This month the Greet Wash Park team is proud to introduce our community to The Kaplan Family! Mike and Ann Kaplan, along with their four children—Elijah (19), River (17), Gigi (14), and Skye (10)—have woven themselves into the fabric of this neighborhood, creating bonds that transcend mere geographical proximity. In a candid dinner conversation at A.J.’s Steakhouse with Greet Wash Park publisher Adam Brous, Mike and Ann shared insights into their journey, their passions, and the essence of what it means to belong in our community. 

The Kaplans' story is one of serendipity and transformation. The couple met at a happy hour for young Jews in Boulder. Mike remembers, “I'm telling you, and I always say it, it was like a lightning bolt hit me and I'm like, that is the girl I'm going to marry”. The couple moved to Lakewood and started their family shortly after being married. 

For the Kaplans, the Wash Park community represented more than just a change of scenery—it offered a shift in lifestyle. Ann vividly described her revelation while strolling through the park for the first time, realizing the potential for a life filled with walking paths, neighborhood connections, and a sense of belonging. Mike echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the conscious choice they made to invest not just in a house but in a holistic way of living.

Ann reminisced about the initial skepticism she and Mike harbored when first laying eyes on their now-beloved home on Corona Street. What began as hesitance soon blossomed into an appreciation for the underlying beauty within. Mike fondly recalled, we went to visit many homes in “Wash Park and they weren't great, but Ann convinced me to come back to this one, and when we went inside of it, it was like I felt as though it was like a hidden gem, because I didn't care that much for the outside, but the inside I really loved.” The Kaplan Family’s tale emphasizes the transformative power of perspective, turning doubts into a deep-seated affection for their newfound community.

Mike owns a law firm called Kaplan Morrell. “We represent injured workers, and we are also a boutique personal injury firm. Kaplan Morrell started about 13, 14 years ago, and we specialize in helping people who've been injured. Our claim to fame is that we represent 90% of the professional athletes, all the professional player unions refer their injured players to us.” 

Ann is a parent coach who works ”with all kinds of families - moms, dads, couples, grandparents, empty nesters - I help folks to  improve their relationship with their children, the behavior and cooperation from their children, and honestly, overall, the peace and harmony in their families. I've been doing that since 2017. I run a group coaching program for moms, I do private coaching, and. I host a retreat that’s only for moms. 

Beyond their professional endeavors, the Kaplans immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Wash Park's offerings and have rooted themselves solidly in the community. From favorite dining spots like Izakaya Den to cherished neighborhood routines like Front Porch Fridays, the Kaplans exemplify the spirit of neighborliness and camaraderie. As Mike remarked, “what I noticed coming out of this interview is…We're real townees,” embodying the essence of local spirit that permeates every corner of our community. Mike claims to have clocked thousands of hours at Stella’s Coffee Shop and Ann (and her daughter Gigi) both enjoy a hearty work out at Pearl Street Fitness. 

Central to the Kaplan ethos is a shared commitment to personal growth and introspection. Ann's passion for parent coaching and Mike's dedication to his law firm are not just professions but reflections of their continuous pursuit of their best selves. As Ann eloquently put it, "Humility and striving... that combo... is really the sweet spot where magic happens." Their journey serves as a beacon, inspiring others to embrace self-discovery and pursue their passions with unwavering dedication.

In their concluding words, the Kaplans want to extend an invitation to the broader Wash Park community—a call to rediscover the lost art of neighborliness. Through simple acts of connection and shared moments of camaraderie, they believe in fostering a sense of belonging that transcends the boundaries of individual households. As Ann aptly states, "Be neighborly... ask me to borrow a cup of flour. Let's have a picnic." In their vision, the true essence of Wash Park lies not just in its picturesque surroundings but in the warmth and hospitality of its residents.

In the heart of our community, the Kaplan family has found more than just a home to raise their family; they've discovered a sanctuary where community thrives, and connections are forged. Their journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perspective, the importance of shared experiences, and the enduring spirit of neighborliness that defines this vibrant neighborhood. As they continue to weave themselves into the fabric of Wash Park's story, the Kaplans stand as beacons of warmth, inclusion, and unwavering dedication to community.