Jolene and Terry Whitney could be described as one of Central Park’s founding families. They moved from Park Hill nearly 14 years ago and built one of the first homes in the community. The Whitneys began actively participating in various organizations that have shaped the community over the years. They have had the unique opportunity to participate in the evolution of Central Park from the former site of an abandoned airport to the thriving community it is today. They purchased their home before there was even a model home to tour—largely because they believed in the vision of the development plan, known as “The Green Book.”
“We moved here because we believed in the guiding principles of the community—from inclusivity to sustainability to creating a strong and diverse place to raise a family,” said Terry Whitney. “The crowning achievement of my work over the years has been to continue this commitment to the Green Book and ensure Central Park offers something for everyone.”
Like most residents, their favorite thing about living here is their network of friends. The Whitneys quickly befriended many of the parents of the kids in their daughter’s kindergarten class. In fact, their oldest daughter was a student in the first kindergarten class at the first elementary school in the neighborhood – Westerly Creek Elementary. This Spring, the same class is graduating from high school, making the Whitneys among the first residents who have raised their kids from infants to young adults in the community.
“When we moved in there were only a handful of families and we all got to know each other well—and after 14 years these are the same people that remain our closest friends and neighbors today,” said Jolene Whitney. “I remember on the first Fourth of July we decided to take the few kids that were here marching around the perimeter of Founders Green to celebrate. Now there is a huge parade in Central Park with hundreds of kids each year.”
The Whitney family became very involved in various causes and organizations in and around the community over the years. Terry has been a member of the SDC Citizens Advisory Board and is presently a member of the SDC Board of Directors. He was appointed to the Board first by former Mayor Wellington Webb in 1993 and again by former Mayor Hickenlooper in 2000. He is passionate about ensuring that Northeast Denver remains an inclusive, affordable community for everyone and is a champion for K12 education.
“I believe strongly that we should continue to focus on our promise of providing affordable housing to Denver residents through a variety of rental and for sale options in this area, and this continues to be one of our biggest challenges,” said Terry Whitney. “This will enable the strong spirit of inclusivity and community that has been at the heart of the community.”
Explore the East 29th Avenue neighborhood, first neighborhood in Denver’s 80238.
Both Terry and Jolene are Colorado natives and enjoy spending time outdoors, at church and seeing movies as a family at the Harkins in Northfield. An avid fitness buff, Jolene works out regularly at CorePower Yoga and Orangetheory Fitness. They watch the Broncos each week with friends at The Berkshire Restaurant.
“We really believe in supporting local businesses so are very excited about the opening of so many new places in the next year,” said Jolene Whitney. “The new Eastbridge Town Center, Stanley Marketplace and commuter rail development are only going to add to the community.”
The Central Park community is among Denver’s most dynamic and vibrant—filled with passionate people who believe in strong community involvement and improving the world around them. Central Park is home to an eclectic mix of growing families, young professionals, empty nesters and numerous stand-out community leaders who are making positive change throughout Denver, the region and the world. One such couple is Jolene and Terry Whitney…
