As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, The Greenway Foundation embarks on a profound journey of strategic planning, a voyage that delves deep into our mission, values, impact, and vision for the South Platte River & communities throughout Denver. This process isn’t merely about plotting our trajectory for the next few years; it’s a comprehensive endeavor aimed at fortifying our foundation and setting a course for sustained excellence in the decades to come.
At the helm of this strategic planning endeavor is a dedicated team, driven by a collective commitment to our community and the environment. Drawing inspiration from our rich history and unwavering dedication, we go forth with purpose and determination, guided by the wisdom gleaned from half a century of environmental stewardship.
Julianne Gagnon, our Education Director, emphasizes that “every day brings new experiences—whether I’m outdoors or behind a computer,” she shares. “Through this work, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for Denver and Colorado, forging connections with both the land and its people.” Lexi Killinger, our SPREE Educator & Media Coordinator reflects “In growing up in Denver, the South Platte River has always been my waterway and a resource I value and want to advocate for.” Ali Whitonsky reflects “I am personally motivated by urban conservation and making sure that many students get to have the same experiences in the outdoors that I got as a kid.” Our dedicated staff is the reason why we know this strategic planning process will be a success.
Allie Hennessy, our Youth Programs Manager, shares her aspirations for the journey ahead. “We want to continue pursuing our strengths as an organization while serving our community,” she reflects. “I’m hoping that the process will illuminate how we can further enhance our programs to meet the evolving needs of our community.” Denver and The South Platte River are ever-changing, and to properly serve throughout the city, we know that steadfast adaptability is imperative to our journey ahead. When our organization started, The South Platte River was a dead ecosystem, disdained by the communities around it. Now, the South Platte River is different in many areas, still needs improvement in others, but nevertheless we feel we are transitioning from improving this resource, to enhancing it. But what does that mean and look like?
Rachel Gillette, our SPREE Grants and Partnerships Director, acknowledges the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. “Our core mission remains the same, but this process allows an opportunity for reflection, refining, and ensuring our goals are aligned with current challenges and opportunities.” she remarks. “I see TGF’s role as an ongoing advocate for the river, championing its preservation and educating the next generation of river stewards.” We believe that when people know and enjoy something, the desire to protect and advocate for it is enhanced. Knowing that the South Platte and Denver communities have many challenges, we know it is imperative as dedicated stewards that we prioritize, analyze, and adapt so that we can continue to be as impactful as possible.
This is why our strategic planning process has us looking through these past 50 years, mission statements, organizational and staff priorities, in order to be a unified team working together for the same goal. From getting a clear vision from our Executive Director Ryan Aids on the goals of TGF, to every staff member participating in meetings throughout the year, we are so excited with how this process has and will continue to push us as a team.
As we navigate this strategic planning odyssey, we are guided by our unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and community engagement. Together, we forge a path toward a future where the South Platte River thrives, serving as a vibrant ecosystem and a cherished community asset.
Our legacy over the past five decades is one of resilience, innovation, and impact. From revitalizing riverbanks to inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders, we’ve left an indelible mark on our community and the environment. As we look ahead, we invite our supporters, volunteers, and community members to join us in shaping the future of The Greenway Foundation. We are excited to continue to share about this journey with you as we continue throughout the year.
Together, we embark on a voyage of discovery and transformation—a journey fueled by passion, guided by purpose, and anchored in our shared commitment to environmental stewardship. Join us as we chart a course toward a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
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