Aspen Public Radio brings back Nonprofit Volunteer Fair for third year

Aspen Public Radio will host the station’s third annual Nonprofit Volunteer Fair with a live radio broadcast, food trucks, and local nonprofit programming.

The event is free and family-friendly, taking place from 2-6 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 27, at the Glenwood Springs Branch Library, 815 Cooper Ave.

Those interested can find out how to volunteer with 30 participating nonprofit organizations working throughout the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys. Attendees will be able to make their way through the fair to earn tickets redeemable for Aspen Mini Donuts’ complimentary donuts and hot or iced coffee, Señor Mango’s mangos on a stick, and Taqueria el Yaqui’s authentic Mexican street food, while supplies.

Complimentary water will be provided by Everybody Water, and all participating vendors will have items available for purchase.

Canned or non-perishable food items can be donated to the Food Bank of the Rockies via one of the available food collection bins.

The event will kick off at 2 p.m. with a series of live DJ sets from Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program. Following the live broadcast, attendees will enjoy a special parade of adoptable pets from Colorado Animal Rescue (C.A.R.E.), and a trivia contest hosted by Cook Inclusive.

Attendees are also invited to join Aspen Public Radio’s outdoor “studio” audience for a live radio broadcast, exploring what it takes to build community, from 3-4 p.m. It will be moderated by Aspen Public Radio Executive Director Breeze Richardson.

An expert panel will speak to how strong communities have a significant sense of purpose, foster connections between residents, and create opportunities for individuals. The panel will include Representative Elizabeth Velasco of Colorado’s House District 57; Erica Snow, president and CEO of Aspen Community Foundation; and Amber Coté, senior director of Statewide Civic Engagement for Rocky Mountain Public Media.

“Building community is critical to APR’s overall wellbeing,” a press release states. “Studies have shown individual health and happiness are inextricably linked with the station’s connections to others.”

Throughout the afternoon, there will also be an opportunity to learn more about the local media ecosystem by visiting with staff from the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, The Aspen Times, Aspen Daily News, The Sopris Sun, Sol del Valle, KDNK Community Radio, La Tricolor, Aspen Journalism, and Aspen Public Radio.