Meet the Team

 

Leadership

 
 

Rick

Chief Executive Officer

Why Rick works at HomewardBound: “Because I know every night before I fall asleep that something I did that day might have saved a life.”

Rick has been a transformational leader in the non-profit field for over 40 years. Prior to serving as Chief Executive Officer of HomewardBound, Rick served as President and CEO of the American Liver Foundation in New York City, CEO of the International Dyslexia Association in Washington DC, and in a variety of senior national executive positions with the National MS Society, American Diabetes Association, and American Cancer Society. In addition, he currently serves on the Board of Directors of AgeWise Colorado.

Interesting fact: Rick also owned and operated a couple of restaurant venues in Santa Fe, New Mexico so the guy knows his way around a kitchen and a walk-in.


Chris

Chief of Staff

Why Chris works at HomewardBound:

“We keep what we have by giving it away. Someone helped me, so I am required to pay it forward.”

Chris is an inspirational nonprofit leader with a background steeped in community. After gaining a degree in Criminal Justice, Chris utilized his problem-solving skills as a Branch Rehabilitation Specialist, traveling the country to help failing companies identify pitfalls and solutions to improve performance in the professional sphere. He has also worked as a Trust Recovery Specialist and Medicare Buy-in Specialist in the state of Wyoming, helping individuals access the benefits and care they need. 

Interesting fact: Chris was the State of South Carolina Golden Glove and USA Boxing Athlete Representative for 2 years.


Amber

Chief Advancement Officer

Why Amber works at HomewardBound:

“To strengthen compassion in our community. I hope to open perceptions and change minds about the stereotypes that exist among those experiencing homelessness.”

Amber is a marketing and fundraising professional passionate about giving back to the community. Raised on the Western Slope, Amber received a writing degree from Western Colorado University and applied her skills in storytelling to a variety of businesses and campaigns working with organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the Center for Mental Health, and Finance of America Mortgage. 

Interesting fact: Amber’s superpower is winning radio contests. She has won tickets to almost 50 concerts, plays, and events over the last few years.


Kyle

Director, Human Resources

Why Kyle works at HomewardBound:

 “I enjoy being part of an organization that has such a positive impact on the local community.”

Originally from Florida, Kyle completed his MBA degree in 2023. He has spent his most recent few years working in Human Resources in both the private and public sector.

Interesting Fact: Kyle's love for hiking out west brought him back to Colorado with the goal to hike all of Colorado's 14ers. 9 down, 49 to go!


Paul

Director, Culinary

Why Paul works at HomewardBound: “Everyone has a very interesting story, they are all unique. It energizes me to hear the history of people and it is just that, the people, that keeps me coming back every day.”

Paul has been at HomewardBound for over five years. Originally from St Louis, Paul has made Grand Junction his home for over 30 years. Prior to joining the team, he worked as a dietary aid at Larchwood Inn and a cook at Grand Junction Regional Center, where he also worked as a technician for several years.  

Interesting Fact: Paul loves to bake and paint. He is a talented portrait artist using his family as inspiration.


Misty

Manager, RecoveryBound Program

Why Misty works at HomewardBound: “I have a deep-rooted desire to make an impact in the lives of others and our community. I enjoy playing a role in supporting others through challenging experiences and seeing them transform.”

Misty obtained her B.S. in Psychology: Addiction and Recovery, Life Coaching, and Crisis Counseling from Liberty University. Prior to serving as RecoveryBound Program Manager for HomewardBound, Misty served in human services and criminal justice fields for the past 9 years. 

Interesting Fact:  Since Misty was in elementary school, she knew that she wanted to make a difference in the world by helping others.


Kelsey

Registered Nurse - RN

Why Kelsey Works at HomewardBound: “I believe that everyone deserves access to appropriate medical care and services. Working at HomewardBound allows me to meet individuals where they are and help bridge the gap.”

Kelsey comes to HomewardBound with vast experience providing medical services to those who need to most. With a background in emergency medicine, mental health, home health, and hospice, Kelsey has worked with individuals in a variety of settings to improve outcomes and quality of life for the community.

Interesting Fact: Kelsey likes to wind down by spending time with her boyfriend and their wonderful pets.

Phil

Director, Finance

Why Phil works at HomewardBound:

“The opportunity to work with great people who are doing great things!”

Phil is a Grand Junction native who joined HomewardBound most recently from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. A proud University of Northern Colorado graduate, Phil previously worked in the parking and transportation industry at Colorado Mesa University, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and at Breckenridge Ski Resort. He has spent summers serving as a Park Ranger at the Colorado Monument. 

Interesting Fact:  When not working, you might find Phil on the pitch refereeing a local high school or college soccer match.


Philip

Manager, Operations

Why Philip works for HomewardBound:

“I have life experience when it comes to homelessness and I found a way out. Now I want to be a part of the solution in helping others find a way out of homelessness and helplessness.”

Philip has worked for HomewardBound for a little over a year now. Before working in operations, Philip was an entertainer in the music industry for over 15 years. This experience enabled him to travel coast to coast, meet new people, and build relationships that have sculpted him into the compassionate and open-minded individual he is today.

Interesting Fact: In addition to traveling across America, Philip has also traveled overseas to Japan. He plays brass instruments and was in band from 5th grade through high school.


Adrianna

Case Manager

Why Adrianna Works at HomewardBound:

“Because everyone deserves a helping hand and the tools to thrive in today's society. The smallest gesture of kindness can make the biggest impact.”

Adrianna has worked in a variety of settings before coming to HomewardBound. She worked at Sky Canyon Veterinary Hospital for a little over a year as a kennel technician before switching fields. After working with Precision Diagnostics, where she performed drug testing for people in chronic pain, she realized her passion for interacting with people in need. She started at HomewardBound as a Guest Relations Coordinator and quickly transitioned into the role of Case Manager.

Interesting Fact: Adrianna owned a successful photography business at the young age of 20 & is still practicing photography today.


Ona

Pathways Wellness Clinic

DNP, MSN, BSN , FNP, PMHNP

Melinda

Pathways Wellness Clinic

LCSW

Staff Headshots provided courtesy of MJ Thomas Photography


Board of Directors

 

Doug Clayton | Chair

Brittany Bear

Brittany Bear | Vice Chair

Sheryl Violett | Secretary

Sheryl Violett | Secretary

Sara Tourney | Treasurer

Sara Tourney | Treasurer

William Wade | Chair

William Wade | Chair Emeritus

 
 

Don Kendall

Nick Gower

Nick Gower

Keslie Cooper

 
 

Michael Wilmore

Brian Donaldson

 

 

HomewardBound is a proud recipient of the 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid. Learn more about HomewardBound’s commitment to financial accountability by clicking the seal to view our public profile.