UPDATE: The **Denver Betterment Committee** is celebrating **25 years** of enhancing the community with urgent initiatives to beautify the city. Founded in **2000**, this dedicated group of **14 members** is committed to transforming Denver into a more appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.
Today, the committee is actively engaged in a variety of projects aimed at enriching the local environment. **Caryl Tjaden**, a member since **2003**, emphasized that their mission is to create a more inviting aesthetic for Denver’s streets. “We want to give the streets of Denver a more appealing look to residents and visitors passing through,” she stated.
One of the committee’s pioneering projects involved installing **24 ground planters** in downtown Denver, replacing previous hanging flower baskets that became difficult to maintain. Each planter is adorned with a sign that reads “Welcome to Denver, Our Hometown.” Local volunteers ensure these planters are watered and cared for, highlighting the community’s involvement in beautification efforts.
The committee has also added two memorial benches at local hotspots, including a drugstore and the restaurant **AllyKatz**. Tjaden noted that these benches were ordered from **Kay Park Recreation**, supporting local businesses while enhancing public spaces. Additional projects include picnic tables, children’s play equipment, and decorative elements like bicycle racks and seasonal displays featuring cornstalks, scarecrows, and winter decor.
A particularly touching initiative was the planting of a tree in honor of Tjaden’s late husband, who dedicated **26 years** of his life teaching at the local high school. This tree stands as a living tribute across from their home, reinforcing the personal connections that drive the committee’s work.
The committee’s signature event, the annual **”Old Fashioned Christmas,”** has garnered significant local interest since its inception in **2003**. What started as a simple idea after Tjaden attended a festive luncheon has blossomed into a highly anticipated occasion. Last year, the event attracted over **500 votes** for favorite decorated trees and table settings, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for local traditions.
With an eye on future projects, the committee continues to accumulate donations and grants to fund their initiatives. Tjaden shared, “It’s surprising the number of compliments we get, especially the flowers. It pays to do those things, and you just feel good. You feel like people appreciate it.”
As the Denver Betterment Committee celebrates this milestone, they remain focused on fostering community spirit through ongoing beautification efforts. With new projects on the horizon, residents can look forward to a more vibrant Denver that reflects collective pride and commitment.
Stay tuned for further updates on the committee’s initiatives and upcoming events that continue to shape the heart of Denver.
