Events to Attend

Ping Pong on the Plaza: We can’t think of a cooler place to play ping-pong than on Union Station’s doorstep. This annual event, hosted by the IMA Foundation, is a double-elimination tournament with nearly 300 participants, including the Denver Broncos mascot Miles and Colorado Avalanche mascot Bernie (Bernie got the better of Miles in last year’s event). Tivoli Brewery will keep the beer flowing and Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill will be serving up food to keep you nourished. All proceeds benefit local nonprofits. Wednesday, 3–8 p.m., 1705 17th St.; Prices vary

Fill a Plate for Hunger: Cocktails, dinner, and a chance to win tickets to Italy? Not a bad way to spend a Thursday. Indulge in small plates from local restaurants Bar Dough, Jing Restaurant, and Lola Coastal Mexican while enjoying beverages by Woody Creek Distillery. Then take part in a live auction, which includes trips to the Fattoria Poggerino and Rivetto vineyards in Italy, a visit to San Francisco, or specialty dinners in Denver. All proceeds benefit We Don’t Waste, which collects fresh, unused food from venues and caterers and distributes it to community-based food pantries. Thursday, 5–9 p.m., Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St.; Prices vary

5280 Gymnastics Olympic Carnival: Perform a few flips and tricks at this carnival for a cause, complete with petting zoo, games, bungee trampoline, cake walk, and a ninja course designed by American Ninja Warrior Lorin Ball, who once trained at 5280 Gymnastics. All proceeds will benefit the Light the Night Walk, an annual event that raises money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Club members participate in the walk, which takes place on September 29 at Washington Park, in support of owner, Jim Trammel, as he fights multiple myeloma. Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., 5280 Gymnastics, 8110 Shaffer Pkwy., Littleton; $25

Reach and Raise: Gear up for a Sunday morning filled with tranquility at this outdoor yoga class. Enjoy a slow-tempo session to the sound of acoustic guitars and afterward browse through vendors at the Healthy Living Expo, including Suja Juice, Hummingbird Henna tattoos, and informational material from Susan G. Komen Colorado and the American Cancer Society. Proceeds benefit Living Beyond Breast Cancer, a Pennsylvania-based organization that hosts conferences, webinars, and other informational programs to assist those who have been impacted by breast cancer. Sunday, 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Cheesman Park Pavilion, 1599 8th Ave.; Prices vary

Causes to Care About

Mile High WorkShop: This organization provides job opportunities and training to individuals who are transitioning from drug addiction, homelessness, or recent incarceration. The program focuses on teaching technical skills, like sewing and handmade production of goods, as well as developing soft skills, and partners with local businesses such as Koostik, Denver Tent Company and Old Wood Soul. The workshop will be relocating in the near future to a 15,000-square-foot space and hopes to hire about 40 new employees. Learn more and donate here.

No Kid Hungry: Thousands of restaurants across America, including many in the Denver area, will partner with No Kid Hungry this month to provide meals for children and families in need. No Kid Hungry is dedicated to fighting hunger by providing meals to children and educating families on how to eat and cook healthy meals within their means. To dine out for No Kid Hungry, head to any participating Denver restaurants, including Beatrice and Woodsley, Latigo, Red Square European Bistro, Fogo de Chao, and more.