Colorado has a natural beauty and landscape that is unparalleled in the United States. Do hands-on volunteer service and spend time learning from local leaders to hear their vision for the future of Colorado’s natural environment. This is a one-of-a-kind chance to experience conservation up close in some of the country’s most majestic scenery!

Last minute spots may be available. Apply now!

Length Training
Dates		 In-Country
Dates		 Ages Application
Deadline		 Price
Session A 3 weeks

Online training on COVID-19, health and safety, mental health, travel, and AMIGOS history before departure. Leadership and orientation training take place on-site.

June 29–July 19

 15–22 Deadline Passed. Apply for Session B now!

$6,975

Financial assistance is still available! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Centennial Award: Scholarships up to $2,500 are open to students who join this project. Learn more here!

If you deferred your participation from a 2020 program, your fee may be lower. Please contact Krista Boscoe at [email protected] for pricing and application details.
Session B 3 Weeks

Online training on COVID-19, health and safety, mental health, travel, and AMIGOS history before departure. Leadership and orientation training take place on-site.

July 27–August 16

 15–22 Last-minute spot available! Apply ASAP!

$6,975

Financial assistance is still available! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Centennial Award: Scholarships up to $2,500 are open to students who join this project. Learn more here!

If you deferred your participation from a 2020 program, your fee may be lower. Please contact Krista Boscoe at [email protected] for pricing and application details.
  • Session A
  • Length
    3 weeks
  • Training Dates

    Online training on COVID-19, health and safety, mental health, travel, and AMIGOS history before departure. Leadership and orientation training take place on-site.

  • In-Country Dates

    June 29–July 19

  • Ages
    15–22
  • Application Deadline
    Deadline Passed. Apply for Session B now!
  • Price

    $6,975

    Financial assistance is still available! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

    Centennial Award: Scholarships up to $2,500 are open to students who join this project. Learn more here!

    If you deferred your participation from a 2020 program, your fee may be lower. Please contact Krista Boscoe at [email protected] for pricing and application details.

  • Session B
  • Length
    3 Weeks
  • Training Dates

    Online training on COVID-19, health and safety, mental health, travel, and AMIGOS history before departure. Leadership and orientation training take place on-site.

  • In-Country Dates

    July 27–August 16

  • Ages
    15–22
  • Application Deadline
    Last-minute spot available! Apply ASAP!
  • Price

    $6,975

    Financial assistance is still available! Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

    Centennial Award: Scholarships up to $2,500 are open to students who join this project. Learn more here!

    If you deferred your participation from a 2020 program, your fee may be lower. Please contact Krista Boscoe at [email protected] for pricing and application details.

About the Project

Project Type

Pod-based. Maximum enrollment is 17.

 

Colorado Facts

Nickname: The Centennial State

State Dinosaur: Stegosaurus

State Animal: Big Horn Sheep

There are four national parks and 42 state parks in Colorado.

The federal government owns more than a third of the land in Colorado.

Colorado has 53 mountain peaks higher than 14,000 feet. This is most of any state in the U.S.!

The 13th step of the Colorado State Capitol in Denver is exactly one mile above sea level.

 

Wolf Reintroduction

In 2020, Colorado voters narrowly passed a resolution to reintroduce the gray wolf to the state, with urban voters generally pro-reintroduction and rural voters largely against.

 

Outdoor Recreation

Colorado was one of the first states whose governor created an outdoor recreation industry office to prioritize business, outdoor recreation, and conservation as they relate to our natural environment.

 

Centennial Award

The AMIGOS Centennial Award provides financial support to students who are passionate about service and conservation. Multiple scholarships of $500–$2,500 will be awarded this year to volunteers who join the Colorado Project. Learn more and apply here!

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado, USA
Find out more about our programs

Join an online info session!

RSVP HERE

How the West Stays Wild

Protected Areas

Visit some of the most beautiful places in the country! Take in the scenery at Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, the San Luis Valley, Lizard Head Recreation Area, and the Uncompaghre Wilderness. Learn how wild spaces—even in urban areas—can be protected and shared.

 

Outdoor Recreation

Dig into the benefits and challenges of building an industry around activities like hunting, fishing, and mountain sports. Consider equity in access to the outdoors and how to make our shared, protected spaces available to all.

