Commerce Bank champions young entrepreneurs at Centennial Chalk Art Festival.
The Centennial Chalk Art Festival, a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar, was made even more vibrant this year by the addition of the Children’s Entrepreneur Market. Presented by Commerce Bank, the event brought together 55 young business owners, ages 5 to 17, who set up booths to showcase their products and small businesses to the public. From 3D-printed products to jewelry, clothing, tasty treats, handmade bath goods, custom pet pieces and even crocheted items, the Market was overflowing with creative ideas.
A platform for young innovators.
The Children’s Entrepreneur Market is an award-winning program that teaches young people about the power of entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership through experiential learning. Setting up a booth, displaying products and interacting with customers gives these young entrepreneurs valuable experience in refining how they present their businesses to potential customers and clients.
“The Children’s Entrepreneur Market fosters creativity, collaboration and real-world experience, making it an effective platform for nurturing young entrepreneurs,” said Robin J. Wandschneider-Stiegelmar, senior vice president at Commerce Bank. “The combination of practical experience and community support helps cultivate essential leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their entrepreneurial journeys.”
Commerce Bank awarded cash prizes to the top three youth businesses, as determined by public vote. The awards — $1,000 for first place, $500 for second and $250
for third — were designed to celebrate the entrepreneurs’ achievements and help them invest further in their ventures. One young winner is Jade Stafford, first-place winner and owner of The Custom Canine, which specializes in dog gear.
“This opportunity means a lot to me, and I’m so thankful for it,” said Stafford. “Being able to showcase my business gives me a chance to share something I’ve worked hard on and reach more people.”
Winning young entrepreneurs can apply their cash award however they choose, allowing them to realize the success of their business in individual ways. For Stafford, the experience was transformative.
“Winning this prize will help me reach my goal of getting a puppy specifically bred for Schutzhund (IGP), a sport that combines tracking, protection work and obedience,” Stafford said. “This will be a huge step toward my ultimate goal of expanding my dog training skills and gaining more hands-on experience.”
Isabel Isely and Michael Bonn, cofounders of IM Soap, came in second place. The two named their creative soap company after their first initials, and they hope to continue not only adding new designs to their product line but also new items, such as candles, scrubs or other bath and body products. Being able to participate in the event was just the beginning for what’s in store for them.
“It proves to us that no idea is too small to turn into something real if you work hard,” Isely said. “This prize makes us want to dream bigger and never be afraid to try.”
And it seems to be working. Benji Eskandari, third-place winner and owner of Drinks R’ Us, said winning the prize will help to increase his budget. And for Bonn, being among the winners has inspired him to continue following his passion.
“[It has] made me want to pursue more entrepreneurship ideas,” Bonn said. “I am going to be able to invest this money into new products and continue expanding our business.”
A lasting commitment to community.
For young entrepreneurs and small businesses, even modest investments can have a big impact on efforts to purchase new or better equipment, scale up, or refine the production process. Fostering young talent helps to create a sustainable pipeline of future entrepreneurs, contributing to the local economy.
Centennial mayor Stephanie Piko praised the event’s impact on the city’s youth and future business climate — especially when it comes to nurturing the next generation of business leaders.
“Events like this align perfectly with our vision for supporting youth and building a thriving small business community,” said Mayor Piko. “I’ve been inspired by the creativity and determination of our local youth, and I look forward to seeing how these young entrepreneurs will shape Centennial’s future.”
Events like the Chalk Art Festival are an opportunity to start important conversations about financial literacy,
an essential skill. Commerce Bank and the city are aligned with programs aimed at supporting small businesses and creating an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish. The goal is to engage directly with the community and create meaningful connections.
“Through partnerships with various community organizations, we provide educational tools that empower young entrepreneurs and business owners to make informed financial decisions and effectively manage their business,” said Wandschneider-Stiegelmar.
Organizers of the Children’s Entrepreneur Market highlighted the real-world skills gained by participants: By starting and growing a business, young entrepreneurs gain valuable lessons in problem-solving, competitor analysis, developing business plans, critical thinking, pricing strategies, money management and so much more.
