Day of Service: Online Students from Across Colorado Stepped Up to Serve Their Communities at Destinations Career Academy of Colorado 

Each year Destinations Career Academy of Colorado students and staff put away their lesson plans, cancel class sessions, and roll up their sleeves for something much bigger, the annual Day of Service. As a school-wide event, this day was all about coming together across the state (and virtually) to give back to local communities. This year, students showed up in a big way, bringing energy, heart, and dedication to service projects in every corner of Colorado. 

Students had the opportunity to sign up for a wide range of service activities based on location, interests, and availability. Here’s a look at how students made an impact: 

In Loveland, students joined teachers Mrs. Core, Mr. Jones, Ms. Rios, Ms. Vasquez, and Mrs. Schriner at the High Plains Environmental Center. They got their hands dirty planting native shrubs and learning about sustainable gardening practices, restoring the environment one plant at a time. Meanwhile, in Boulder, students teamed up with Mr. Brandes and Mr. Gonzalez for a trail cleanup at the Flatirons. Hiking boots on and trash bags in hand, this group worked hard to preserve one of Colorado’s most beloved natural landmarks. 

In Broomfield, students gathered at the Community Center to clean up public parks and nearby creeks. Under the guidance of Mr. Harkness, Mrs. Krebs, and Mrs. Brewer, they made sure their local green spaces stayed safe and beautiful for everyone. Over in Littleton, the Humane Society of the South Platte Valley welcomed a group of student volunteers (this event filled up quickly!). Led by Ms. Breur, Mrs. Dutton, and Mrs. Gibbons, students cared for animals, prepared for a pet adoption event, and even cleaned walking trails for shelter pets to enjoy. 

In Breckenridge, Mrs. Byrd led a group at the Family & Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC). Here, students helped pack food boxes for families in need, learning how a simple act—like grocery shopping for someone else, can have a powerful ripple effect. Mrs. Jenkins, Ms. Masek, Mrs. Bossmann, and Mrs. Scott hosted students at PAWS Animal Shelter, where they created enrichment toys, bagged pet food for community distribution, and, of course, spent quality time with the animals. Mr. Kitchen and Mr. Stafford led a team in a river cleanup along the Animas River Trail. Students worked together to collect trash, helping to maintain this beautiful and vital area for the Durango community.  

For those who couldn’t make it to one of the in-person events, there were still plenty of ways to get involved. Agriculture Club members delivered care packages to elderly individuals in their own communities. After assembling the packages earlier this year, students spent time connecting with recipients and reflecting on the importance of compassion and conversation.  

Some students chose to complete independent service projects right in their own neighborhoods. Whether it was picking up litter, helping a neighbor, or donating to a local cause, these solo efforts made a big difference, proving that no act of service is too small. Students who couldn’t participate in-person joined virtual service events throughout the day. These activities ranged from letter-writing to organizing donation drives from home, giving every student a chance to contribute, no matter where they were. 

From planting gardens and caring for animals to cleaning up trails and supporting families in need, Destinations Career Academy of Colorado students stepped up in incredible ways during this year’s Day of Service. It was a powerful reminder that even though we learn online, our school is grounded in real communities, and real action. 

Thank you to every student, staff member, and family who helped make this day meaningful. Let’s keep this momentum going, because service isn’t just a day, it’s a way of life.