 

Road Tripping on the Western Slope

Head out with a group of your newest friends to explore Colorado together! Spend a night under the stars at Great Sand Dunes National Park, watch the sunset over the Rocky Mountains, and find out what staying in a yurt is all about.

Program Pillars

Ethical Service

Learn how to create ethical service initiatives by working with–not for–a community, engaging local organizations and partners, and evaluating the impact of your work. AMIGOS works with trusted local partners that are passionate and committed to working with our volunteers on community service projects.

Cultural Humility

Cultural humility is a process of both self-reflection about your own culture as well as learning about other cultures. You will examine your own beliefs and cultural identity and gain an understanding of how structural racism has impacted societies and the roles that communities can take to lead systemic change.

Leadership

Learn, grow, and discover your leadership potential! Explore your sense of purpose and start to establish your personal goals and values through introspection and inquiry.

Where You'll Stay

Session A

Simple Lodge & Hostel, San Luis Valley, 7/2-7/8

Simple Lodge is in the heart of Salida and only a block from the Arkansas River that runs through town. Its open indoor and outdoor spaces make it a perfect place to connect and build strong relationships. It has two dorm-style rooms with bunk beds in addition to two private rooms and a communal kitchen, living room, and dining room.

Gunnison Basin, 7/10-7/16

This classic Colorado lodge is nestled in the San Juan National Forest and has over 40 acres of land to explore. Inside the lodge, there are dormitories and private rooms as well as large meeting spaces. On the property, there are firepits, volleyball courts, basketball courts, horseshoe, and plenty of places to gather.

 

Session B

Joyful Journey Hot Springs, San Luis Valley, 7/31-8/6

Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa is an oasis that lies in the middle of the San Luis Valley surrounded by mountain views. There are three different hot spring pools, a greenhouse, a labyrinth, and many outdoor spaces to enjoy. The accommodations we will be using include their yurt village, lodge rooms, and casita.

Elk Point Lodge, Gunnison Basin, 8/9-8/15

This group of cabins sits at the edge of Vallecito Reservoir, which is about 45 minutes away from Durango. Vallecito Reservoir is a secluded area in the San Juan National Forest and has plenty of options for outdoor recreation. Each of the cabins has a sleeping area, full kitchen, and bathroom in addition to outdoor spaces where the group can come together.

A Day in the Life

Days 1–6 (Quarantine Period)

Wake up and have breakfast in small groups

Morning: Hike nearby trails and practice your orienteering skills!

Afternoon: Fun group activities and environmental workshops

After dinner: Free time, fun and socially-distanced activities, group meetings

Day 7–End of Project

Morning: wake up and eat breakfast. Take part in intercultural and leadership activities.

After lunch: activities like tours, hearing from guest speakers like environmental advocates and state officials, student-led actitivies

After dinner: group activities, free time, relax!

Apply now!

Click Here

Why Choose AMIGOS?

Have an Adventure

Travel to must-see spots in the state! You’ll travel as a group to experience unique destinations Colorado has to offer, like protected areas, mountains, rivers, and historical sites. You’ll get to see these places from the distinct perspective of someone who is learning the context and history of the area. Volunteer with local organizations and earn 40 service hours. Plus, you’ll bond with their fellow volunteers and have fun!

Travel with Trust

AMIGOS is the industry leader in health and safety management. Our staff is prepared to help you with any situation that may arise. Each volunteer receives a personalized emergency plan, as well as support from local staff teams and a professional 24-hour On-Call Safety Team of travel specialists, doctors, and mental health specialists. A Health and Wellness Coordinator is on staff with the group throughout the duration of their stay. AMIGOS also has an established network of vetted medical clinics and hospitals throughout the region.

Training for AMIGOS and Beyond

Prepare for AMIGOS through guided training in topics like: cultural humility, health and safety, emotional intelligence, travel safety, leadership, and team building.

Upon arrival in the field, you’ll start area-specific training with your pod. During your time with AMIGOS, you’ll meet regularly with an AMIGOS staff member who serves as your mentor.

AMIGOS has just been an opportunity for me to grow as a person and become the best version of me possible. That’s pretty much why I came here—just to grow and have a great experience and learn more about myself and other cultures. It’s just been fantastic.