“We’re continually amazed by the passion and creativity of the kids in our markets,” said Verna Wallberg, northern Colorado manager of the Children’s Entrepreneur Market. “Along with the chance to run their own business, kids also get the support they can use at home.”
As the city of Centennial celebrates its 25th anniversary, the Chalk Art Festival and Children’s Entrepreneur Market stand as a testament to the power of community, creativity and collaboration — and helping young people dream big, build skills, and take their first steps toward a bright future.
Visit our location at 7481 E. Arapahoe Rd. Centennial, CO 80112
Gratitude.
November always reminds me to pause, not because life slows down (it never does), but because it’s important to look back and really see how far we’ve come. There were moments this year when I doubted myself, but when I stopped and looked back at last year, I realized just how much has been accomplished.
Gratitude isn’t just about saying thank you. It’s about recognizing the moments that shaped you, the people who stood beside you, and the strength you found in yourself along the way.
Some days it’s easy to feel thankful. Other days, it’s a choice, and choosing it changes everything. Gratitude has the power to shift your mindset from “what’s missing” to “what’s already here.” From laughing with your kids or sharing coffee with a friend, those moments turn the chaos into clarity and setbacks into lessons.
This year has reminded me that being thankful isn’t about having it all figured out; it’s about embracing the process. The growth, the grit, the gratitude. ALL OF IT.
With this issue, we’re celebrating that same spirit within our community: the leaders, doers, and difference-makers who show up every day and keep Centennial thriving. The ones who don’t wait for recognition but deserve it anyway.
So here’s to them. And here’s to YOU, for showing up, for learning, for growing, and for finding something to be thankful for every single day.
Come celebrate with us at our Thankful Happy Hour at Alpha Charlie’s on November 13th, 3-6 pm. RSVP and share in the gratitude. Let’s surround ourselves with the people who help us grow.
Here’s to growth, gratitude, and the brave, from our veterans to our everyday leaders, who make this community stronger.
November 2025
PUBLISHER
Megan De La Rosa | megan.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Danielle VonFeldt | danielle.vonfeldt@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Danielle VonFeldt, Megan De La Rosa
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brandon Wood Photography, Karen Conrad Photography, Jonathan Castner at Castner Creative, Preston Designs LLC
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
MEGAN DE LA ROSA , PUBLISHER
Leading South Metro Fire Rescue’s growing district with resilience, vision, and a focus on community. Featured 12 18 24 30 12
Lights of Hope
Hembree
Guardians With Paws
Centennial’s
Whiskey With Heart, Service With Purpose
Veterans Whiskey Society blends community, connection, and meaningful fundraising.
Welcoming Fire Chief John Curtis
city scene
1: Colter Ellis dominates Tightline Outdoors 2025 season, clinching championship and Big Fish Pot finale. 2: Trent VonFeldt showing off his ball skills at the Monthly Happy Hour. 3: Megan and Danielle are channeling their inner baller 4: Photographer Brandon Wood, getting the shot, no matter the spot. 5: Deputy Gray and Carrie Penaloza 6: Mauzies Fine Jewelry celebrates 20 years with the South Metro Denver Chamber
Ribbon Cutting with the South Metro Denver Chamber at Cabinet IQ
business monthly
Hudson Holidays: Dazzling Lights, Festive Nights, Community Spirit Shines
Join Hudson Gardens this holiday season for Hudson Holidays, Nov. 28-Jan. 4, for an immersive light experience designed to delight all ages. Wander through thousands of dazzling displays, discover a glowing maze, and enjoy interactive exhibits that make perfect backdrops for photos. Special theme nights, Santa visits, warm drinks, and cocktails add festive charm, while low-sensory evenings ensure inclusivity. Hudson Holidays is more than just lights; it's a shining celebration of community and connection.
Scan to read more
Power of 100 Recognizes Link Dental’s Life-Changing Community Mission
Link Dental’s nonprofit, Linked to Craig, was recently honored with the Power of 100 Award, recognizing their outstanding community impact. The organization provides comprehensive dental care to patients with paraplegia, quadriplegia, and traumatic brain injuries—removing barriers to access, affordability, and specialized treatment. Led by Dr. Thomas Reed, Link Dental continues to set the standard for compassionate, innovative care, blending technology, trust, and heart to transform lives and restore confidence—one smile at a time.
