Colorado Garden Foundation ‘Greening Up Towne’

Each day nearly a hundred students enter Young AmeriTowne greeted by beautiful planters filled with locally grown flowers and plants. Thanks to the Colorado Garden Foundation, Young Americans Center for Financial Education has received a three-year $45,000 sponsorship which supports the Parks and Recreation Director of Young AmeriTowne, planters, plants and supplies to enhance the student experience year-round. In addition to ‘Greening Up Towne’, these beautiful planters help students gain exposure to a career path that might not otherwise be experienced by young adults.

“We couldn’t be more excited to support Young Americans Center for Financial Education’s Young AmeriTowne program. We hope the three-year sponsorship helps them reach their program curriculum goals for fourth and fifth graders,” said Jim Fricke, Colorado Garden Foundation Executive Director. “This life-like simulation is an incredible learning experience for students, and we hope they come away with an appreciation for how horticulture related industries impact our community.”

The Young AmeriTowne Parks and Recreation Director is required to manage the community’s philanthropic activities which include the donation station, and the student must also maintain each of the Colorado Garden Foundation sponsored planters. “We are grateful for the Colorado Garden Foundation’s partnership, which will allow thousands of students to experience our unique program and learn valuable lessons that will enable them to be responsible, successful citizens,” said Young Americans Center President and CEO, Richard Martinez.

In 2015, Colorado Garden Foundation awarded $470,243, including matching grants of $36,100 provided by Bellco to 59 Colorado organizations for horticulture-related grants. Since the 1970s, Colorado Garden Foundation has awarded more than $6.8 million to more than 250 organizations in Colorado from proceeds generated from the annual Colorado Garden & Home Show and annual Colorado Fall Home Show.

Thank you for your ongoing support Colorado Garden Foundation!