Denver, CO

This last Saturday, June 2nd, I took the time and opportunity to volunteer at a local Kids Fishing Derby in Northglenn. Those of you new to this blog and the Denver area, the city of Northglenn is north of Downtown Denver, about a 15 minute drive.
This event saw about 200 hundred kids cast out into a neighborhood lake and test their luck against pre-stocked fish. All participants received a thank you prize package, were entertained by music, provided snacks, and were able to enjoy some pleasant sunshine on the lake. The grand prize winners (kids who caught the biggest fish) were awarded trophies and their own, brand new fishing pole!
Going into this event I knew that fishing required patience, and volunteer work is usually in that same ‘boat.’ My experience with this event, however, was extremely pleasant, fulfilling, and relaxing. Another helper there, a paid girl in high school, was not able to understand why I was working the event without pay. But for those of us who have contributed time and effort for worthy volunteer causes, the reason to do so is difficult to describe.
In my experience, volunteer work gives a sense of accomplishment and that, at least for that day, you really helped out some people and the community.
As author of About-Denverco.com and as a human being, I strongly encourage readers to actively participate in volunteer efforts this summer. If nothing else, it is a nice change of pace from the daily grind.
This Fishing Derby was put on by the City of Northglenn and for me to volunteer, all I had to do was pick up the phone and call. They were eager to have the volunteer efforts of myself and some friends from our FusBoxe Martial Arts Volunteer program. If you’re looking for volunteer work in Denver-area this summer, think about what would be most enjoyable to help out with, then start making the calls.
I really do think everyone, and I mean everyone, could stand to benefit from some volunteer efforts. Its a community service to the community we are all responsible for.