Select Flooring Designs is Expanding the Vision of Design
Founded in 2017, Select Flooring Designs has built a strong reputation in Centennial for quality craftsmanship and personalized service. As the company grows, it’s evolving beyond flooring to offer complete design solutions for homes and businesses. Locally owned and community-focused, Select Flooring & Design blends expertise, creativity, and care to help clients reimagine their spaces with confidence and style. Your Floors, Our Focus. selectflooringdesign.com
Photography by @HudsonGardens
Photography by Noah Berg Photography
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LIGHTS OF HOPE
ARTICLE
BY DANIELLE VONFELDT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN CONRAD PHOTOGRAPHY
HEMBREE WINDOW CLEANING SHINES BEYOND WINDOWS, ILLUMINATING FAMILIES’ LIVES WITH THE TRUE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS THROUGH LIGHTS OF HOPE.
What started as one dad’s wish to brighten a child’s Christmas has now become a community tradition. After a record season with his business, Hembree Window Cleaning, owner Mason Hembree decided to surprise a local family in need with a full holiday light installation. His hope was simple: that one more child could feel the magic of Christmas. The response was overwhelming. With distributors donating lights and fellow window cleaning companies lending their skills, the Lights of Hope Project was born, illuminating five homes last season and countless hearts.
The name, “Lights of Hope,” embodies the true spirit of the season. “I’ve always believed that charity and hope are at the core of Christmas,” Mason shares. “Our goal is to bring light to families who need it most.”
This year, the project is expanding through a new partnership with local nonprofit Be the Good Ones, whose mission is to create a caring and connected community by meeting small needs with great love and generosity. Founded on the belief that every act of kindness counts, Be the Good Ones unites volunteers, business owners, and neighbors across Douglas, Elbert, and Arapahoe counties to support families in everyday ways, from grocery shopping and providing school supplies to organizing outreach for those facing hardships. By teaming up with Lights of Hope, they will help identify families, manage donations, and inspire others to join in, ensuring that kindness continues to ripple throughout the community.
What makes Be the Good Ones especially impactful is their focus on the “small things” that can mean the world to someone in need. A bag of groceries, a backpack full of supplies, or a quick check-in on a struggling neighbor may not seem monumental, but these acts create a chain of compassion that strengthens
CONTINUED >
entire communities. By pairing that mission with the joy of a fully lit home at Christmas, the Lights of Hope Project is weaving together everyday generosity with holiday magic. Together, the two organizations are proving that hope doesn’t have to arrive in grand gestures, sometimes it shines brightest through the simplest acts of care.
Families are chosen with care: those facing financial or health challenges, with children who will directly experience the joy, and with a support system to lean on. The results are profound. “At one of the first homes, two small children came outside to see the lights. One said, ‘Now Santa will be able to find our house.’ That’s what this project is about,” Mason recalls.
The community has rallied, too. Local group Word of Mouth Parker has played a big role in finding families and even voted on last year’s multi-colored bulb theme. Sponsors such as Novelty Lights and Holiday Bright Lights continue to donate decorations, while installer partners earn recognition and are encouraged to match donations through special Lights of Hope badges.
Partnerships like these also encourage more people to get involved. For those who may not be able to physically install lights, Be the Good Ones provides meaningful opportunities to volunteer, give, or even nominate a family. “It takes a community to build a community,” Mason says, “and working with Be the Good Ones shows just how powerful we are when we come together.” Whether it’s through a financial contribution, spreading the word, or simply showing up to lend a hand, there’s a role for everyone in creating holiday cheer.
Looking ahead, Mason hopes to see the initiative grow well beyond Centennial and Parker. “I’d love to see local leaders in other cities carry this forward, spreading light and hope to families everywhere. Gratitude and humility are keys to living a fulfilling life,” he reflects. “Through Lights of Hope, we’re reminded that even the smallest act of kindness can shine brighter than we imagine.”
