Who We Are
Staff
Kim Yuan-Farrell, Executive Director - Master's degree in Environmental Management (Yale University's School of Forestry & Environmental Studies), bachelor's in Anthropology and Environmental Studies (Santa Clara University). Kim has worked at a number of nonprofits in Colorado, California, and Connecticut and is also an alum of the 2010 Denver Community Leadership Forum. Kim raises funds for The Park People's programs and capital projects, oversees the management of the Gates Tennis Center, and works with our board on strategic organizational development. Prior to becoming Executive Director, Kim served as our Program Manager for four years, overseeing The Park People's urban forestry programs. In addition to her passion for urban forestry, Kim cares deeply about parks, the environment, civic engagement, and our communities.
Haley Mackrow, Program Coordinator - Bachelor's degree from The Evergreen State College. Haley is passionate about community education and has experience in community programming and outreach in a variety of fields including high-risk and special needs youth, gardens and farms, public and alternative schools, health promotion, and international exchanges. At The Park People she coordinates the Mile High Tree Champions program. Prior to returning to Denver she farmed on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, and worked for the Seattle Children's PlayGarden and 826 Seattle.
Brenda Whetstone, Program Associate - Master's degree in Landscape Architecture (University of Colorado at Denver), Bachelor's degree in Music (Ohio University). Brenda has a long history of working both professionally and as a volunteer in the non-profit sector. Prior positions include Volunteer Engagement and Management Consultant for Metro Volunteers and Project Leadership Program Coordinator for AmeriCorps VISTA. Brenda's extensive involvement through her volunteer work is diverse and includes work with The Gathering Place, Bessie's Hope, Heirloom Gardens and for more than 8 years, as one of the most active and engaged volunteers of The Park People. At The Park People Brenda supports the Denver Digs Trees and Community Forester programs and works on volunteer recruitment, training, and management.
Executive Committee
- Tim Buchannan, President
- K.K. Ciruli, Treasurer
- Mark Lauriha
- Patrick McMichael
- Chris Chavez
- Chuck Warren
- Merrill Shields
- Johanna Kelly
Board (2011-12)
- John Abramson
- Gregg Brown
- Jennifer Burstein
- Laurie Chahbandour
- Bill Cook
- Bridget Fisher
- Carole Harrison
- Sally Hooks
- Nancy Luther
- Jude O'Connor
- Kathleen Rust
- Andy Spielman