A Message from Executive Director, Janelle Kennedy

The first time I entered the Downtown Greens headquarters building I was a guest at Laura Shephard’s Holiday party on Christmas Eve. I don’t remember the exact year, but I vividly remember the welcoming, friendly atmosphere filled with friends and strangers who shared a love of Gardening, the City of Fredericksburg, and the creative, caring personality that is Laura. As I begin my tenure as Downtown Greens’ Executive Director, I am dedicated to honoring the roots of the organization and the spirit with which Laura built a garden in her backyard to share with her neighbors. 

Today, Downtown Greens is a very different organization operationally. With the acquisition of the Belman Campus in 2021, we find ourselves as stewards of nearly one percent of the land within the City. We have grown from one dedicated gardener to five permanent staff members supported by a host of volunteers, and we are close to finalizing an ambitious plan to protect and provide access to the Belman Campus. 

As Executive Director, I bear the responsibility of shepherding us into a future that serves all residents while honoring our roots. To ensure success, I need to hear your vision for Downtown Greens and how we can authentically serve our neighbors. Over the next few months, we will be hosting listening sessions in multiple locations across the City. I hope to hear your vision at one of these sessions. 

Downtown Greens began as an inviting, inclusive place where neighbors met to create a space filled with beauty and kindness. In the spirit of Laura and the intention with which we began, I invite you to continue to shape the next chapter of Downtown Greens with me.