At the National Western Center, Community isn’t an add-on — it’s the foundation.
Every decision we make, every program we launch, and every space we open is shaped by the voices of the people who live, work, and gather around our campus. Our Community Stakeholders play a vital role in ensuring the National Western Center remains a place that reflects shared values, mutual respect, and long-term benefit for generations to come.
Listening First, Building Together
Through recent ongoing conversations, public meetings, and transparent engagement, the National Western Center has worked side-by-side with our community stakeholders to understand priorities, address concerns, and co-create solutions. This approach allows us to grow thoughtfully while honoring the history, culture, and lived experiences of the surrounding neighborhoods.
A Commitment Beyond the Campus
Community engagement at the National Western Center extends far beyond our physical footprint. It’s about:
- Creating access to educational opportunities
- Supporting workforce development and creating thousands of jobs
- Maintaining a strong commitment to the inclusion and utilization of Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) across our supplier and partner network.
- Investing in public spaces that are welcoming and inclusive
- Ensuring environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability
The Community Stakeholder process is not a one-time effort, but an ongoing relationship. Stakeholders contribute feedback on campus development, programming, transportation, sustainability initiatives, and community resources. Their input directly informs how the National Western Center evolves over time.
This collaborative model allows us to balance growth with care, ensuring progress benefits not just today’s visitors, but future generations who will call this area home.
Community Investment Fund
The National Western Center Authority created a unique and innovative Community Investment Fund, which is a dedicated resource to support and strengthen the neighborhoods surrounding the campus – Globeville Elyria and Swansea. Funds are collected primarily through round-ups at points of sale and donated to the Globeville, Elyria, Swansea Community Investment Fund (GES CIF), which is governed and managed by community members. Grants are donated from the GES CIF to local organizations and projects that advance community priorities such as education, workforce development, health, culture, and small business growth. The goal is to ensure the benefits of the National Western Center extend well beyond its boundaries, creating lasting, positive impact for North Denver residents.
Since 2023, nearly $800,000 has been raised and donated to the CIF by the National Western Center.
Transparency, Trust, and Shared Purpose
Trust is built through consistency and openness. That’s why we prioritize clear communication, accessible resources, and regular opportunities for engagement. Whether through community meetings, digital resources, or storytelling platforms like our YouTube channel, we aim to keep the community informed and involved every step of the way.
Looking Ahead
As the National Western Center continues to grow, our commitment to community remains unwavering. The voices of our stakeholders will continue to shape the campus — from how spaces are designed to how programs are delivered.
We invite you to watch our Community Stakeholder video to hear directly from those involved and learn more about how collaboration is driving meaningful impact at the National Western Center.
Watch the Community Stakeholder video on YouTube
Together, we’re not just building a campus — we’re building a future rooted in partnership, trust, and shared opportunity.
Stories from the center
Recent Stories
