ELK is a Denver-based, 501(c)3 organization established in 1996 by two wildlife biologists who saw a growing need to educate Colorado’s underrepresented youth about science, math, leadership, and career opportunities.

ELK was founded with the belief that all young people deserve strong educational support, good role models, and opportunities for positive community action in order to become engaged, productive, and successful members of society.

ELK reaches out to students who have been traditionally overlooked and under-encouraged in science and science-related careers, most notably, youth of color, LGBTQ+, and girls.

ELK opens doors for new opportunities by engaging and mentoring youth through programs that provide a real-life context for learning. Youth experience Colorado’s natural world, increase their academic science skills, become involved in their neighborhoods and get exposure to careers in the field of natural resources. They grow into stewards and engaged members of their communities while cultivating positive educational values to ensure high school and college graduation.

Ways to volunteer

Community Stewardship and Cleanup Projects

Join ELK staff, Board, and youth for a service project at a local park, pond, or along the South Platte. Employees and their families will have the opportunity to improve parks, neighborhoods and communities that need it most.

Lunch ‘n Learn

Invite your staff for lunch and a short presentation about ELK. We would love the opportunity to promote your employee giving programs and/or recruit volunteers who love the outdoors, want to make a difference for youth, and just want to get outside.

Fishing Clinics

ELK staff and youth fishing clinics are a perfect way to get your employees outside and engaged with our youth. These clinics are facilitated by ELK youth who teach the community about fish anatomy, aquatic ecology, and fishing.

Facility Tours

ELK is always looking for ways to connect youth to educational and professional career goals. Your organization can partner with ELK by providing a tour of your company and help us educate youth about the many options they have.

Educational Presentations

Provide your employees the opportunity to share their educational and career experiences with ELK youth at Leadership meetings. ELK students implemented a monthly Friday night Leadership meeting that provides them with an opportunity to bond with other students, develop their leadership skills, explore inclusivity, and discuss how they are going to participate in a positive way within their community. Monthly topics range from guest speakers sharing their career path, current events, college preparation, and discussion of their own hopes and fears.

Learn more: GET INVOLVED WITH ELK