Volunteer with the Outdoor Lab Foundation!
Types of Volunteer Events
TRAILS AND SITE MAINTENANCE
Trail projects include construction and maintenance of the trail networks on our campuses. Construction involves clearing vegetation and creating a sustainable path that minimizes erosion and environmental impact. Maintenance ensures the existing trail remains safe and accessible by repairing damage, clearing debris, addressing erosion, and occasionally rerouting sections to protect natural habitats. This work promotes enjoyable and environmentally responsible outdoor experiences for students and staff.
Site Maintenance projects include painting buildings, removing outdated educational features, enhancing new educational features, fence repair, initiatives course improvement etc. It takes a village to support Outdoor Lab! This work ensures a clean, welcoming, safe and comfortable place for students to learn and grow.
AFTER DARK DINNER AND AUCTION
The Outdoor Lab Foundation throws a party once a year to celebrate the successes of Outdoor Lab! It’s known as After Dark! It attracts 150 passionate community members and brings in about $100,000 annually. This year’s gathering is being held May 2, 2026 at the Denver Marriot West. Fundraising such a large amount for Jeffco’s Outdoor Lab program is only possible with the help of volunteers prepping for and supporting the evening’s activities. Join the volunteer After Dark Committee and contribute in one or more of the following ways:
-Attend monthly meetings January-April to help design and execute an excellent event (virtual and in person)
-Solicit silent and live auction items
-Join us for a craft night setting up name tags and other décor
-Help with data entry and photography to set up our online bidding system
-Volunteer on May 2nd to help with event set up, attendee registration and clean up
DENVER COLFAX MARATHON RACES
Grab your bibs, lace up your shoes and go the extra mile for Outdoor Lab! Participate in the 5k, 10-miler, Relay, Half, or Full Marathon, select Outdoor Lab Foundation as your Charity Partner, and make a difference in the lives of 5,000 6th graders every year! We only need 25 racers to get a free tent at the Charity Village where we will spread the word about Outdoor Lab’s impact. If you are feeling competitive, sign up a relay team and donate your winnings. Involve your friends and family by recruiting sponsors and building support for Outdoor Lab through your personalized Colorado Gives Foundation fundraising page!
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Community events build awareness, foster connections, and engage the community in our mission. Participating in events like Taste of Arvada, Buffalo Bill Days, and the Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival help educate the public about Outdoor Lab’s programs, generate support through donations and volunteerism, and strengthen relationships with local partners. By involving the community, the Foundation ensures long-term sustainability and inspires a shared commitment to preserving and enhancing outdoor educational experiences for future generations.
Interested in Getting Involved?
Email Bre at Breanna.Bashford@outdoorlabfoundation.org and she will set you up with the details! Don't see what you are looking for? Reach out with your ideas and skills - we are always searching for enthusiastic help!
