Colorado’s Alexander Foundation has been busy sewing seeds of support this winter. This week, the volunteer-run organization gathered folks to tend and uplift a garden of LGBTQ+ human thriving here in Denver.
The sweet soiree was held at the “Governor’s Mansion” event space, a lush oasis and events venue in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Upon entering the wrought iron gates, we were greeted warmly by Denny, who welcomed us down the winding stone pathway, buzzing with local artisans crossing to and fro, unloading their pink potions and jars of curious, fleshy fruits.
Leading through the chaos, Denny glanced up at the soft light of the evening, assuring us that the afternoon drizzle would soon pass.
Guests filtered in through the winding brick roads, a growing mix of families, friends, lovers, allies, activists, and affiliates for Colorado’s’ ecosystem of LGBTQ+ Action.
Attendees could sip a spritz or a floral mocktail, have their tarot cards read, and get their photo taken in their springtime finest.
In the Solarium, Hors d’oeuvres provided in-kind by Maggiano’s Little Italy accompanied a Silent Auction space.
A live violin performance illuminated the gardens; Britney’s “Toxic” sailing hauntingly between the trees on the freshly soaked summer breeze.
This year, the Foundation also added a VIP-level ticket option, offering an intimate choral performance, and special tour of the house for peak contributors.
With bright springtime fashion, vine-twisted stone columns, a flowing central fountain, and a rose-encircled pergola, the event boasted abundant cottage-core, Bridgerton-esque aesthetic opportunities.
When the party had warmed up, MC and Board Chairperson Bob shared intimate, anonymous anecdotes from some of the current and past award recipients.
Bob noted healthcare access as a leading cause of financial struggles in the U.S., underscoring the importance of intentional connection, and intersectional solidarity.
These stories outlined a history of wielding community care as an opportunity to connect and organize around deeply human, politically contextualized experiences—from education, to medical care, to the work of building and honoring resiliency.
Founded in 1981, The Alexander Foundation provides educational scholarships and financial assistance programs for the LGBTQ+ community.
For more than 43 years, the volunteer-based foundation has grown from Colorado’s first AIDS services organization to providing more than 3.5 million dollars to folks in need.
“Meeting a real person face-to-face, a stranger who’s read your story, seen your quiet struggle, and chosen to honor it … It’s a tender, beautiful and surreal experience.”
– 2025 Alexander Foundation Awardee
Thanks to everyone who attended. It was a magical night, and a heartwarming kickoff to this year’s season of spring renewal, queer joy, and fostering community here in Denver, Colorado.
Words and photos by Tay. Get relevant and uplifting local news by subscribing to OFM’s weekly newsletter, and picking up the latest print.