This season, from October 31 through December 25, Hembree Window Cleaning and every Platinum Installer will be donating a portion of proceeds to the Lights of Hope Project in support of Be the Good Ones. For a full list of participating companies, look for the Lights of Hope Project badge with your local installer. Families can also be nominated, and donations or volunteer support offered, by visiting LightsOfHopeProject.com
GUARDIANS WITH PAWS
Centennial’s Next Public Art Honors K-9 Service
ARTICLE BY MEGAN DE LA ROSA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZACHERY ERVIN & PRESTON DESIGNS, LLC
This time of thankfulness reminds us that service comes in many forms and some of the most loyal among them walk on four paws.
The Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation (CACF) has launched a community-driven campaign to honor the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) K-9 Units. Recognizing both the patrol teams who protect our neighborhoods and the therapy dogs who support students alongside School Resource Officers (SROs). Since forming its first K-9 patrol unit in 1986, ACSO has expanded to six patrol teams and several SRO therapy dogs who not only provide security but also comfort and connection across our schools.
This initiative was envisioned and championed by Mayor Stephanie Piko, who helped found the Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation and has been instrumental in shaping its mission “It is always wonderful to see how art can bring a community together. We are so proud of the work that our K-9 Units do and recognize them as an essential arm of the ACSO. Bringing these sculptures to Centennial Center Park to honor them, will allow the citizens our K-9’s serve to appreciate their dedication to our community.”
The idea for the sculptures stemmed from that same vision of gratitude and connection. During a CACF visit to a K-9 training facility, Piko and Foundation members witnessed the bond between deputies and their dogs. “We wanted a way to recognize their service and the deep bond they share with their handlers,”
shares Tammy Maurer, CACF board representative. What started as an idea has grown into a community-wide effort to raise $60,000 to bring the sculptures to life, with an initial $15,000 needed to begin the project and quarterly goals set to achieve a Summer 2026 installation.
In collaboration with ACSO and K-9 Back the Blue, CACF is commissioning two bronze sculptures: Atlas, a retired K-9 officer, and Rex, who continues to serve alongside his handler in local schools. These K-9 officers, chosen by ACSO deputies, embody courage, compassion, and the trust shared between law enforcement and the community they serve.
To create such meaningful art, the Foundation turned to Loveland-based sculptors Jason Dreweck and his mother, Teresa Hansen. Hansen has been sculpting since 1983, transitioning from painting into three-dimensional forms that helped shape Loveland’s fine art reputation. Dreweck grew up surrounded by her work, eventually creating his first sculpture in 2012. “I really
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Opposite Left Top: Concept rendering of the future K-9 Heroes statue installation site
Opposite Left Bottom: Preston Designs, LLC
Opposite Right Bottom: Zachery Ervin Photography
Above: Zachery Ervin Photography
“Art has the
power
to unite a
community.
We’re
proud of our K-9 Units and their service. These sculptures honor their dedication and allow citizens to appreciate their vital role.”
get inspired by creating public works that are meaningful and bring communities together,” he explains. The duo has collaborated on several installations, most recently Indy Sunset in Breckenridge.
The process itself is meticulous. From maquette to mold to finished bronze, each step requires artistry and patience. Once completed, Rex and Atlas will eventually be placed in front of the splash pad area of Centennial Center Park. In this way families and children will be able to reflect on the service and sacrifice of the K-9 teams.
Fundraising is already underway, with local partners stepping up in creative ways. Among them is Branch & Barrel Distillery, which has created Specialedition whiskey bottles and limited release with custom K-9 labels, with proceeds going directly toward the sculptures. The commemorative batch is available to pre-order this month, through Branch & Barrel’s website, with bottles officially going on sale in December.
To celebrate, Branch & Barrel and CACF will host a special event on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 2:00–8:00 PM at the distillery’s tasting room (15353 E Hinsdale Cir STE C, Centennial, CO 80112)—featuring bottle purchases, tastings, and pre-order pick-ups. And since it happens to be Mayor Piko’s birthday, the community is turning it into a full celebration!
Individuals and organizations contributing $5,000 or more will also receive recognition with a granite-engraved badge displayed near the artwork—a lasting symbol of community gratitude.
Beyond honoring K-9 service, the project also connects with Centennial’s students and families. The SRO K-9s serve both Cherry Creek and Littleton Public Schools, and CACF hopes the fundraising journey inspires young people to see the power of service, teamwork, and giving back.
