In the Weeds

We are In the Weeds (ITW), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the well-being of Colorado's Restaurant, Hospitality, and Tourism Industry Workforce. Our mission is to create a sustainable restaurant community by fostering health equity, workforce development, and community resilience.

At ITW, we understand the unique and often overwhelming challenges faced by those working in hospitality—many of whom are high school and college students, low-income individuals, immigrants, Indigenous Peoples, and others. These individuals frequently grapple with long hours, minimal pay, and the pressure of busy, often stressful work environments. They also endure rude customers or employers and lack access to essential resources like healthcare and mental health support. Hospitality workers are considered high-risk and are more likely to struggle with mental health issues, financial instability, housing insecurity, substance use, addiction, and lack of transportation.

To address these challenges, we offer a range of tailored services designed to meet the specific needs of the industry. From peer-to-peer support groups to life skills training, we provide crucial resources for personal and professional growth. Our programs include training on how to administer Naloxone, equipping individuals with the skills to save a patron or loved one from substance misuse. We strengthen our workforce by assisting with job searches, resume building, and finding positions where individuals can truly thrive. Additionally, we offer programs for those who may not have had access to recreation, self-care practices, or opportunities to connect with others in the industry.

We're deeply rooted in the community, with strong connections to industry professionals and stakeholders. Through constant outreach, surveys, and evaluations, we ensure that our services remain relevant, responsive, and effective. Our adaptability allows us to pivot as the needs of our community evolve.

Our goal is simple: to create a culture of care within the Hospitality Industry by addressing health disparities, supporting career growth, and fostering community well-being. The impact of our work extends beyond the industry—it strengthens our entire community.

Join us in our mission to support those who serve us every day and to create a sustainable, thriving restaurant community in Southwest Colorado. Together, we can create lasting change for those who make our community vibrant.

Stay Connected with In The Weeds: 

 website Instagram Facebook 

Program Testimonials: 

“I would love to share a few words about how In the Weeds has drastically benefitted my life through TSB. I have been going to the Sweaty Buddha nearly every Monday at 6am since February. This class maintained my sanity while living out of my semi-insulated schoolie. This class would be unaffordable without In the Weeds and I am deeply grateful. The weekly sense of community, safe space, and physical effort drastically improves my mental and physical health.”

-Ryan B. 

“Learning about the free yoga classes through In the Weeds changed my life! As a small business owner in the food industry, an annual pass to any yoga studio has thus far been very out of reach. I am a pastry chef which means crazy hours, long days on my feet in a hot kitchen, and lots of heavy lifting. Yoga has helped relieve chronic back and hip pain, sore overworked wrists and arms, and given me more flexibility and mobility. Not to mention the mental health benefits I experience from yoga - entrepreneurship, wedding cake making and delivering, fulfilling wholesale orders, etc. all add up to a heavy stress load. Summer is the busiest season for my business with wedding cakes, farmers market, etc. and I haven't been able to attend yoga for weeks now and have absolutely noticed a difference in my body and mind. I have been so, so grateful for the generous, amazing gift of yoga and I feel strongly that anyone in the service industry could benefit hugely from it."

-Rachel C. 

“I love that there is a group that encourages folks in the hospitality industry to make healthy decisions around their physical and mental well-being. This industry can be tough, and the cost of living makes living in Durango difficult. I love ITW because it provides access to activities and learning opportunities, and even incentivizes healthy habits and activities. The folks that work with the program are all phenomenal, and I love that ITW partners with other great non profit organizations that help support our community members." 

-Dan K.