BREAKING NEWS: The Denver Betterment Committee is celebrating its 25th anniversary of enriching the local community through impactful projects and events. Established in 2000, the committee is actively working to beautify Denver and support local businesses, making it a pivotal organization for residents and visitors alike.
Today, the committee has 14 dedicated members, including long-time member Caryl Tjaden, who joined in 2003. Tjaden expressed the group’s mission to “give the streets of Denver a more appealing look to residents and visitors passing through.” Their commitment to beautification began with the installation of hanging flower baskets in downtown Denver.
Recognizing the maintenance challenges of the baskets, the committee recently replaced them with 24 vibrant ground planters marked with signs saying, “Welcome to Denver, Our Hometown.” Local volunteers are actively involved in caring for these planters, showcasing community spirit and pride.
The committee has also installed two memorial benches in the downtown area, strategically placed at the local drugstore and restaurant AllyKatz, sourced from local supplier Kay Park Recreation. Other notable projects include picnic tables, children’s playground equipment, bicycle racks, and seasonal decorations such as cornstalks and sunflowers.
A deeply personal project for the committee was the planting of a tree in memory of Tjaden’s late husband, who dedicated 26 years to teaching at the local elementary school. Tjaden stated, “The tree has been there now for six years,” symbolizing both loss and community commitment.
Among the committee’s standout events is the annual “Old Fashioned Christmas,” which has grown significantly since its inception in 2003. Last year, the event featured 27 decorated trees and attracted over 500 votes for favorites. Tjaden recounted the overwhelming response, saying, “It’s been fun to see how it has evolved over the years.”
The committee continues to receive donations and grants to support its initiatives, including special lighting in memory of loved ones that adorns the evergreen trees near City Hall. Tjaden emphasized the gratitude felt for community support, stating, “It pays to do those things, and you just feel good. You feel like people appreciate it.”
As the Denver Betterment Committee enters its next chapter, it invites new members to join and contribute to the ongoing beautification efforts. The committee’s focus on creating a vibrant environment underscores the importance of community spirit in enriching local lives.
Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events and projects as the Denver Betterment Committee continues its mission to make Denver a beautiful place for everyone. The community’s involvement and support are crucial as they work towards a brighter, more appealing future.
