Volunteering Isn’t Boring. It’s a Hospitality Power Move.

It’s not a last resort — volunteering in Denver’s hospitality scene could actually launch your career.

Wondering how to gain experience, meet people, or just do something that doesn’t feel like a dead-end job? Here’s your sign: start volunteering. Whether it’s helping at a music festival, greeting guests at a museum, or supporting outdoor events in the Rockies, volunteering in Denver’s hospitality industry is anything but boring.

In fact, it’s one of the smartest ways to get hands-on experience, grow your network, and unlock real career opportunities, all on your terms.

Here’s why volunteering in hospitality isn’t just worth your time; it might just change your future.

1. Try the Job — Before You Take the Job

Volunteering is like a free test drive of the job you might want someday. Thinking about a career in events, food & beverage, hotels, attractions, or outdoor recreation? You don’t need a resume full of experience to get started; you just need to show up and get involved.

From setting up stages to greeting guests, helping with food service to supporting outdoor adventure tours, volunteers get thrown into the action—and that’s where the real learning happens.

Bonus: You’ll walk away with transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and time management that apply to any job you take next.

2. Kickstart Your Professional Growth

A ton of hospitality professionals started with volunteering. It’s a low-pressure way to prove yourself, build confidence, and get noticed. In fact, many hospitality employers promote from within and pay close attention to people who take initiative, even if they’re not on the payroll yet.

Your time volunteering now could lead to a real job offer later. It’s not just good karma, it’s a legit career move.

3. Flexible? Always. Boring? Never!

You’ve got school, maybe another job, maybe just life to juggle. We get it. The good news? Hospitality volunteer roles are designed to be as flexible as your schedule.

You can sign up for shifts that fit around your classes or weekend plans, bounce between different roles, or even try volunteering at multiple types of businesses to see what fits. That means you’ll have the freedom to explore different paths without getting locked into one.

Bonus: With every shift, you’re learning more, meeting more people, and opening more doors.

4. Find Work-Life Balance. Even if you’re not “working”.

Volunteering in hospitality can come with built-in perks: free event access, behind-the-scenes experiences, complimentary meals, and the chance to be around fun, high-energy environments.

You’re contributing to something bigger than yourself and enjoying it. You’ll meet new people, boost your confidence, and experience more of what Denver has to offer, all without burning out.

With volunteering, balance means doing something productive and exciting without the stress of a full-time job.

5. Get Paid (Eventually)

Sure, volunteering doesn’t come with a paycheck, but it can absolutely lead to one. When hiring managers already know and trust you, you’re first in line for paid roles, and Denver’s hospitality jobs come with strong starting wages and plenty of room to grow.

Volunteering today can lead to paid opportunities tomorrow. And often, sooner than you think.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Volunteering is more than just “something to do.” It’s a way to fire boredom and fuel your future — whether you’re still figuring things out or looking to break into a career that’s full of energy, opportunity, and upward mobility.

Ready to get started? Our site, BoredomIsFired has all the information you need to get started in hospitality, including stories from people who have been in your shoes as well as resources for writing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, and figuring out what sector will get you paid for your passions.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Many major attractions and outdoor organizations have volunteer opportunities that become available throughout the year. Right now, we suggest visiting the following pages to get your journey into volunteering off to a great start:

• Garden of the Gods
• Denver Center for the Performing Arts
• Denver Botanic Gardens
• Colorado Chautauqua