New Freedom Park

For years, a dusty lot in a multinational refugee community was the site of a small community garden and informal neighborhood gathering place. 

Working closely with Denver Parks and Recreation, the Colorado Health Foundation, local nonprofit and business partners, and, most importantly, residents—we transformed a vacant lot into the  New Freedom Park, which opened in 2012. Thanks to community energy and input and partnerships with the city and local foundations, this new park is now a cherished common ground where garden plots, a soccer field, shaded seating, and play spaces bring far-flung cultures together, as immigrant families put down roots in their new country.

The park was recognized with a Frontier Parks Award from the City Parks Alliance and is inspiring work in Denver and across the country.