Lifespan Local Purchases Westwood Property for Community Campus

For two years, Dr. Lydia Prado and her team at Lifespan Local have been listening deeply to community members in Southwest Denver, asking them what they need to thrive.

Hundreds of neighbors have shared their hopes and dreams. Among many creative ideas, the community seeks support for early childhood education, youth development, housing resources, and food access. In addition, they are hungry for a place to gather and connect. “So many times, I’ve heard – ‘We just need a place!’,” says Dr. Prado.

In February, Lifespan Local took a huge step forward in addressing these desires. They purchased the property formerly owned by the Redeemer Lutheran Church at the corner of Dakota and Irving in the Westwood neighborhood.  The vision? To create a community-driven campus that includes an early childhood center, mental health, a youth discovery zone, and other key resources.

Driven by the community-building process she undertook at Dahlia Campus for Health and Well-Being in Northeast Park Hill, Dr. Prado plans to ensure that Lifespan Local’s new site is truly responsive to the desires and dreams of the SW Denver community.

Lifespan Local is now gathering partners and raising funds to make the Westwood campus a reality. Interested in learning more? Reach out to Rebecca Arno (rebecca.arno@bartoninstitute.org) to be added to the dedicated mailing list for the project.