Every day, Mile High United Way works to meet our community’s needs. Volunteers help make this work possible, dedicating thousands of hours to our mission each year.

Last year, more than 4,100 volunteers gave back more than 27,000 hours. They advised our small business clients and supported families at community events like our Women United Village and Back to School Bash. They prepared taxes for low- and middle-income families and assembled early learning kits for our community’s littlest learners.

Each year during National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the community members who help us create change for Metro Denver families. This year, we are pleased to recognize the individuals and companies demonstrating what it means to be a #CommunityUnited.

Julia Duval Ziegler, Volunteer With Our United for Business Program:

Julia supports small business owners at every stage of development, helping them achieve their goals. Her inquisitive nature helps our clients think outside the box on how to be a successful entrepreneur. We are grateful for all our skills-based volunteers who support our small business community.

“Julia is not just a mentor; she is a transformative partner in my life,” said Sierra Jones, a participant in the Mile High United Way Small Business Accelerator who Julia mentored. “Julia has become my trusted business partner, my honest confidante and the person I turn to in times of need. Her unwavering dedication for helping others success is truly inspiring.”

Strategic Investment Grants Volunteers:

This spring, 90 volunteers dedicated more than 360 hours as panelists during our Strategic Investment Grant application process. Our Strategic Investment Grants provide flexible funding to Metro Denver nonprofits working in our community.

Instead of a written application, organizations share their stories during virtual presentations for Mile High United Way staff and an anonymous panel of volunteers. Panelists provide critical feedback that helps guide the selection process.

“Many of these volunteers go above and beyond their reviewer role,” said Roweena Naidoo, Mile High United Way’s vice president of policy and community impact. “This group represents the best of what’s possible when we center community in our work.”

Southwest Airlines

We are especially grateful to our corporate partners who answer the call year-round to serve our community. Southwest Airlines has been an outstanding community partner, sponsoring National Volunteer Week since 2021, as well as supporting our Children’s Holiday Party, Women United Village and Women United Luncheon. Their staff have volunteered with us in many ways, including our largest-ever bike build in 2023, assembling 135 bikes for children to receive as holiday gifts later that year.

“Metro Denver is not just where Southwest Airlines does business. It’s where our staff lives, grows and thrives. We’re proud to partner with Mile High United Way and give back so that every family can succeed,” said Lexi Muller, Southwest Airlines senior regional manager of corporate responsibility.

Get Involved:

We are always seeking volunteers to help grow our programs and meet the community’s needs. Learn more about our volunteer opportunities and join our work.