October 9th - Thomas Pantoja

Program Title: Building Community Through Creative Projects: An Overview of Concrete Couch

Concrete Couch is a Colorado Springs nonprofit dedicated to building community through creative projects. Our mission is To work with kids and community groups to create public art, to build community, and to create environments and experiences that humanize our world…  During this presentation, attendees will learn how Concrete Couch has transformed an abandoned concrete dump and former homeless encampment into the vibrant Concrete Coyote Community Park, where we now host youth programs, festivals, cultural events, workshops, and community gatherings.

Furthermore, the program will dive into the Sam Dunlap Wall of Inspiration, a community-built mosaic celebrating unsung community heroes in Colorado Springs. This project was made possible in part through the support of the Rotary Club of Colorado Springs, whose grant helped advance this meaningful community collaboration. Together, we’ll explore how creativity, service, and partnerships can beautify our city, teach valuable skills, foster belonging, and inspire communities to work together toward a shared vision. (Public Art Archive)