Colorado Gives Day set to boost thousands of nonprofits

ARVADA, Colo. — The season of giving begins this week as donations open for Colorado Gives Day, the state’s largest annual day of charitable giving. Starting Nov. 1, Coloradans can choose from more than 4,600 verified local nonprofits to support, with the campaign culminating on Dec. 9.

Since its inception, Colorado Gives Day has raised more than $524.6 million for nonprofits statewide. The initiative, created by the Colorado Gives Foundation, aims to inspire residents to give to causes they care about through ColoradoGivesDay.org, a secure online platform that verifies each participating organization’s charitable status.

“Colorado’s nonprofits need our support this year more than ever, and the incredible thing about Colorado Gives Day is that the opportunity to help has never been easier,” said Kelly Dunkin, president and CEO of Colorado Gives Foundation. “When you give through ColoradoGivesDay.org, you become part of a powerful statewide movement to make good happen in our communities.”

FirstBank has served as a presenting sponsor since the program’s launch 16 years ago and continues to contribute to its success.

“Every dollar donated through Colorado Gives Day makes a difference, empowering nonprofits to advance their missions and create meaningful change,” said Kelly Kaminskas, chief operating officer for FirstBank and a Colorado Gives Foundation board member. “FirstBank is proud to support Colorado Gives Day by contributing to a $1 million incentive fund, offering $100,000 in nonprofit prizes, and helping spread the word across the state.”

In 2024, Colorado Gives Day raised $54.8 million from 95,000 donors, with participating nonprofits averaging $12,800 each.

This year’s event features several new components, including three “Light Up the Night” laser light shows in Fort Collins, Lakewood and Colorado Springs on Dec. 2, a $250,000 monthly donation match, and the Good for Business Challenge sponsored by Delta Dental of Colorado. Donors who contribute $100 or more will also be entered hourly into drawings for free Southwest Airlines tickets.

While nonprofits can enroll at any time, the foundation recommends signing up before Oct. 31 to fully benefit from this year’s giving campaign.

“Whether you care about protecting our environment, supporting the arts, education or finding a cure for cancer, you can find the causes that matter to you on ColoradoGivesDay.org,” Dunkin said. “With thousands of nonprofits to choose from, it’s easily the best day to give to support our communities.”