carson Drive, the first Saturday of each month and manipulate a river in the 12-foot stainless steel river table. The table is filled with plastic sand and recirculating water powered by pumps that can be controlled by participants. Visitors can create a city landscape and see how natural river actions affect their creation. Naturalists are on hand from 2 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month to guide individuals and families through the free, hands-on experience. Info: 303-730-1022 or .
GPS, map and compass class | On the second Friday of every month through November, there is a free USGS GPS, Map and compass class at Building 810, Federal Center, Lakewood. Class schedule is: Map and Compass from 9 to 11 a.m. and GPS from noon to 4 p.m. Info/register: 303-202-4689 or e-mail gpsworkshops@usgs.gov.
Science open house | The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, offers a free open house with hands-on science activities from 1 p.m. on the third Sunday of the month. Register: 303-739-2428.
The National Center for Atmospheric Research | NCAR’s Mesa Lab, a working research laboratory at the west end of Table Mesa Drive in Boulder, has a free visitor center that is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The visitor center has a climate exhibit, an eclipse telescope, working supercomputers, a gravity well, and hands on demonstrations of lightning, tornados and fluid dynamics. Info: 303-497-1174 or .
Renewable energy | The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Visitors Center features an interactive exhibit hall and DOE public reading room. Info: . or 303-384-6565.
Children’s workshops | The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., has many children’s workshops and events for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. For a list, call the Children’s Workshop coordinators at 303-370-8225 or 303-370-8347.
Nature programs | The Starsmore Discovery Center, at the entrance of North Cheyenne Canon at 2120 S. Cheyenne Road, has guided “wildlife tracks and signs” walks at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays on the Columbine Trail. Info: 719-385-6086.
Nature movies | Morrison Nature Center, 16002 E. Smith Road, offers a free nature movie, popcorn and hands-on projects at 2 p.m. the 3rd Sunday monthly December through March. Register: 303-739-2428.
Kids nature programs | Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a free program for kids ages 5 and under every Thursday at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. with puppets, stories, activities and outdoor exploration. Info: 303-739-2428 or .
Nature activities | South Suburban Parks and Recreation naturalists lead many outdoor, nature and environmentally related activities and events at Carson Nature Center, 3000 W. Carson Drive, Littleton. For a list of events, visit . or call 303-730-1022.
Nature programs | The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a variety of nature programs for children and adults. For a list of events, call 303-739-2428 or visit .
Wildlife refuge programs | The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, East 56th Avenue at Havana Street, is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. There are various exhibits at the Visitor Center, and free nature programs and refuge tours. Info: 303-289-0930 for times and reservations, or visit .
Natural history seminars | The Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers a series of outdoor seminars on natural history topics in Rocky Mountain National Park. Info: 970-586-3262 or .
Astronomy events | Fiske Planetarium, on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, has a variety of astronomy shows, talks, and family matinees. The evening talks and shows are $6 adults, $5 students with valid I.D., and $3.50 for children and seniors. Saturday family shows are $5 adults, $3.50 children and seniors. Laser shows are $5. Info: 303-492-5002 or .
Public viewing at observatory | The Sommers-Bausch Observatory on the University of Colorado Boulder campus is open to the public for stargazing (weather permitting) every Friday at 8 p.m. Info: 303-492-6732 or .
Junior ranger activity | Colorado National Monument in Fruita is unveiling a new Junior Ranger activity booklet for kids ages 5-12. The booklet is available at the CNM Visitor Center. Once kids have completed the required activities (usually takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete), they can return to the visitor center where a park ranger reviews their work and awards them an official Junior Ranger badge and certificate. Info: 970-858-3617 or .
Kids nature program | “Animal Art and Awesome Activities,” an animal-related art and activity program for kids ages 6-10, is from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. Cost is $10/class. There is a $2 discount if registering for at least three sessions. Register: 720-898-7405.
Kids nature program | “Nature Adventures,” a free parent/child program for kids ages 4-6 and parents, is at 11 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. Nature Center Specialist Dean Bernard tells stories and leads nature activities and games. Register: 720-898-7405.
Mineral group | The Rocky Mountain Micromineral Association, a new mineral group, will meet from 2 to 4 p.m. the second Sunday of each month at the Colorado School of Mines Museum. The group is informal, with no dues, officers or newsletter. Microscopes and free microminerals are available at the meetings. Info: contact Richard Parsons, 303-838-8859 or Richard.parsons@att.net.
