This morning, more than a dozen New York Young Democrats will work at the Denver Rescue Mission’s Lawrence Street shelter – preparing and serving lunch to some 200 members of Denver’s homeless community – as part of the Democrats’ commitment to giving back to hosts of the Democratic Convention.  The City of Denver and the Democratic National Convention Committee have come under fire in recent months for planning to “hide” the homeless population while delgates are in town.  This event continues the Democrats’ campaign of service in the Denver metro area, including Wednesday’s Delegate Service Day.

“The Young Democrats believe in leaving no man, woman or child behind, but today we are proving that to be more than just rhetoric – we are taking action,” said New York State Young Democrats Communications Director Michael A. Harris.  “We are pleased to have this opportunity to team up with Democrats Work to help out those in need and to show that unlike the Republicans simply talk the talk, we also walk the walk.”

Democrats Work, a national organization helping Democrats connect with service opportunities that has been active in Colorado since January 2007, launched the Ready, Set, CO! campaign this year aimed at addressing Colorado’s pressing needs ahead of the Democratic National Convention.  As part of the campaign, in the last eight months, over 400 Democratic volunteers have contributed more than 1,300 hours of time at 24 service projects – planting trees, cleaning up parks, painting out graffiti, working at food banks, feeding the homeless, painting public schools, and helping seniors. 

Overall, Democrats Work has mobilized over 900 volunteers who have given 2500 hours of time at nearly 50 service events in Colorado communities.