Service in Action Across Colorado: CODCA Students Make an Impact on 4th Annual Day of Service 

Destinations Career Academy of Colorado (CODCA) held its fourth annual Day of Service on Wednesday, March 18, which brought together students, staff, and families across the state for a meaningful day dedicated to giving back. While learning may happen online, CODCA’s commitment to community is anything but virtual. From local parks to animal shelters, students are once again preparing to step into their communities and make a tangible difference. 

Local Impact in Littleton and Broomfield 
This year’s Day of Service featured a wide range of projects spanning Colorado, which gave students opportunities to participate in causes that mattered most to them. In Littleton, students supported the South Platte Valley Humane Society, helping care for animals, and assisted with daily operations. In Broomfield, multiple efforts were put into action, including a coat and food drive led by HOSA students, as well as a community park cleanup at the Broomfield Community Center, where students worked together to keep public spaces clean and welcoming. 

Mrs. Dutton reflected on the experience at the South Platte Valley Humane Society: “CODCA students spent their Day of Service surrounded by wagging tails, tiny paws, and one very large new friend. Eleven volunteers jumped right in to learn all about the responsibilities of being a pet owner, from daily care to what it truly takes to make animals feel safe and loved. The biggest highlights were socializing four adorable chihuahua puppies and meeting Couch, a gentle Great Dane who became everyone’s best buddy and unofficial mascot of the day.”

Mrs. Vasquez shared: “We had sixteen students, a few family members and three staff members help at the cleanup. We collected six full bags of trash! HOSA’s toy drive was also a success receiving numerous toys to benefit families in Adams County. It was a great day of service! 

Service Projects Across Colorado Communities 
Additional service projects took place across the state. In Colorado Springs, HOSA students organized a local initiative focused on community support, while in Pueblo West, students partnered with the Parks and Recreation teams for a hands-on cleanup effort. In Durango, students headed to the Animas River area to assist with a river cleanup, helping to preserve one of the region’s most treasured natural resources. Meanwhile, members of the Agriculture Club continued their tradition of assembling and distributing care packages for elderly community members, extending kindness and connection beyond the classroom. 

Making Service Accessible for Every Student 
As with previous years, CODCA’s Day of Service is designed to be inclusive and accessible. Students who were unable to attend in-person events still had opportunities to participate through independent or virtual service projects, ensuring that every student was able to take part in this statewide effort. 

Building Character Beyond the Classroom 
Now in its fourth year, the Day of Service continues to reflect CODCA’s core belief that education goes beyond academics. It is about building character, fostering empathy, and empowering students to make a difference wherever they are. As students prepare to roll up their sleeves and serve, one thing remains clear: even in an online environment, CODCA students are deeply connected to their communities and committed to creating positive change.