Denver Betterment Committee Celebrates 25 Years of Community Impact

UPDATE: The Denver Betterment Committee is marking a significant milestone this year as it celebrates 25 years of enriching the community through transformative projects and events. Established in 2000, this dedicated group is making headlines today with its ongoing commitment to beautifying the streets of Denver and supporting local businesses.

With 14 active members, the committee meets regularly to brainstorm and execute initiatives that enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal. Member Caryl Tjaden, who joined in 2003, describes their mission as focused on creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike. “Our goal is to give the streets of Denver a more appealing look,” Tjaden stated, emphasizing the committee’s inclusive approach to welcoming new members.

Among their first successful projects were the iconic hanging flower baskets in downtown Denver. However, due to maintenance challenges, they were replaced with 24 ground planters adorned with vibrant flowers, each featuring signs that read “Welcome to Denver, Our Hometown.” Local volunteers, alongside committee members, ensure these planters remain well-cared for.

In a continuing effort to enhance community spaces, the committee installed benches at local hotspots, including the drugstore and restaurant AllyKatz. Tjaden noted that these memorial benches were sourced from Kay Park Recreation, reinforcing their commitment to keeping purchases local. Additionally, the committee has introduced picnic tables, children’s digger backhoes, and decorative rocks that spell out “Denver” along the highway, shifting from seasonal flowers to durable rock displays for year-round visibility.

Seasonal decorations are also a staple of the committee’s efforts, featuring cornstalks, sunflowers, and festive winter decor. Although the popular scarecrow project has been discontinued, Tjaden highlighted the fun and community spirit it fostered.

A poignant project undertaken by the committee involved planting a tree in memory of Tjaden’s husband after his passing. The tree, planted across from their home near the elementary school, serves as a lasting tribute to his dedication as an educator in the community for over 26 years.

The crown jewel of the committee’s annual events is the Old Fashioned Christmas, which began in 2003 after Tjaden was inspired by a local luncheon. This festive gathering has grown exponentially, with over 500 votes cast last year for various displays, including 27 trees and 8 wreaths. Tjaden noted, “It’s been fun to see how it has evolved over the years,” as the event continues to draw large crowds and community participation.

Through their projects and events, the Denver Betterment Committee has garnered significant community support, receiving donations and grants that help sustain their initiatives. Tjaden expressed gratitude for the community’s response, stating, “It pays to do those things, and you just feel good. You feel like people appreciate it.”

As the committee looks to the future, they remain dedicated to enhancing Denver’s beauty and fostering a sense of community pride. The ongoing projects and events promise to keep the spirit of collaboration alive in Denver, making it a place that both residents and visitors can cherish.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Denver Betterment Committee continues to inspire and uplift the community with their unwavering efforts.