When Regional Manager Tyler Dingus began organizing a volunteer opportunity for members of the Colorado sales team and distributor partners, he wanted something that would bring people together in a meaningful way. The event brought together Colorado-based team members, visiting Heaven Hill leaders, and distributor partners to make a positive impact in the Denver community.

Working with Environmental & Sustainability Specialist Bethany Schagane, the team identified The Park People as the perfect partner and project in Denver. The result was a hands-on tree planting event at Kennedy Soccer Complex, where Heaven Hill team members joined Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits partners to help enhance a community space that serves families throughout the area.

Together, volunteers planted 20 trees, including several varieties such as white oaks, helping create a greener future for the Denver community.

“We talk about the Spirited Commitment a lot as a company and going out to support the community through a team tree planting event brought many of those values to life. Making an impact on the environment, working together as team, bringing a positive attitude on a warm summer day and improving the shade canopy at the park were all aspects of this team building activity. Ironically enough, the location chosen by the charity organization is a soccer complex my two kids play at so I will get to see these trees plant their roots for years to come,” said Tyler.

With team members and partners spread across different markets and territories, the tree planting created opportunities for people to meet colleagues, strengthen relationships, and connect outside of their normal routines.

For Bethany, that sense of connection is one of the most rewarding parts of organizing volunteer events.

“My favorite thing about tree plantings is bringing people together,” said Bethany. “You get to meet new people, build stronger relationships and make a positive impact in the community at the same time.”

Throughout the morning, teams worked side by side digging, planting and sharing plenty of laughs along the way. True to their sales backgrounds, a little friendly competition naturally emerged as participants compared who could plant the most trees and whose trees were the straightest.

What made the day special was not just the work itself, but the opportunity to slow down and spend time together. Following the event, participants gathered for lunch at a local Heaven Hill Brands on-premise account, extending the conversations and camaraderie that began at the tree planting. Supporting an account while sharing a meal added another meaningful dimension to the day, reinforcing the connections that strengthen both our communities and our partnerships.

The project reflects Heaven Hill’s commitment to cultivating thriving communities where we live and work.