The holiday season should be a time of giving, reflection and spreading joy. Volunteering as a family not only helps those in need, but also instills values of kindness and gratitude in children. If you are looking for ways to make a difference, here are some kid friendly volunteering opportunities in Denver.
Where to Volunteer with Kids in Denver
The Action Center
The Action Center in Lakewood runs a special holiday event where parents can pick out holiday gifts for their children at no charge. This is the perfect opportunity for teens to give back. Volunteers set up and organize the shop, assist shoppers and wrap presents.
Ages: 16 and up
Denver Public Library
Denver Public Library branches often host crafting events where families can make holiday cards or decorations for seniors and veterans. This is a great way for young children to participate in spreading holiday cheer. Ask your local branch when they are hosting the next event. The library also helps to fulfill volunteer spots across other organizations that need assistance servicing the community. The list is plentiful, and you can find many places in need of the community’s time, money and donations!
Ages: All ages
Denver Rescue Mission
The Denver Rescue Mission provides meals, shelter and support to those experiencing homelessness. Families can volunteer together to serve meals or help organize donations. During the holidays, the Mission often needs extra hands for their holiday meal services, making it a meaningful way to teach kids the importance of compassion.
Ages: 12 and older for most opportunities
Food Bank of the Rockies
Food Bank of the Rockies welcomes families to help sort and pack food donations. During the holidays they experience an increased demand and need volunteers to ensure no one goes hungry.
Ages: 10 and older
Habitat for Humanity
Local chapters of Habitat for Humanity often host family friendly holiday builds and special events to support those in need. They encourage youth participation starting at age five, as it allows children to understand how service to their community can have a lasting impact.
Ages: 5 and older
Local Animal Shelters
The holidays are also a time when animal shelters need extra help. Whether it’s reading to dogs, playing with cats, or donating items on the shelter wish list, your family can make a difference for animals in need of love and care. Find your local shelter and ask for their immediate needs.
Ages: Typically 10 and older to volunteer in the shelter with animals.
Meals on Wheels
America’s aging population is rapidly growing, as is the need to provide seniors with needed meals when they cannot travel or afford to purchase on their own. By volunteering to deliver meals you will be providing needed nourishment for those in your own community. Kids are welcome to help deliver meals with parental assistance, and it is a great way to witness their impact on those who need it most.
Ages: All ages
Operation Gratitude
Writing cards and letters to active-duty military personnel is a simple way for kids to share holiday cheer and show gratitude. Operation Gratitude collects letters, care packages, and homemade items for soldiers deployed across the world. Take the time to see what is needed and spend a day with neighbors and friends gathering and crafting.
Ages: All ages
Project Angel Heart
Project Angel Heart prepares and delivers nutritious meals to individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. During the holidays, families can decorate meal bags or assist with meal deliveries, bringing smiles and holiday cheer to those in need.
Ages: 10 and older for deliveries; younger children can help decorate meal bags at home.
Ronald McDonald House Charities
Families facing illnesses during the holidays can always use a little extra love and compassion as they care for their sick child. Helping with care packages, cooking meals or fulfilling items on wish lists can go a long way for families whose lives have been upended by tragedy. Check out Denver’s local chapter to see how your family can make a difference. There are age appropriate activities for all.
Ages: 3 and older
Volunteers of America
Volunteers of America (VOA) organizes a Holiday Food Basket program, delivering food to families and seniors in need. Families can assemble baskets or deliver them directly to recipients, creating a hands-on experience for kids to see the impact of their efforts. There are also opportunities to “adopt a family” or “adopt a teen” to ensure children in your community receive something special this holiday season.
Ages: All ages (delivery is family friendly)
Tips for Volunteering with Kids in Denver
- Plan ahead. Many organizations fill their holiday volunteer slots early, so it’s a good idea to sign up well in advance.
- Set expectations. Explain to your children why you’re volunteering and what they can expect during the activity.
- Bring the holiday spirit and cheer.
- Enlist friends and neighbors for a bigger impact.
- Be flexible. Understand that community service means pitching in where it is needed most. Be willing to roll up your sleeves and help in ways you may not have expected.
Volunteering as a family is a wonderful way to celebrate the spirit of the holidays. By giving back to the Denver community, you’ll create lasting memories while making a meaningful impact.
