Our Center’s Sustainability Upgrades Are Officially Underway
LEAF (Lyons Elevating All Fund) is taking major steps toward creating a more sustainable, energy-efficient, and environmentally resilient center. These improvements are designed not only to reduce pollution and operating costs, but also to strengthen LEAF’s ability to deliver essential human and behavioral health services.
After completing major renovations to its aging 1970s facility through a successful capital campaign, LEAF is now moving forward with five new sustainability projects that are funded 100% by the State of Colorado through its Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP) program. These initiatives are designed to reduce pollution, lower operating costs, and strengthen the long-term delivery of essential human and behavioral health services.
A major highlight is LEAF’s plan to take ownership of an electric ID Buzz van, replacing a 12-year-old fossil fuel vehicle that has faithfully served LEAF by picking up and delivering food and essential items. The new electric van, paired with an on-site charging station, will provide a cleaner, quieter, and more reliable way to serve our community.
In 2026 solar panels and back up batteries are set to be installed on the facility, providing renewable energy to help offset the electricity needed to keep LEAF’s pantry refrigerators and freezers running efficiently. This clean energy investment will lower utility costs while reducing the organization’s carbon footprint, ensuring that critical food and services remain available to families who depend on them.
LEAF is additionally transforming its outdoor space with a Food Pantry and pollinator garden, and has already begun planting new garden beds that supplied the pantry this season with fresh herbs, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and more. These efforts provide nutritious produce to clients while supporting local ecosystems. The property will also gain new outdoor gathering areas, enhancing accessibility and community use.
Finally, LEAF is beginning to consider opportunities to incorporate more sustainable purchasing practices over time. Along with our composting and recycling efforts, we continue to look for thoughtful ways to reduce landfill waste and model environmental stewardship at the center.
Once upgrades are completed, the LEAF center will stand as a local model of sustainability and community-centered design. What was once an inefficient, deteriorating structure will become a safe, efficient, environmentally responsible home for essential services, reflecting both the community’s needs and the values of the State of Colorado’s SEP program.