DENVER — An organization focused on meeting the needs of local groups is receiving a federal grant to develop a community center that will provide essential services to Denver residents.

On Saturday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced its $20 million grant to Commún, a community-led organization in southwest Denver. Commún will use the funds to renovate a 40,000-square-foot building at the city’s historic Loretto Heights campus, according to a release from EPA Region 8.

The new space, to be called the Loretto Heights Resiliency Hub and Community Center, will offer community-designed programming, shelter and crucial services during emergencies, and educational activities, the release said.

The building will include a rooftop solar panel, energy storage, air-source heat pumps, and charging stations for electric vehicles and bikes, according to the release.

The grant is part of the Community Change Grants Program, which awards nearly $1.6 billion in Inflation Reduction Act funds to local projects to reduce pollution and increase climate resiliency within a community, the release said. The program is the largest investment in climate justice in history, according to the release.

Founded by Southwest Denver community members in 2018, Commún works to fill local needs amid gentrification and displacement, focusing on individuals impacted by racism, poverty and injustice.

Community members and city leaders were invited to an event held Saturday to announce the grant, featuring a cultural dance, music, and Q&A session, the release said.

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