Where you'll be:
The Colorado Governor's Mansion, located in the heart of Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood, is a member of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Originally built as a private residence in 1908, it was given to the State of Colorado as an executive residence in 1959. In 2011, Governor Hickenlooper donated the plants that would become the First Family's Giving Garden, planted by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado with Grow Local Colorado.
What you'll do:
This is an easy and rewarding way to get outside and give back to your community. Volunteers ages 8+ will have the opportunity to help plant the veggie gardens at the Governor's Mansion.
Grow Local Colorado staff will lead the day's activities and share with volunteers what vegetables will be planted and why, as well as help volunteers understand where each plant will go in the garden to ensure optimal growth and productivity. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their questions about their own home gardens, or you can use this opportunity to learn how to start one for the first time!
Participants may have the opportunity to take home extra seeds and seedlings, while supplies last!
Why it's important:
The produce that will be planted will mature in the fall and be donated to local organizations including food banks, homeless shelters, and families in need. This partnership with Grow Local Colorado creates a more connected community; demonstrates the beauty and efficacy of edible gardens; inspires residents to plant their own vegetable gardens; and contributes to a more sustainable food chain by reducing our carbon footprint.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Ages 8+
All youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.
Background checks will be required for all volunteers and staff in attendance. The checks will need to be completed about two weeks in advance of the event date, and they must be hand-signed with black pen and then emailed to the VOC Project Manager. No electronic signatures will be accepted.
If you are a parent looking to sign your child up for this opportunity, please create a separate account on their behalf, and then register them through that account.
Please click here for comprehensive instructions on how to do this.
This process is intended to be as easy for you as possible while helping to ensure that the necessary paperwork and information is completed. Thank you for taking these steps, and for your understanding.
Project Difficulty:
This project is considered easy, please check our difficulty rating criteria, here, for more details.
Accessibility Factors:
Street parking is within a 5–10-minute walk to the project site. This project may be accessible via public transit for you or accessible via bike!