SCIENTIFICALLY SPEAKING
TODAY
Family “mystery” hike | Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, is offering a 1-2 mile naturalist-led, family-friendly hike on easy trails at 1 p.m. Families will be given a riddle, puzzle or mystery to solve using word and picture clues found along the trail. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 719-576-2016.
MONDAY
Spring break nature camp | South Suburban Parks and Recreation invites youth ages 6-10 to South Platte Park, 3000 W. Carson Drive, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 23, 25 and 27, for outdoor exploration, nature games, crafts and more. Cost is $129 (District rate $119). Register: . or 303-347-5999.
TUESDAY
Family astronomy program | “Stars and Lasers,” a family-friendly astronomy program, will be at 10 a.m. at the Fiske Planetarium on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Cost is $5 adults, $3.50 child/senior. Info: ., 303-492-5001, fiske@colorado.edu.
Café Scientifique | “The Hesitant Hand: How our Current Economic Predicament Illustrates the Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Markets,” a talk by Professor Steven G. Medema, Department of Economics, University of Colorado, Denver, will be at 6:30 p.m. in the Wynkoop’s Mercantile Room, 1634 18th St. Info: .
WEDNESDAY
Environment forum | The 2009 Aspen Environment Forum theme is “Powering the Planet: Energy for the Long Run.” The Forum will take place March 25-28 in Aspen. There is a lineup of more than 80 speakers who will discuss and debate about energy use, energy economics, natural resources and extraction, cutting-edge technologies, efficiency, conservation, climate change, food production and more. Register: .
Mines distinguished lecturer program | “The Purpose of the University: The Future, Sustainability and Educational Transformation, a talk by Arthur Sacks, Liberal Arts and International Studies professor and director of the Guy T, McBride Jr. Honors Program in Public Affairs for Engineers, will be at 4 p.m. in Metals Hall in the Green Center, 924 16th St. on the Colorado School of Mines campus in Golden.
THURSDAY
Geological surveys program | “Colorado’s Four Great Surveys – An Overview and Discussion of Geological Exploration of the West,” a talk by Emmett Evanoff of the University of Northern Colorado, will be at 7 p.m., followed by an open discussion and display of historic materials from the surveys, at Room 241, Berthoud Hall, Department of Geology and Geological Sciences on the Colorado School of Mines campus. Social time starts at 6:30 p.m.
Astronomy program | Bobcat Ridge Natural Area is offering a free astronomy program, “Orion and Friends.” After a brief program, view the stars with help from members of the Northern Colorado Astronomical Society. Program time and location will be given upon registration. Register: 970-416-2815 or e-mail dprice@fcgov.com.
Family astronomy program | “Adventures Beyond the Solar System,” a family-friendly astronomy program, will be at 10 a.m. at the Fiske Planetarium on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Cost is $5 adults, $3.50 child/senior. Info: ., 303-492-5001, fiske@colorado.edu.
Renewable energy talk | The US Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Pkwy., Golden, is hosting a free presentation, “NREL’s Environmental Performance and Beyond,” at noon in the NREL Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway. Take a sack lunch if desired. Info: .
FRIDAY
Gem and mineral show | A Gem and Mineral Show, sponsored by the Fort Collins Rockhounds Club, will be March 27-29 at Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia St., Fort Collins. Info: .
SATURDAY
“Cookie Burner” hike | Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, is offering an invigorating, calorie-burning 3-6 mile hike on easy to moderate trails at 9:30 a.m. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 719-576-2016.
Star party | Chamberlin Observatory, 2930 E. Warren Ave., is hosting a star party, “The Globe at Night,” as part of this year’s International Year of Astronomy. The party, from 7 to 10 p.m., includes an open house at the observatory and a star counting activity that will help astronomers collect data on changes in light pollution levels. Participants will receive a map of Orion and be asked to estimate the faintest stars visible. An assortment of telescopes will be available for use, including the Observatory’s 26-foot antique main telescope. Info: .~rstencel/chamberlain or 303-871-5172.
March 29
Bird education program | Cheyenne Mountain State Park, 410 JL Ranch Heights, Colorado Springs, is offering a program, “Basic Raptor ID – The Falcons,” at 1 p.m. Learn what hawks live and hunt in the park, and how to distinguish one species from another. Handouts include a fact and picture pamphlet on Cheyenne Mountain raptors. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Register: 719-576-2016.
To publicize upcoming science events geared toward and open to the public; or volunteer opportunities/donations needed notices, mail details at least two weeks in advance to Andrea Labak, Scientifically Speaking, The Denver Post, City Desk, 101 W. Colfax Ave., Suite 600, Denver, CO 80202, or e-mail Scispeak@denverpost.com.
