Meet Brittni Joy West-ware | Executive Director & Humanitarian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittni Joy West-ware and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brittni Joy, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind success is believing in humanness. I believe that when I began rediscovering America and relearning Denver, I knew remembering humanity was what mattered. I discovered listening and celebrating each humans unique experiences and perception brought me closer to them as a whole. Humans just want to be respected and giving them that respect has made a huge impact on my success

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
About My Work:
As the Executive Director of Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN), I lead efforts to preserve Denver’s historic character, create lasting community relationships, host enaging activities for the whole family, fundraise,and organize meetings all while fostering inclusive, community-driven growth. What sets CHUN apart is our deep-rooted commitment to advocacy, sustainability, and neighborhood engagement. CHUN is the oldest largest Registered Neighborhood Organization in Colorado. We just celebrated 55 years of being a part of Greater Capitol Hill. Our boarders start at 1st Ave to 23rd & Colorado Blvd. to Broadway. It’s huge. I’m most proud of our ability to bring diverse voices together to shape a more connected and vibrant city.

My Journey & Challenges:
Getting here wasn’t easy—it required resilience, adaptability, and a passion for service. Navigating the nonprofit world means overcoming funding challenges, building authentic partnerships, and staying mission-driven. I’ve learned that collaboration is key, and listening to the community is the foundation of impactful work. I also have learned to ignore the hate and nay sayers and focus on the JOY. Often people don’t even know you, however want to dim your light. And in this work FOR the people of CHUN, I can’t focus on who is trying to extinguish light. Build others around you so that you can actually have a village… a community… a home. And never forget Joy is Resistance. So spread Joy.

What I Want the World to Know:
CHUN is more than a historic preservation organization; we are a catalyst for civic engagement, equity, and progress. We are focused on the intersectionality of our neighborhoods. We have neighbors young and older, coffee lovers and juice lovers, people native to our streets and people new to our story. But the story is the key! Our story is one of collaboration—creating a Denver where everyone has a voice in shaping their community. Come collaborate and spread a little joy with me!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Capitol Hill for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that highlights the best of our vibrant, historic, and eclectic neighborhood.

Day 1: Welcome to GREATER Cap Hill

Brunch at Jelly Café for their legendary donut bites.
Stroll through Cheesman Park and explore the Denver Botanic Gardens, then head back to the Secret Garden for a Lavender Honey Latte.
Evening drinks at Hudson Hill for craft cocktails.

Day 2: History & Culture

Coffee at Pablo’s Coffee on 6th Ave.
Tour of the Molly Brown House Museum and the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art.
Dinner at Potager for farm-to-table excellence.

Day 3: Local Favorites

Breakfast at Rosenberg’s Bagels in Congress Park.
Vintage shopping on South Broadway.
Live music at The Ogden Theatre.

Day 4: Foodie Adventure

Lunch at City, O’ City for vegan-friendly eats.
Brewery hopping at LowDown Brewery and Trve Brewing.
Late-night bites at Peter’s Chinese Café.

Day 5: Outdoor & Chill

Picnic at Alamo Placita Park.
Art browsing at Kirkland Museum and Denver Art Museum nearby.
Drinks at the rooftop bar of The ART Hotel.
Capitol Hill is a mix of history, creativity, and community—perfect for an unforgettable trip!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shout out my Mom, Anita West-Berry. She has been so helpful and supportive in this journey. Special shout out to the Urban Leadership Foundation of Colorado Class of 2024! My growth in learning about humans expanded because of people in this class and people I met along the way. And last but never least, a shout out to Jas the Poet who is always encouraging me to learn more about others perspectives and reminds me to never forget I should shine so others may experience light .

Website: https://www.chundenver.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chundenver/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chundenver/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@capitolhillunitedneighborh7127

Image Credits
Photo Cred: MissMoneyShot, Jas The Poet, Bruce Caughey