Chair

Vashti's upbringing in the Huerfano Valley was shaped by the communal spirit of the Red Rockers, with her parents being early members of the community, arriving around 1975. From this unique background, Vashti has emerged as a dedicated educator, advocate, and small business owner, driven by a profound commitment to empowering others.

Her passion for experiential learning, outdoor recreation, and promoting health equity is evident in everything she does. As a small business owner, Vashti channels her energy into creating opportunities for growth and exploration, among children of all ages. Her leadership within our organization is characterized by vision, compassion, and a deep love for community.

Vashti firmly believes in the transformative power of health equity, education, and outdoor experiences. These guiding principles inform our mission to cultivate a more vibrant and inclusive community for all. With Vashti at the helm, we are inspired to continue our journey toward a brighter and more equitable future for everyone in our valley.

Vice Chair

Amos's roots run deep in the Upper Huerfano Valley, where he was raised and educated before embarking on his academic journey to pursue a degree in Hydrology. After spending some time away for college, he returned to his beloved hometown, driven by a strong sense of connection to his family's enduring legacy in Colorado.

With a rich background in woodworking and a keen interest in community development, Amos brings a wealth of experience to our board. As the proud owner of CS Woods, a cherished local family business, he is deeply committed to the principles of sustainable resource management and fostering economic growth within our community.

Amos's passion for water conservation and dedication to creating job opportunities are evident in his every endeavor. He is a driving force behind our collective efforts to shape a brighter future for all who call this valley home. With his leadership and vision, we are poised to achieve meaningful progress and prosperity for generations to come.

Treasurer

Lana's journey to the Huerfano Valley began in 1977 when she made the pivotal decision to transplant herself to this vibrant community. From the moment she arrived, Lana's passion for service and financial stewardship became evident.

As a board member and integral part of a few community nonprofits, Lana played a vital role in shaping our community’s nonprofit sector. Her leadership and dedication laid the groundwork for the impactful work that continues to this day.

Throughout her career as a nonprofit leader, Lana demonstrated an unwavering commitment to financial integrity and transparency. Her meticulous attention to detail and creative approach to problem-solving ensured that every dollar was used effectively to benefit the community.

In retirement, Lana's love for cooking shows and crime dramas may provide moments of relaxation, but her dedication to financial stewardship remains steadfast. Her continued involvement ensures that our organization can make a lasting and meaningful impact in the Huerfano Valley community.

Secretary

Danielle's journey began in Southern California before she found her home in the serene landscapes of the Huerfano Valley back in 1994. Since then, she has been deeply involved in community activities aimed at preserving this unique region's rich history and culture while also striving to enhance the well-being of its residents.

Growing up under the guidance of a single mother and immersed in the world of non-profit public service, Danielle developed a diverse skill set and a profound passion for uniting people and effecting positive change. She marched with Cesar Chavez to support the striking grape pickers and worked for the Hunger Organizing Team (H.O.T.) to address food insecurity and the Southern California Ecumenical Council whose focus was social justice, equitable access, housing insecurity, and immigration issues. Her talents extend far and wide, from her captivating performances as a singer to her exquisite culinary skills as a caterer, and her meticulous organization as an event coordinator. This was evident each year when the local music festival was held in Gardner. In every project she undertakes, Danielle infuses it with creativity, flair, and a heartfelt commitment to making a difference.

Danielle's dedication to community activism and empowerment is unwavering, making her an indispensable asset to any organization fortunate enough to collaborate with her. With each endeavor, she drives forward with a singular focus on driving positive change and uplifting those around her.

Co-Op Subcommittee

Cory is a true Renaissance soul, blending his talents as an artist with his deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Born and raised in the heart of Huerfano, Cory's roots intertwine with the community's rich history, with his parents joining the Anonymous Artists of America Commune circa 1972.

Drawing inspiration from his upbringing and surroundings, Cory has emerged as a passionate advocate for outdoor conservation and sustainable living. His green thumb and love for nature are evident in his every endeavor, whether he's tending to his garden or creating artwork that celebrates the beauty of the natural world.

As a driving force behind our community engagement efforts, Cory encourages others to join us in preserving our precious natural resources for generations to come. His artistic vision infuses our outreach and education initiatives with creativity and inspiration, inspiring others to take action and make a difference in our shared environment. With Cory leading the way, we're building a brighter, greener future for our community and beyond.

Community Advocate

Jim, a stalwart of the Gardner community since 1969, epitomizes dedication both as a community advocate and a multi-medium artist. His service on the boards of the Huerfano Community Corporation, Upper Huerfano Fire Protection District, Gardner Main Street Advisory Board, and Libre, Inc., reflects his profound commitment to nurturing co-ops and grassroots endeavors within the locality.

Jim's artistic prowess knows no bounds, as he effortlessly transitions between mediums and techniques. From the meticulous carving of marble and granite to the finesse of photo manipulation, painting, and digital design, his creative spectrum is vast. Furthermore, Jim's musical inclinations shine through his craftsmanship in designing and constructing unique guitars, coupled with his lyrical prowess in songwriting.

But perhaps Jim's most remarkable trait is his ability to bridge divides within the community. With his diplomatic finesse, he traverses socio-economic backgrounds, extending friendship and support to all. His legacy of enriching the Gardner area through artistry and advocacy is a testament to his unwavering dedication and inclusive spirit.

Marketing Subcommittee

Richard's journey through a career in multimedia engineering, media production, business development, marketing, and community engagement speaks volumes about his commitment to community, community voice, and lifelong learning. His years of focus on outreach and community engagement reflect a deep appreciation for meaningful connections and local initiatives that promote sustainability and resilience.

Beyond his involvement in education and engineering, Richard's passion for people sharing stories, giving voice, and nurturing connections have a profound impact on his “why”, his purpose in life. Through his efforts, he strives to strengthen the bonds that tie us together, fostering a sense of belonging and collective purpose.

Richard's diverse background and unwavering commitment to community engagement make him an invaluable asset to our organization. His leadership and passion inspire us to work together toward a brighter, more connected future for all.