As students head back to the classroom and summer vacations end, several of our local, annual events come alive. Whether you are a fan of art, a supporter of affordable housing, an advocate for education, or just excited to observe the elk rutting season, you will not be disappointed by the number of nonprofit offerings you can add to your calendar.
CAE’s 130 for $150 Showcases Original Works
A collection of 130 works of original fine art, including painting, drawing, prints, photography, sculpture and ceramics, all valued at $150 or more, will be selected by lucky ticketholders at the Center for the Arts Evergreen (CAE) September 13 fundraising auction 130 for $150. Ticketholders will have a chance to preview the exhibit and note their favorite pieces at a special opening in the CAE Gallery on August 22 from 4-7 pm.
The September 13 selection event from 5-8 pm at CAE is a major fundraiser for the organization. Proceeds support CAE’s year-long programming including classes, exhibitions and community outreach. Tickets, which include dinner, are $150 for art selectors and $30 for their companions. Donating artist selector tickets are $100 with no charge for their companion. Donating artists not selecting a work receive complimentary admission.
For tickets and more information, go to
the CAE website at evergreenarts.org.
Speakers for Africa Raising Funds to Help Ugandan Students
The Colorado-based nonprofit, Speakers for Africa, was established by local resident Penny Randell to create a brighter future for students in Uganda. The nonprofit uses its resources to provide infrastructure, educational supplies, food and
athletic programs in distressed schools in Kampala. Penny and her son, Peyton Thomas, have become immersed in the Ugandan culture after more than 25 years of traveling there and living in its villages.
Our community is invited to learn more about Speakers for Africa at its August 31 fundraiser at 6:30 pm at Cactus Jack’s in Evergreen. The event will feature live music by The Bucktones, Cut to the Chase, Lee Pulliam and Reuben Gonzales. Highlights will include a silent auction, art, presentations, and World/African cuisine by Chef Randy Paceres. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at speakersforafrica.com.
Part of the event proceeds will be directed to repair and rebuild classrooms at the Uganda Youth Aid Nursery and Primary School in Kampala. With a student body of more than 1,000 (many of whom are orphans), some children are forced to attend classes in buildings on the brink of collapse.
Mountain Resource Center Hosts September 5 Gala
The Mountain Resource Center is organizing a fundraising gala on September 5 from 5:30-8:30 pm at The Woodlands, 8884 US Hwy 285 in Morrison. The latest event details will be posted on mrcco.org.
Founded in 1990, MRC strives to promote self-sufficiency and to improve the quality of life for individuals and families living in the foothills west of Denver. Located in Conifer, the Center provides multi-generational services for individuals and families who need support. MRC also offers emergency services such as housing and utility aid.
Wild Aware Seeks Volunteers to Promote Safety During Elk Rutting Season
With the rut season arriving next month, Wild Aware, the local nonprofit that educates residents and visitors how to safely coexist with wildlife, is seeking volunteers to be on the Wildlife Watch near Evergreen Lake. Members of the team serve as ambassadors and educators to help visitors experience incredible wildlife viewing while keeping a safe situation for themselves and for the elk. Training for returning volunteers takes place by Zoom on September 12 from 6:30-7:30 pm. New volunteers will be trained on September 13 from 5-6:30 pm at Evergreen Lake. For more information on how to become involved, email [email protected]. The Wildlife Watch will be in effect every weekend from September 20-October 27.
Wild Aware shares these tips for safe viewing, especially as bull elk are more aggressive during the rut: 1) Keep your distance: Always watch wildlife from at least 100 feet away. 2) For a closer look, use technology—a zoom lens or binoculars. 3) Stay informed by speaking with a Wild Aware volunteer or going to wildaware.org for more information.
Support Affordable Housing at Hard Hats & High Heels Event
Blue Spruce Habitat for Humanity will host its annual Hard Hats & High Heels event on September 18 from 6-8:30 pm at the Evergreen Lake House. Attendees will enjoy dinner, beer and wine, silent and live auctions and music. Tickets are $100 per person and are available at bluesprucehabitat.org.
Event proceeds will support Habitat’s mission of helping low-income families realize their dream of safe, decent and affordable homeownership. Habitat supports qualifying partner families through new construction projects and a home repair program, both fueled by community volunteers.
