Groundswell NW respectfully acknowledges that we are on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish people.  We honor with gratitude these lands and waters which have been cared for by the Duwamish, Suquamish and Muckleshoot people, past and present. We strive to continually learn and celebrate the wisdom and traditions of these native people in the work we do. 

OUR MISSION

Groundswell NW is an all volunteer organization with the mission to
“Empower NW Seattle to create, activate and care for parks, open space and habitat”

WHAT WE DO

At Groundswell NW, we serve community groups in NW Seattle by providing mentorship, awarding microgrants, providing fiscal sponsorship, and advocating for parks, open space and habitat at the neighborhood and city level. Since 1992, Groundswell NW has been instrumental in the creation of over 30 parks and natural areas. If you have a great idea and don’t know how to get started, contact us at groundswellnw@gmail.com.

Check out our recent community activities on our report page.

It Started with a Passion.....

Founder Lillian Riley rallied neighbors and friends to create Webster Park, then inspired the neighborhood to think bigger and aim for a network of public green spaces throughout NW Seattle where no one would need to cross an arterial to find public open space.  30+ years later we are still seeking new opportunities in NW Seattle to enrich the lives of our community. 

Lillian passed recently at age 95 and a Celebration of Life was held at Webster Park on September 28, 2025. Groundswell NW is exploring with Seattle Parks to plant a tree to replace one that recently died in the grove by the Webster Park sundial, as well as replacement oaks along the north planting strip, along with a plaque identifying the tree(s) as a memorial to Lillian. You may contribute using the adjacent Donate button, and note that it is for the Lillian Riley Memorial. We will publicize what is finally decided and any tree planting and plaque posting event.

Meet our Groundswell NW Board of Directors:

• Dave Boyd - President

• Rebecca Carr - Treasurer

• Claire Farrington, Secretary

• Renee Dagseth - Immediate Past President

• Dennis Galvin - Past Treasurer

• Peter Maier

• Ed Pottharst

  Advisory Board

• Susanne Daniell - Immediate Past Treasurer

• Brandi Henderson

• Jan Satterthwaite

• Andree Hurley

• Tara Broyhill

• David Folweiler

• Dawn Hemminger

• Davidya Kasperzyk

• Devon Shannon

• Jerry Coburn