Melanie joined the Caring for Colorado team in September 2018 as the vice president of philanthropy. She leads the foundation’s efforts to develop and implement best practices in trust-based philanthropy and ensures Caring for Colorado’s strategies are rooted in equity and guided by authentic youth and community voices.

As a member of her local Boys & Girls Club from ages 5 to 18, Melanie learned early on that the right opportunity at the right time has the power to change — and even save — a life. This formative experience led to a deep personal and professional commitment to ensuring that all young people, regardless of their current circumstances, have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Melanie was first introduced to the world of philanthropy through a high school grantmaking program hosted by El Pomar Foundation. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in the nonprofit sector. After graduating from the University of New Mexico in 2004, Melanie was selected for El Pomar Foundation’s post-graduate fellowship program. After completing the fellowship, Melanie joined El Pomar’s senior staff and served as the deputy director of the fellowship and the regional partnership programs.

In 2009, Melanie was hired as president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Pueblo County. After leading her local Club for eight years, she accepted a position as director of organizational development with Boys & Girls Clubs of America. In this role, she worked with clubs in seven states to increase organizational capacity and impact.

On her off time, Melanie and her husband, Adam, can be found in the great outdoors or on the couch watching their favorite shows.