As Mayor Piko concludes her term and continues her leadership on the CACF Board, her vision remains clear: to strengthen community through creativity, compassion, and gratitude. “We’re thankful for the deputies, their K-9 partners, and every person who helps bring this project to life,” she shares.
This Veterans and Thankful season, we’re reminded that guardians come in many forms—some with badges, and some with paws.
HOW TO SUPPORT
Checks may be made payable:
CACF: PO Box 3163, Centennial, CO 80161. Questions: stephanie@centennial-art.org
Learn more at centennial-art.org/ honoring-our-k-9-heroes
Sculptors Jason Dreweck and his mother, Teresa Hansen
Preston Designs, LLC
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Whiskey With Heart, Service With Purpose
VETERANS WHISKEY SOCIETY BLENDS COMMUNITY, CONNECTION, AND MEANINGFUL FUNDRAISING.
I had the privilege of sitting down with the Veterans Whiskey Society, a nonprofit that channels whiskey enthusiasm into meaningful fundraising efforts, supporting veteran and first responder programs that make a difference in the lives of many. Here’s what they had to share about their mission and impact.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START VETERANS WHISKEY SOCIETY, AND HOW DID THE ORGANIZATION EVOLVE INTO WHAT IT IS TODAY?
We originally formed as a social whiskey club for veterans in late 2019, providing a space for connection while supporting causes that mattered to us. Thanks to Joel Weismann at Heritage Liquor, who invited us to do our very first single barrel selection, we launched much sooner than expected. That selection, combined with Aspen Flying Club’s donated venue space, allowed us to host a fundraising event for Veterans Passport to Hope. Seeing the impact we could make opened our eyes to the ongoing need — and the Veterans Whiskey Society was born.
WHAT IS YOUR CORE MISSION?
Our mission is simple: fundraising through connection, collaboration, and community in the whiskey space. This primarily happens through Whiskey Wednesday events and fundraisers. We focus on supporting nonprofits already doing meaningful work and helping them raise the funds they need.
WHAT PROGRAMS OR INITIATIVES ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF SO FAR?
We’re proud of the many organizations we’ve been able to help, from the Travis Manion Foundation to Veterans Exploration Therapy (VET), Douglas County Veterans Monument Foundation, and Tunnel to Towers. Each represents veterans and families directly impacted. While still in our growth phase, we’ve built connections and community across Denver that lay the foundation to serve thousands more.
ARTICLE BY DANIELLE VONFELDT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
CAN YOU SHARE A STORY THAT HIGHLIGHTS THAT IMPACT?
One great example is our work with Veterans Exploration Therapy. Getting to know founder Deke Lawson and seeing how he brings veterans together outdoors through activities like rock climbing, skydiving, and hiking, has been inspiring. Supporting his efforts has shown us firsthand how important community and connection are for mental health and healing.
WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE IN THIS WORK?
We deal with many of the same challenges as other nonprofits: needing volunteers, fundraising partners, and sustainable support. The pandemic hit in-person fundraising hard, and sourcing allocated whiskey bottles for auctions has gotten trickier. Still, we’ve learned that the key is to just start — don’t wait until everything’s perfect. Each event is an opportunity to grow, learn, and do more next time.
HOW DO YOU ENGAGE THE BROADER COMMUNITY BEYOND VETERANS?
We believe in collaboration, not competition. We support multiple nonprofits, even those with overlapping missions, because at the end of the day, the more impact we can help generate, the better. And everyone is welcome to get involved, not just veterans or first responders.
HOW DOES WHISKEY WEDNESDAY WORK?
Whiskey Wednesday is our signature fundraiser. We run a silent auction online for several weeks, which maximizes participation and creates a buzz in the whiskey community. Proceeds go directly to the nonprofits we’re featuring that month. It’s a light lift with big impact.
WHERE DOES YOUR FUNDING COME FROM?
Most of our funding comes through silent auctions, barrel pick sales, and donations tied to Whiskey Wednesday events. Host venues often donate a portion of their sales as well. We’re working toward expanding into grants and business partnerships to grow our reach.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS?
