Day of Action: Volunteers help community nonprofits in Colorado Springs

Hundreds of volunteers signed up across Southern Colorado to make a difference as part of United Way’s Day of Action.

Volunteers’ hands were the main tools used to yank out the weeds in Urban Gardens in Colorado Springs.

“[We’re] preparing a garden for pumpkins, ultimately used for the pumpkin ale, now that Venectucci Pumpkins won’t be used for it. This is for a really good purpose,” said Matt Vineyard as he was picking out weeds.

Ruthie Markwardt lives on the property with three other housemates, she says those extending a helping hand are saving a piece of history.

“Some of the first Europeans to live in this neighborhood were the Italians and they originally came here as miners mining near the UCCS area,” said Ruthie Markwardt.

The neighborhood is known as the Venetian Village and it’s in a former industrial area; it doesn’t’t give a lot of room for gardening.

“That homestead element has over the past few decades kind of dwindled and a lot of the lots have been filled with houses or apartment buildings,” said Ruthie Markwardt.

“This is really a wonderful piece of property,” said Rebecca Glazer.

“It’s super hot today, you’re sweating. This [weather] not bother you,” I asked Josh Hart during his water break.

“No, not at all. I mean it’s really good to get out of the office. I definitely don’t mind getting a little dirty and sweating especially when it’s for a good cause,” Josh Hart.

Volunteers did yard work on two-thirds of an acre as part of Pikes Peak United Way’s Day of Action.

“Several of our roles are to give, advocate, and to volunteer. That’s what we encourage people to do,” said Annie Snead, director of Pikes Peak United Way.

Volunteers graciously gave several hours of their day to keep the Urban Gardens going.

Volunteers helped nonprofit organizations, like the Marian House. The Dream Centers Mary’s Home and the Colorado Springs Food Rescue.