Strengthening Community Engagement
Over two decades of public service, Mayor Stephanie Piko has made community connection more than a campaign promise—it is the foundation of her leadership. Her approach to community engagement isn’t about surface-level outreach. It is strategic, inclusive, and built to last. From new infrastructure and digital tools to neighborhood-level programs and citywide partnerships, Mayor Piko’s administration is strengthening the social fabric of Centennial one initiative at a time.
Mayor Piko serves as a founding member and the President of the Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation, which is an independent nonprofit founded to celebrate, inspire, and connect art and culture throughout Centennial.
The idea for the Centennial Arts and Cultural Foundation began in 2019 when City Council explored how to support arts and culture in the community. A committee of residents reviewed models from other cities and recommended forming an independent nonprofit rather than a city-run commission. The group developed the foundation’s initial framework, including bylaws, a mission, and its name. In January 2021, Councilmembers Mayor Stephanie Piko, Tammy Maurer, and Kathy Turley officially established the nonprofit, setting the stage for its work to support arts and culture throughout Centennial.
Today, the organization leads a variety of cultural initiatives across the city, including partnerships with groups like the Symphony of the Rockies and public art projects such as traffic box wraps and murals—bringing beauty to local spaces and fostering meaningful community engagement. Visit the Centennial Arts & Cultural Foundation website by clicking here.
A New Model for Community Collaboration
Understanding that strong neighborhoods are the foundation of a resilient city, Mayor Piko has launched several initiatives designed to bring people together and create more open lines of communication. In 2021, she founded the Centennial Faith Council. This unique body brings together local churches not only as spiritual organizations but as essential partners in civic communication. Through the Faith Council, the city shares information about programs and resources more efficiently and addresses complex issues—like homelessness—in a way that is both compassionate and constructive.
In 2021, Mayor Piko also introduced the Community Grants Program. With $500 microgrants available to neighborhoods, residents are encouraged to organize gatherings such as food truck nights, block parties, and movie nights—simple yet powerful tools to build trust and a sense of belonging across city blocks. Mayor Piko doesn’t stop at programs—she builds the infrastructure needed to support ongoing engagement.
Another major step was hiring a full-time Neighborhood Coordinator, whose background in mediation helps the city resolve conflicts and build stronger relationships with neighborhood associations. Under this role, the city has also developed a comprehensive database of homeowners associations, giving staff a clearer picture of neighborhood dynamics and needs.
Mayor Piko also recognizes the need for intentional outreach to address vulnerable populations and emerging challenges. She advocated for the hiring of a homelessness coordinator to guide the city’s response with empathy and expertise. This role helps Centennial build a proactive and compassionate approach to partnership with residents in need. Additionally, she serves on the board of the Region 9 Opioid Council which is responsible for managing opioid settlement dollars and funding programs for both opioid abuse prevention and treatment.
Building Bridges Across Generations
One of Mayor Piko’s most impactful initiatives is the Center for Generations (COG), created in partnership with the YMCA. Located at The Streets at SouthGlenn, the COG serves as both a community hub and a catalyst for economic revitalization.
During the day, it offers tailored programming for seniors; in the evenings, it transforms into a space for youth activities, including a growing Esports League.By creating a multigenerational space in a central location, the COG is a living example of Mayor Piko’s belief that cities thrive when all residents—young and old—feel seen, supported, and engaged. It also reinforces her strategic goal of breathing new life into a key commercial area while fostering deeper community ties.
Outreach with Purpose
The city has improved its resident digital communication efforts under her leadership. Enhancements to the city newsletter and mobile app make it easier for people to stay informed, while expanded digital services create more accessible ways for residents to interact with city departments.
Throughout her time in office, Mayor Stephanie Piko continues to demonstrate that effective community engagement is about creating structures and systems that foster real relationships between the city and its people. Her thoughtful leadership and consistent follow-through turn big visions into tangible impact. Today, Centennial’s neighborhoods are more connected, its programs more inclusive, and its civic voice stronger—because she believed in the power of community from the very beginning.