—Lex, AMIGOS Volunteer

Program Requirements
  • Meet the health criteria for AMIGOS participation and follow the mental health procedures if necessary.
  • Receive required immunizations and medications
  • Be age 15–22 on the project start date
Resources
Apply Now

Field Notes

Western Colorado: Meet Your Staff Team!

Colorado, U.S.


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amigos_americas

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amigos_americas

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Jun 21

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Meet Lauren, the Project Director on the Nueva Segovia y Leon, Nicaragua project this summer! "My name is Lauren and I am the Project Director for the summer 2021 program in Nicaragua. I am originally from Boston, but I earned my B.A. in Spanish at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. I really enjoy working with young adults, as well as exposing myself to new cultures. As such, I am looking forward to a meaningful and exciting summer in Nicaragua with all of our volunteers. ¡Hola! Me llamo Lauren, y soy la Directora del Proyecto en Nicaragua este verano. Soy de Boston, y hice mi bachillerato en Español en el College of Charleston. Además de viajar, me gusta mucho apoyar a adultos jóvenes a desarrollar sus capacidades y compartir mi pasión por viajar. Espero poder pasar un verano significativo con todos los voluntarios."

Meet Lauren, the Project Director on the Nueva Segovia y Leon, Nicaragua project this summer!

"My name is Lauren and I am the Project Director for the summer 2021 program in Nicaragua. I am originally from Boston, but I earned my B.A. in Spanish at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. I really enjoy working with young adults, as well as exposing myself to new cultures. As such, I am looking forward to a meaningful and exciting summer in Nicaragua with all of our volunteers.

¡Hola! Me llamo Lauren, y soy la Directora del Proyecto en Nicaragua este verano. Soy de Boston, y hice mi bachillerato en Español en el College of Charleston. Además de viajar, me gusta mucho apoyar a adultos jóvenes a desarrollar sus capacidades y compartir mi pasión por viajar. Espero poder pasar un verano significativo con todos los voluntarios." ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 18

Open
Today, our staff are observing Juneteenth as a paid holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States and was long overdue for federal recognition as a national holiday. AMIGOS believes honoring this holiday is one small step towards creating a more just and equitable society for everyone. We encourage everyone to spend this time in reflection, education, and action in service of racial justice. Below, we have included a link to resources to celebrate, understand the history, and recognize the importance of commemorating this holiday. Sam Collins, co-chair of the Juneteenth Legacy Project says: "Juneteenth celebrates the evolution of our country to a more perfect union. We were not perfect in 1528, 1619, 1776, 1865 — or even today in 2021. But hopefully by studying this history and expanding the narrative to tell a more complete story of what happened, we will get a truer sense of our American history." Additional resources are outlined at the link in our bio. Image: Juneteenth Flag designed by activist Ben Haith in 1997

Today, our staff are observing Juneteenth as a paid holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States and was long overdue for federal recognition as a national holiday. AMIGOS believes honoring this holiday is one small step towards creating a more just and equitable society for everyone. We encourage everyone to spend this time in reflection, education, and action in service of racial justice. Below, we have included a link to resources to celebrate, understand the history, and recognize the importance of commemorating this holiday.

Sam Collins, co-chair of the Juneteenth Legacy Project says: "Juneteenth celebrates the evolution of our country to a more perfect union. We were not perfect in 1528, 1619, 1776, 1865 — or even today in 2021. But hopefully by studying this history and expanding the narrative to tell a more complete story of what happened, we will get a truer sense of our American history."

Additional resources are outlined at the link in our bio.

Image: Juneteenth Flag designed by activist Ben Haith in 1997 ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 17

Open
Looking for a gap program? Applications are open for our Gap Program in Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Colorado! Emma, an AMIGOS Gap Program volunteer, says, "The things you will learn and experience, the relationships you will build, and the joy and love you will feel are irreplaceable and will remain with you through the rest of your life." Explore our programs at the link in our bio!

Looking for a gap program? Applications are open for our Gap Program in Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Colorado!

Emma, an AMIGOS Gap Program volunteer, says, "The things you will learn and experience, the relationships you will build, and the joy and love you will feel are irreplaceable and will remain with you through the rest of your life."

