Civic Center Conservancy programming makes our park safe, engaging and beautiful for all. But the impact of EATS, WORKS, SPARKLES and more don’t just enhance one of Denver’s most vibrant spaces. Our programs can be the start of something big for a small business, or put someone on a path they never expected. 

That’s what happened for John, who started with our WORKS program out of obligation, but stayed with it by choice. We spoke with him this summer about his path to employment.

Answers have been edited for clarity

Civic Center Conservancy: How did you get connected with our WORKS program?

John: I’m part of WORKS here at Civic Center Park through my work at Bayaud Enterprises. I started at Bayaud in order to be compliant with my sobriety program, and three years later, I’m a summer crewlead for the Civic Center WORKS team. 

Civic Center Conservancy: What’s your favorite part of WORKS and Civic Center Park?

John: I’m really proud to lead a crew of people who are committed to keeping this park sparkling and beautiful. You don’t always get to work as a collective toward a single goal like making the park a great place to be, and I’m lucky to be a part of that. 

Civic Center Conservancy: Anything else you’d like to add? 

John: Well, if you haven’t seen how magical the Civic Center Park is, come take a look for yourself. I think you’ll be surprised whether you’re from Denver or not.

WORKS Works! In 2023, we doubled our adult workforce crews and maintained a 38% employment rate – all while keeping the park clean and green and building community. You can support WORKS and other programs this year by donating to Civic Center Conservancy on Colorado Gives Day! Schedule your donation now at https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/civiccenterconservancy.

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.

Did you know? The music you hear at Civic Center EATS comes from some of the most promising young musicians in Denver, thanks to our partnership with Youth On Record. Meet Mango Slushy (real name Danny Acree), one of those musicians making his mark in the park.

Answers have been translated and edited for clarity

Civic Center Conservancy: Tell us about yourself! Is Mango Slushy your real name?
Mango Slushy: My real name is Danny Acree, but when I’m performing, I’m Mango Slushy. I’m a student at CU Denver, studying music business and recording arts. I’ve been with Youth on Record for two years.

Civic Center Conservancy: How did you get involved with Civic Center EATS?
Mango Slushy: I found out about Civic Center Eats through Youth on Record and Bottlefly. Youth on Record booked me as a performing artist, and one of my first shows as Mango Slushy
was actually at Civic Center Park. It’s been pretty great. From there, I ended up becoming an intern for the sound engineering program that Bottlefly and Youth on Record run.

Civic Center Conservancy: What have you learned working with Youth on Record and performing here at Civic Center Park?
Mango Slushy: My performance skills have improved significantly. Communication is key, whether it’s with the artists or the audience. Being at Civic Center Park has given me the opportunity to get that real-world experience and exposure, which is invaluable in the music industry. Indie 102.3 even named us Artist of the Month for July, which was an incredible experience. It was my first time being on the radio, and it felt amazing to get that recognition.

Civic Center Conservancy: How are you able to apply that to what you’re studying in school?
Mango Slushy: A lot of what we learn is about making connections and utilizing promotions effectively. For example, I’ve been making stickers with my branding on them, which I hand out
for free after my performances to build a fanbase and connect with people. It’s all about engagement and creating opportunities for future shows.

Civic Center Conservancy: What’s been your favorite memory of your EATS performances?
Mango Slushy: Every time I perform, there’s this lovely lady named DJ who always comes to support me. She’s been with us from the beginning, and seeing her in the crowd lights me up
and inspires me to keep making music. Shout out to DJ—thank you for being such a fantastic
supporter!

Enjoy the music of Mango Slushy and other rising artists at Civic Center EATS, returning September 11!

Find Mango Slushy on Instagram