We’re committed to continuing monthly Whiskey Wednesdays across the Denver metro area and want to expand into “at-home” versions. These smaller, more intimate gatherings will allow volunteers to host anywhere, creating meaningful connections while raising funds.
HOW DO YOU MEASURE SUCCESS?
We measure it in two ways. Quantitatively, it’s about dollars raised and how those funds translate to real services: housing, crisis relief, or mental health programs. Qualitatively, it’s about the stories. Every veteran who tells us they felt reconnected at an event reminds us why we exist.
Jonathan Castner at Castner Creative
“Even if we don’t raise a dollar, the conversations matter. A simple connection can save a life, and that’s the heart of our mission.”
WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED WHEN THINGS GET TOUGH?
It always comes back to the conversations. Looking a veteran in the eyes and knowing that our work, even in small ways, is helping them feel seen and supported — that’s everything. Even if we didn’t raise a dollar, those connections matter.
WHO ARE THE NOVEMBER BENEFICIARIES?
For November, we’re proud to feature The Invictus Project, dedicated to supporting veterans’ mental health and wellness, and Comeback Yoga, which provides free, trauma-informed yoga for veterans and active duty service members. Both organizations reflect our belief that healing takes many forms, through community, connection, and mindful practices.
FOR READERS WHO WANT TO HELP, WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO GET INVOLVED?
Show up. Come to a Whiskey Wednesday, join an event, or simply reach out to veterans and first responders in your life. Support can come in many forms — volunteering, donating, or just being present. Every person who steps forward adds to the abundance of the community we’re trying to build. You can learn more about us and join at www.veteranswhiskeysociety.org
ARTICLE BY DANIELLE VONFELDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOUTH METRO FIRE RESCUE
“It’s all about how you take care of people and make them feel, valued, seen, heard, and truly respected.”
Welcoming Fire Chief John Curtis
Leading South Metro Fire Rescue’s growing district with resilience, vision, and a focus on community.
South Metro Fire Rescue has welcomed a new leader at the helm, Fire Chief John Curtis, whose career reflects both dedication to service and an unwavering commitment to community. His journey began as a paramedic in Denver, where he developed a deep understanding of caring for people in critical moments. Nearly twenty years ago, he joined South Metro Fire Rescue, and since then, he has grown through the ranks, gaining experience in firehouses and administrative roles alike, all of which have prepared him to lead one of Colorado’s largest and most respected fire districts.
Curtis credits his leadership style to a blend of professional and personal influences. His parents, both deeply rooted in service through their Air Force background, instilled in him the values of discipline, humility, and compassion. Over the years, colleagues and mentors within public safety have further shaped his approach, teaching him the importance of collaboration and empathy in a highstakes profession.
Looking ahead, Curtis envisions South Metro continuing its role as an industry leader. By applying innovative data-driven strategies, he aims to improve outcomes for residents while adapting to evolving community needs. From modified response models to greater integration
with public health, his focus remains on providing timely, efficient, and compassionate service. He acknowledges that with South Metro’s vast coverage—287 square miles across three counties and 12 municipalities—growth will bring challenges, particularly in infrastructure and cost management, but remains confident in the agency’s ability to meet them head-on.
Beyond emergencies, Curtis wants residents to know firefighters play a vital role in the everyday fabric of the community. From school visits and parades to supporting neighborhood causes, he sees their service extending far beyond answering 911 calls. He also emphasizes the importance of wellness initiatives for both firefighters and staff, highlighting advancements in cancer prevention policies, cardiac screenings, and behavioral health resources.
For Curtis, the role is personal as much as professional. His most memorable moments on the job include both life-saving calls and the camaraderie of those who share his calling. Away from the station, he is grounded by family life with his wife and three young children, staying active with sports, travel, and a shared love of golf. His career, he says, comes down to one simple philosophy: taking care of people, making them feel valued, seen, and heard.
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Begins with YOU A SEASON TO SEE THE UNSEEN
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 5TH
Veteran Whiskey Society Whiskey Wednesday!
