Denise Ladwig was the force behind the growth of the East Palo Alto Community Garden over many years. Beyond teaching local children about growing their own food, she turned the community garden into a garden community, taking local kids on trips to the beach, Yosemite, and more, meeting with parents and teachers, and regularly planning events that would bring the local residents in for music, food, and fun.

She also helped out with numerous other BAA efforts and events.