2026 COMMUNITY SUMMIT
Thank you for an incredible 2026 Summit! We look forward to seeing you in 2027.
2026 summit information and schedule
Tuesday, April 28th:
8:30 AM Registration & Breakfast
9:00 AM Building Belonging through Community Art facilitated by Maren Miller and Jonathon Stalls; music by Dr. Yufen Chou
10:00 AM Concurrent Sessions
Board Training: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM with Tessa Lance
ED Bootcamp: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM with Andrea Coen, Betsy Dittenber, Sandy Visnack, Kellye Weber (Space is limited. Special Registration Required) - SOLD OUT for 2026!
General Sessions 1 & 2:
1. From Burnout to Belonging: Building Resilient Organizations Through Kind, Clear, and Financially Sustainable Policies: 10:00 - 11:00 AM with Maren Miller & Megan Strauss
2. Rethinking Partnerships: 11:30 AM -12:30 PM with Shelley Schreiner
12:30 - 1:30 PM Lunch
1:00 - 1:30 PM Optional: Walk To Connect with Jonathon Stalls
1:30 PM Concurrent Sessions:
ED Bootcamp: 1:30 - 4:30 PM with Eric Johnson & Julia Makowski, Megan Straus (Space is limited. Special Registration Required) SOLD OUT for 2026!
General Sessions 3: 1:30 - 2:30 PM (Please select your sessions when you register)
3A. BLUEPRINT for Board Engagement with Brian Beaulieu
3B. Finding & Evaluating Grants for Success with Carol Ann Soltz
Break/Optional: 2:30 - 3:00 PM Walk to Connect with Jonathon Stalls
General Session 4: 3:00 - 4:00 PM
4A. AI Considerations in Nonprofit Management with Andrea Coen
4B. Individual Giving: Building Relationships with Donors with Lezlie Berkley
4:00 PM 2026 Insight Series, Profit with Purpose: The Business Case for Giving with Chris Haggarty, Katy Blanton & Jordan Brown. Hosted by the Chaffee County EDC & the Central Mountain Small Business Development Center. Featuring networking happy hour and panel.
Wednesday, April 29th:
8:30 AM Registration & Breakfast
9:00 AM Concurrent Tracks:
ED Bootcamp with Moe Leneweaver, Shelley Schreiner & Dominique Naccarato - SOLD OUT for 2026!
Community Restorative Practices Training Pt. 1, Hosted by Full Circle Restorative Justice
12:00 PM Lunch
1:00 PM Concurrent Tracks:
ED Bootcamp Closing Session with Betsy Dittenber & Sandy Visnack - SOLD OUT for 2026!
Community Restorative Practices Training Pt. 2
2:00 PM We are Chaffee’s Leaders Hosted by Chaffee County Public Health
4:00 PM Closing
Please contact Betsy@chaffeecommunity.org or 719-204-4565 if you are interested in sponsoring.
Meet your Summit Speakers!
From left to right: Lezlie Burkley, Moe Leneweaver, Maren Miller, Beth Helmke, Carol Ann Soltz, Jonathon Stalls, Kellye Webber, Sandy Visnack, Shelley Schreiner, Andrea Earley Coen, Brian Beaulieu, Julia Makowski, Dominique Naccarato, Tessa Lance, Eric Johnson, Eric Lee, Judy Hamontre, Megan Strauss, Dr. Yufon Chou, Aubrey Tamietti, Betsy Dittenber.
Lezlie Andrew Burkley
Lezlie Andrew Burkley has lived in Salida for nearly 30 years and brings a background in Organizational Communications and Strategic Marketing. She has led and supported major community initiatives, including school development projects and the establishment of Colorado Mountain College in Salida. As Executive Director of the HRRMC Foundation, she has helped secure critical equipment for rural health centers and supported initiatives like the Delnay Guest House for patients and staff. Lezlie is deeply committed to strengthening her community and is proud to have raised her family in the Arkansas Valley.
Moe Leneweaver
Moe Leneweaver is a relationship-driven fundraiser with experience ranging from grassroots organizing to securing major gifts. Her approach centers on connecting donor values with meaningful impact, helping organizations build sustainable support. Known for her curiosity, follow-through, and strategic thinking, Moe supports nonprofits in strengthening their fundraising efforts. She brings both practical experience and a thoughtful, people-centered approach to her work.
Maren J. Miller
Maren J. Miller is a leadership coach, educator, and artist with nearly 20 years of experience across classrooms and organizations. With a background in education and certifications in life and executive coaching, she supports nonprofit leaders in building cultures of belonging and navigating change. Maren integrates creative expression, somatic awareness, and equity-centered practices into her work. She is the founder of Heartful Alignment Coaching & Healing and Heartscapes Art Space, and also teaches at Ark Valley Preschool.
