Civic Center Conservancy programs have an immediate, direct impact on Civic Center Park, but that’s only the beginning. Whether it’s SPARKLES, WORKS, or EATS, our programming ripples out into the community, creating a better Denver for all.
Few programs and partnerships better represent this than Grow Local Colorado’s partnership with CCC and the use of the park’s beds for Grow Local produce. Below, Linda Kiker, Co-Director of Grow Local Colorado answers some questions about the partnership and its impact on our community.
Answers have been translated and edited for clarity
Civic Center Conservancy: Tell us about Grow Local Colorado?
Linda Kiker: Grow Local Colorado is a 14-year-old nonprofit working to create healthy communities through the medium of gardens. In fact, we started here with our first garden bed back in 2009! We educate and build awareness about the benefits of a local food system and earth-sustaining practices, while also connecting our garden harvests, through collective volunteer work, to those who face challenges accessing a consistent source of nutritious food. Each year, we glean thousands of pounds of fruit from trees to share, distribute seeds and seedlings at no cost, and participate in a coalition of 14 organizations named Grow Food Feed People. Our 20 garden sites are located in a variety of places, including city parks, schools, private residences, churches, and even one just steps away from a food pantry.
Civic Center Conservancy: Why is it important to have garden beds at Civic Center Park?
Linda Kiker: Healthy, thriving soil and greener spaces are much-needed in areas dominated by cars, concrete, and people. By supporting life in and on the soil, we create a space for everyone to enjoy and thrive. Gardens (and other wild spaces) benefit air quality, help keep temperatures lower, and provide habitat for insects, birds, and other four-legged creatures we share the park with. Visitors and gardeners alike find a place of quiet interaction—whether with the beauty of the plants or with each other—and in the case of our vegetable beds, a place that directly nourishes people.
Civic Center Conservancy: How have SPARKLES volunteers made a difference for Grow Local over the last few years?
Linda Kiker: Without SPARKLES volunteers consistently helping in our garden beds, we would not have had the capacity to manage them—it’s as simple as that. We know that more visits to these beds mean more people fed and healthier soil. The volunteers are vital to maintaining our stability in the park. Partnership is how we move forward.
Civic Center Conservancy: How can people help during the off-season?
Linda Kiker: Well, like the soil, we rest during the winter and spend time organizing for the upcoming season! However, we know the power of advocacy and invite people to eat locally and think about how they can support their local food growers and food relief organizations. Small acts of care add up, and we encourage others to find where they can be of service.
Civic Center Conservancy: Anything else you’d like to add?
Linda Kiker: We encourage you, the reader, to join us in one of our gardens and experience what we’re talking about. Bring yourself, your kids, or a group. We want to remind you that you’re part of every space—whether green or not—you always have been.