Explore our programs at the link in our bio! ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 15

Open
Updates from the field! Volunteers arrived in Nicaragua and Costa Rica last week, on the @amigosnuevasegovia and @amigoslossantos_cr projects. In Los Santos, volunteers have enjoyed morning hikes and card games during the day. Stay tuned for more updates!

Updates from the field! Volunteers arrived in Nicaragua and Costa Rica last week, on the @amigosnuevasegovia and @amigoslossantos_cr projects.

In Los Santos, volunteers have enjoyed morning hikes and card games during the day.

Stay tuned for more updates! ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 15

Open
Saludos desde Costa Rica! Our staff teams on our Montanas y Mar and Costa Atlantica projects are so excited to greet volunteers, who will arrive tomorrow for @amigosmontanasymar and June 29 for @amigosmonteverde! Check out this short video introduction to the projects — can you guess the animal that our volunteers will support wildlife protection efforts for? (Hint: they nest on the beaches!)

Saludos desde Costa Rica!

Our staff teams on our Montanas y Mar and Costa Atlantica projects are so excited to greet volunteers, who will arrive tomorrow for @amigosmontanasymar and June 29 for @amigosmonteverde!

Check out this short video introduction to the projects — can you guess the animal that our volunteers will support wildlife protection efforts for? (Hint: they nest on the beaches!) ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 12

Open
Curious about how to find the right gap program for you? First, make sure the programs you're researching are accredited by the Gap Year Association (ours are accredited too!) After that, consider these five factors when choosing a gap program: 1. Consider the Program Outcomes 2. Consider Your Interests 3. Consider the Time Frame 4. Consider the Destination 5. Consider the Program Theme Read more about each of these reasons, and explore AMIGOS Gap Programs, at the link in our bio!

Curious about how to find the right gap program for you?

First, make sure the programs you're researching are accredited by the Gap Year Association (ours are accredited too!) After that, consider these five factors when choosing a gap program:

1. Consider the Program Outcomes
2. Consider Your Interests
3. Consider the Time Frame
4. Consider the Destination
5. Consider the Program Theme

Read more about each of these reasons, and explore AMIGOS Gap Programs, at the link in our bio! ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 11

Open
Today is your LAST chance to complete our alumni engagement survey! Every day, our alumni fulfill our vision of a world where all people are lifelong leaders sharing responsibility for our global community. Your feedback will help us develop an alumni engagement program that complements our work and brings alumni like you together in the ways that you desire. Link in bio! ¡Hoy es su última oportunidad de completar nuestra encuesta de participación de ex alumnos! Cada día, nuestros alumnos cumplen nuestra visión de un mundo en el que todas las personas sean líderes de por vida que comparten la responsabilidad de nuestra comunidad global. Sus respuestas nos ayudarán a desarrollar un programa de participación de ex alumnos, que complementa nuestro trabajo y reúne a ex alumnos como usted de la manera que desee. ¡El enlace a la encuesta está en nuestra bio!

Today is your LAST chance to complete our alumni engagement survey!

Every day, our alumni fulfill our vision of a world where all people are lifelong leaders sharing responsibility for our global community. Your feedback will help us develop an alumni engagement program that complements our work and brings alumni like you together in the ways that you desire.

Link in bio!

¡Hoy es su última oportunidad de completar nuestra encuesta de participación de ex alumnos!
Cada día, nuestros alumnos cumplen nuestra visión de un mundo en el que todas las personas sean líderes de por vida que comparten la responsabilidad de nuestra comunidad global. Sus respuestas nos ayudarán a desarrollar un programa de participación de ex alumnos, que complementa nuestro trabajo y reúne a ex alumnos como usted de la manera que desee.

¡El enlace a la encuesta está en nuestra bio! ...

amigos_americas

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Jun 9

Open
In June, we recognize the origins and history of Pride Month. AMIGOS believes in the power and wisdom of queer voices, and we invite you to follow @them, @pride, @mpjinstitute, @glaad, and @queerty and check out the articles in our bio to learn more.

In June, we recognize the origins and history of Pride Month. AMIGOS believes in the power and wisdom of queer voices, and we invite you to follow @them, @pride, @mpjinstitute, @glaad, and @queerty and check out the articles in our bio to learn more. ...

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