Beth Helmke - Beth has a professional background in the public and nonprofit sectors, education, healthcare, and communications. Currently serving as the Chaffee County Administrator, she has a Bachelors in Molecular Biology and Masters in Nonprofit Management. Beth is passionate about civic engagement, environmental stewardship and sustainability, and cultivating strong and resilient communities
Carol Ann Soltz
Carol Ann Soltz is a contract grant writer with more than 20 years of experience helping nonprofits secure funding to advance their missions. She has worked across sectors including arts and culture, social services, healthcare, and criminal justice. Carol Ann specializes in developing strategic, compelling proposals and has a strong track record with both public and private funders. She is passionate about supporting organizations that strengthen communities.
Jonathon Stalls
Jonathon Stalls is a multidisciplinary “Walking Artist” and founder of Intrinsic Paths. In 2010, he walked across the United States over 242 days and has continued to explore connection through movement, creativity, and community ever since. His work spans writing, drawing, mindfulness, and mobility justice through his Pedestrian Dignity project. He is the author of WALK – Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1–3 Miles Per Hour and lives in Poncha Springs, Colorado.
Kellye Webber, SHRM-SCP
Kellye Webber is an HR consultant who supports small and growing organizations in building strong, compliant, and people-centered workplaces. With over a decade of experience across multiple industries, she provides both strategic guidance and day-to-day HR support. Her expertise includes employee relations, compliance, performance management, and HR program development. Kellye is known for delivering practical, tailored solutions that help organizations confidently manage their teams.
Sandy Visnack
Sandy Visnack is CEO of The Canopy Foundation and a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 25 years of experience. She has served in executive, development, and communications roles, bringing deep expertise in fundraising, strategic planning, and organizational growth. Sandy works closely with nonprofits to build capacity through mentoring, grant writing, and leadership support. She is dedicated to helping organizations strengthen their impact and achieve long-term sustainability.
Shelley Schreiner
Shelley Schreiner brings over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, with a background spanning direct services, organizational development, and policy advocacy. She most recently served as Executive Director of The Alliance and now consults with local nonprofits to help build strong, sustainable organizations. In addition to her nonprofit work, Shelley serves on Salida City Council and the Arts and Culture Advisory Board. She is actively engaged in the community through local events, performances, and fundraising efforts.
Andrea Earley Coen
Andrea Earley Coen is the Executive Director of Guidestone Colorado, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the experiential education nonprofit sector. Her work spans education, agriculture, and community development, with a career that has included schools, farms, outdoor education centers, and wilderness programs across multiple states. Andrea is passionate about connecting people, land, and learning through community-based experiences.
Brian Beaulieu
Brian Beaulieu is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chaffee County and Board Chair for Boys & Girls Clubs of Colorado. With 37 years of experience in the organization, he is dedicated to serving youth and working families. Brian is passionate about building strong communities alongside engaged board members and advancing opportunities for clubs across the state.
Julia Makowski
Julia Makowski is the Operations Director for Alpine Achievers Initiative. A Colorado native, she brings more than 15 years of experience in outdoor and experiential education, including leadership roles with Hurricane Island Outward Bound School. Julia has also worked in youth services at the Buena Vista Public Library and is inspired by connecting students with the communities that support them.
Dominique Naccarato
Dominique Naccarato serves as the Director of Western Colorado University’s Master in Environmental Management Program and Administrator for the Western Alliance for Restoration Management. She has held leadership roles with GARNA and served on Salida City Council, with experience spanning environmental education, policy, and nonprofit leadership. Dominique also consults with nonprofits and mentors Executive Directors through CCCF programs, and is deeply connected to the Chaffee County community.
Tessa Lance
Tessa Lance is a nonprofit professional with over a decade of experience supporting mission-driven organizations. She serves as Development Director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chaffee County, focusing on building relationships and securing resources to support local youth. Tessa has also served on the board of The Alliance, including as Board Chair, and is committed to making a meaningful impact in her community.
Eric E. Johnson
Eric E. Johnson is the owner of Tenn Cent LLC and brings over 20 years of experience in the tech industry. His work focuses on the intersection of technical infrastructure, risk management, and organizational leadership, helping organizations build resilience in an increasingly digital landscape. Based in Salida, Eric is active with local nonprofits as an advisor and volunteer. With a background as a developer, manager, and consultant, he translates complex technical concepts into practical, actionable strategies that support and protect organizational mission and data.
Eric S. Lee
Eric S. Lee is the Executive Director of Full Circle Restorative Justice and a lifelong advocate for healing, purpose, and community connection. Drawing from his journey from Detroit to Colorado, he empowers youth and communities through restorative practices and a deeply human-centered approach to transformation.
Judy Hamontre
Judy Hamontre brings a background in education and the performing arts and has been active in the Buena Vista community since relocating in 2017. She currently serves as Outreach Chair and Vice Moderator for the Congregational United Church of Christ in Buena Vista. Judy is also a board member of the Ark-Valley Humane Society and serves as secretary of the Buena Vista District Accountability Committee.
