A Champion for the Park

Interview with Bonnie Summerland

Bonnie Sutherland has called Washington Park home for about 30 years, first on the west side and now on the east, where she enjoys a daily view of the city’s favorite green space. As president of the board for FANS—Friends and Neighbors of Washington Park—she has spent the last few years helping the nonprofit regroup and thrive. Today, she spends her time planning programs and rallying support to keep the beloved park beautiful and welcoming for everyone.

What is FANS, and what does the group focus on today?

FANS was founded in 2006 to handle advocacy and park investments, such as our popular tree guide. Originally a paperback book by expert Sonia John, it is now a digital download that we constantly update as species change. We focus on free programming that helps neighbors understand the park, including Audubon bird walks, garden tours with horticulturists, and educational talks on wildlife management, like our recent session on the banded goose research program.

What drew you to get involved?

A neighbor and former president, Tim McHugh, invited me to join the board a couple of years ago as the group was regrouping after some inactivity during the COVID years. It is incredibly rewarding to work with a dedicated board and partners like the West and East Wash Park neighborhood organizations. We’ve recently collaborated with the People and Pollinators Action Network to create a pollinator corridor, surrounding the park with small native habitats to enhance the existing gardens.

With spring officially here, what’s on deck for FANS this year?

2026 is an exciting year. While the city starts a $3 million bond project, FANS is donating several fun enhancements, including a permanent cornhole game, a swinging bench, and upgraded pull-up bars. We’re also providing two new drinking fountains that feature water bottle filling stations and dog bowls.

Our calendar is full, and it started with a February talk from History Colorado about the history of Washington Park to recognize Colorado’s 150th anniversary. We’re also working with The Park People to sponsor a new horticulture internship within the park’s two gardens. This summer, look for a free concert with the Wash Park Band at the boathouse.

What are the biggest challenges facing the park?

The park’s popularity is its biggest challenge; it is so well-loved that the upkeep is constant. With city budget cuts to staffing, it is hard for them to get all the help they need. We try to fill gaps by organizing volunteers for weeding and planting, and we promote education on proper park use to help the staff maintain this massive system.

How can readers get involved?

The best way is to sign up for our newsletter at fanswashingtonpark.org. It includes event details, volunteer calls, and information on our book clubs and croquet events. Anybody who loves the park is welcome; our volunteer group is fluid, and we’d love to have you participate in our programs.

Photograph by Lee Hopkins