Bear Creek Distillery, 1879 S. Acoma St., Denver | 5:00 PM
Raise a glass to community and camaraderie at Veterans Whiskey Society’s Whiskey Wednesday. This monthly gathering blends a love of fine spirits with a mission of giving back. Guests enjoy pours, conversation, and the chance to bid in exclusive whiskey bottle auctions, all raising funds to support veterans and first responders through meaningful, local impact.
NOVEMBER 12TH
Blue Sky IDEA Studio presents Pop Up Art Exhibition, Natural Geometries
Blue Sky IDEA Studio and Gallery, 6412 S. Quebec St., Greenwood Executive Park Building One, Centennial | 1:00 PM
Experience Natural Geometries, a five-day pop-up art exhibition at Blue Sky IDEA Studio and Gallery. Featuring dynamic new works by Denver artists Mai Wyn Schantz, Andy Libertone, and Amy Guadagnoli, the show offers a rare look into their creative techniques. Join the Opening Reception on Friday, November 14, from 5–8 pm. Exhibit runs November 12–16.
NOVEMBER 13TH
Centennial City Lifestyle Happy Hour
Alpha Charlie's Tap & Tavern, 6631 S. Peoria St., Unit 100, Centennial | 3:00 PM
Join the Centennial City Lifestyle team for our famous monthly social hour! Mingle with community readers, connect with local partners, and support a great local business. Enjoy happy hour specials and fantastic raffle prizes. Don’t miss this fun and social evening! See our ad for more details.
NOVEMBER 14TH
South Suburban’s Fall Movie Night at Goodson Recreation Center
Goodson Recreation Center, 6315 S. University Blvd., Centennial | 5:00 PM
Kids ages 3–12 are invited to bring pillows and blankets for a cozy showing of Toy Story. The evening includes pizza, popcorn, and plenty of fun in a safe, supervised setting, giving parents a well-deserved night off. Registration is required at ssprd.org to reserve a spot for this family-friendly event.
NOVEMBER 21ST
Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting at The Streets at SouthGlenn
The Street at SouthGlenn, 6851 S. Vine St., Centennial | 6:00 PM
The Holiday Parade Tree Lighting at The Streets at SouthGlenn is a cherished community tradition. Families gather to enjoy a lively parade, twinkling lights, and the long-awaited arrival of Santa. The celebration continues with music, holiday treats, and the grand lighting of the Christmas tree, creating a magical kick-off to the holiday season.
DECEMBER 6TH
Centennial Jingle Jam
Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Ave., Centennial | 1:00 PM
Celebrate the holidays on Saturday, December 6, from 1-3 p.m. at Centennial Center Park for Jingle Jam by listening and watching local youth choirs sing and dance their way into your hearts. Sip hot chocolate and cider, nosh on a cookie all while enjoying this family-friendly event. Don't forget to visit with Santa.
Preserving TRADITIONS H LIDAY
Every
November, The Streets at SouthGlenn becomes Centennial’sWinter Wonderland
The holidays bring back some of our most treasured memories, and for nearly two decades, The Streets at SouthGlenn has been creating those moments to remember with holiday traditions you won’t want to miss. Every year, the center is transformed with thousands of lights, whimsical decor and heart-warming events beginning with the Holiday Parade, Santa’s Arrival and Tree Lighting.
interested in joining the parade, there’s still time to sign up at bit.ly/2025_SGHolidayParade.
This festive celebration kicks off the holiday season with a parade featuring more than 50 community groups, schools, businesses and youth teams. Santa and Mrs. Claus’ horse-drawn carriage completes the procession, and Santa magically lights SouthGlenn’s giant holiday tree. Following the lighting, there are photos with Santa, kids‘ activities, holiday treats, roaming elves and characters and the chance to start your holiday shopping early. If your group is
Throughout the season, the holiday vibes continue with FREE horse-drawn carriage rides, FREE photos with Santa, the chance to earn bonus points for your school with the Street Smarts program, and holiday shopping and dining. Bring the whole family for some memory-making moments that will last a lifetime!
Holiday Parade, Santa’s Arrival & Tree Lighting Friday, November 21 • 5-8 p.m. (parade at 6 p.m.)
FREE Santa Photos 11/21/25-12/24/25, select dates
FREE Carriage Rides Fridays & Saturdays
