On Saturday, April 25, the last day of the 2026 National Volunteer Week, we held our annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast. This year’s theme was “Marking Time.” We reflected on the America 250 and Colorado 150 anniversaries and shared the many ways our volunteers help preserve time, mark the significance of different times, and of course, give their own time. They are key to the marking of time in so many ways – assisting with unforgettable events, helping to preserve our collections, creating lasting memories for visitors of all ages, and serving on boards and committees that impact the choices we make as an organization.
At the event, we enjoyed a meal and spending time together, and presented a program where we recognized the contributions of our volunteers. Here are some of the exciting numbers from 2025 we shared:
- In 2025, we had 114 volunteers (up from 99 in 2024)
- Volunteers served a total of 6,778 hours
- According to the Independent Sector’s annual report, the value of one volunteer hour for Colorado in 2025 was priced at $38.74 - Meaning volunteer contributions amounted to $262,580!
- 23 of the 114 volunteers in 2025 served 100+ hours. 10 served 150+ hours. 7 serve 200+ hours.
2025 Volunteer of the Year - Dave Sansone
As we reflected on the individual selected to be honored as our Volunteer of the Year, one phrase came to mind – “Jack of all trades.” We wanted to highlight just some of the traits of this individual and their work at the CSPM:
- T is for TENACIOUS – This volunteer cares deeply for the work of the CSPM. They serve in three different departments and are always working to improve and learn more! They have many skills that allow them to serve in a variety of roles.
- R is for RACONTEUR – As a key member of our education team, this volunteer uses their passion and ability to tell great stories when engaging their different audiences.
- A is for AFFABLE – This volunteer spends a lot of time working with the public – their kind demeanor and genuine curiosity for the lives and experiences of others makes them excellent in their customer service and education roles.
- D is for DISCERNING – This person works in the collections department as well! Along with staff and other volunteers they must make difficult and very important decisions about what objects we bring into our care.
- E is for ENCOURAGING –This individual is often asked to work with and help train new volunteers. They are always kind and encouraging – genuinely wanting everyone to succeed.
- S is for SWEET – This volunteer often bring sweet treats from home, making a point to remember which treats everyone likes best. This is is just another example of their caring nature, and it means the world to our team!
The 2025 Volunteer of the Year is not the JACK of all trades, but rather the DAVE of all trades! Congratulations to DAVE SANSONE!
Dave began volunteering in July of 2024. He joined our team after the HVAC renovation. He was key to the start of our new Gallery Attendant/Exhibit Guide program – helping us test different engagement techniques in the 50% of the Story exhibit. Over time, he also began supporting the front desk as a greeter – taking on weekly shifts and more as needed! His knack for interacting and teaching led him to train as a tour guide. He works with many of our groups that visit throughout the week and never hesitates to cover openings. He is a staple in our Hands on History school program – and excels at the “Timeline Travelers” and “City of Sunshine” stations. He, along with the rest of the school program team, was recently honored as the PRCS Volunteer Team of the Year! He also joined the Acquisitions Committee where he works with staff and other committee members to discuss and make decisions around matters related to our collections. Dave also may have set a new hour’s record – 450 hours in 2025 alone! Of course, we value Dave’s contributions – both via his time and sharing of his talents – but more importantly, we value his kindness and encouragement and feel fortunate to know such a great person. Thank you Dave and congratulations!