Megan Strauss
Megan Strauss is the Founder and Executive Director of Alpine Achievers Initiative, bringing over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, governance, and organizational development. She oversees a multi-million dollar budget and leads strategic planning, program design, and evaluation efforts grounded in community needs. Megan has also provided capacity-building support to nonprofits across multiple states through Strauss Consulting, with expertise in board governance, financial management, and organizational systems. She holds a Master of Social Work with a concentration in nonprofit management and is committed to building strong, sustainable organizations.
Dr. Yufen Chou
Dr. Yufen Chou is a music educator and pianist with over 20 years of teaching experience. She founded her own music studio in the Washington, D.C. metro area while completing her graduate studies and has served as an adjunct piano professor at Trinity Washington University and Prince George’s Community College. In addition to teaching, Yufen is an active accompanist and chamber musician. Since relocating to Salida in 2021, she continues to offer private lessons and participate in local music events. She holds a Doctor of Musical Arts in Vocal Accompanying from The Catholic University of America and a Master of Music in Piano Performance from Stephen F. Austin State University, and is a registered Suzuki instructor and trained Music Together teacher.
Aubrey Tamietti - Aubrey is a Licensed Master Social Worker and the Youth Health and Wellness Coordinator for Chaffee County Public Health, where she advances youth well-being through prevention, connection, and health promotion initiatives. She has over eight years of experience as a trained restorative justice facilitator and has volunteered with Full Circle Restorative Justice for seven years, supporting processes that foster accountability, repair harm, and strengthen community relationships. Aubrey approaches her work through a trauma-informed and equity-centered lens, with a focus on creating inclusive spaces where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered to take ownership of their lives.
Betsy Dittenber
Betsy Dittenber is a nonprofit leader with more than 18 years of experience in fundraising, direct service, executive leadership, and volunteer management. She holds a BA in Sociology from Colorado College and a Master of Arts in Public Service and Nonprofit Management from Marquette University, along with a certificate in the Impact of Equity from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management. Based in Howard, Colorado, Betsy brings a thoughtful, community-centered approach to her work. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, including hiking, backpacking, and rafting, and can often be found tackling gardening projects or creating art with her daughter.
““The Community Summit is sure to give a boost to our nonprofit community. We’re excited to bring the expertise of our nonprofit leaders together for a day of learning and collaboration.” ”
Previous Summit information
2025 summit information and schedule
Tuesday, April 29th:
8:30 am Registration Opens
9:00 am Welcome & Networking
10:00 am Concurrent Sessions
Board Training with Tessa Lance: 10 - 12 pm
ED Bootcamp with Andrea Coen, Betsy Dittenber, Michael Robinson, and Sandy Visnack: 10-12 pm (Space is limited. Special Registration Required)
General Sessions 1 & 2:
1. Intergenerational Communication with Emily Marquis: 10-11 am
2. Individual Donor Campaigns with Moe Leneweaver: 11-12 pm
12:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm Networking
2:00 pm Concurrent Sessions:
ED Bootcamp with Shelley Schreiner and Sandy Visnack: 2 - 3:30pm
General Sessions 3: 2-2:45 pm (Please select your sessions when you register)
3A. Organizational Culture with Maren Miller
3B. Strengthening Your Brand with Paul Tally
General Session 4: 2:45 - 3:30 pm
4A. Volunteer Management Basics with Aubrey Tamietti
4B. Major Donor Appeals with Moe Leneweaver
3:30 pm Transition
4:00 pm Chaffee County Economic Development Corporation: Insights Series: Richard Wobbekind, Associate Dean for Business & Government Relations, Senior Economist and Faculty Director of the Business Research Division at the University of Colorado Boulder.
6:00 pm Closing
Wednesday, April 30th:
8:30 am Registration Opens
9:00 am Concurrent Tracks:
ED Bootcamp (Continuation of Day 1 Program) with Betsy Dittenber, David & Sandy Visnack, and Michael Robinson
General Sessions:
Track 1: Grant Writing Tutorial with Jodi Petit
Track 2: Impact Evaluation with Andrea Coen, Dominique Naccarato, and Shelley Schreiner
12:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm Concurrent Tracks:
ED Bootcamp with Betsy Dittenbur, Sandy Visnack, and Kellye Weber
General Sessions:
Track 1: Grant Writing Workshop
Track 2: Communicating Impact with Andrea Coen, Dominique Naccarato, and Shelley Schreiner
3:30 pm Closing
4:00 pm Happy Hour at Elevation Brewery
2025 Sponsorship Opportunities:
Thank you to our generous sponsors for making the Summit affordable for our nonprofit leaders. Your sponsorship invests in the entire nonprofit sector by connecting our leaders with support, knowledge, skills and connection that will help their organizations all year long.