Meet Our Staff

MEET OUR STAFF

Administration

Brian Beaulieu
Executive Director

"I’m in the business of making kids happy. I believe more kids smile at a Boys & Girls Club than any other place in the world. I’ve been involved with the BGC for more than 30 years, from Boston to Austin and Salida to Buena Vista. I love to watch the staff and volunteers work their magic at the BGC each day and have seen the Club inspire thousands of kids in so many ways.

Away from the Club, you’ll find me smiling while reading a book by Adam Johnson or listening to my favorite band, Calexico."

Austin Taylor
Finance Administrator

Email: austin@bgcchaffee.org

Austin Taylor is an alumnus of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley in Alamosa and understands what the Club means to kids. He holds an accounting degree from Adams State University and worked for an accounting firm in Alamosa before joining our staff in 2021. He holds a graduate degree in taxation at the University of Denver.

Austin also has a superpower—he’s a Dungeons & Dragons wiz!

Tessa Lance
Development Director

Email: tessa@bgcchaffee.org

Tessa first became involved with BGCCC as an AmeriCorps volunteer in 2018. After moving away for a few years, Tessa happily returned to Chaffee County and the Boys & Girls Club as the Development Director. She strongly believes in the power of Boys & Girls Clubs and loves supporting our kids and staff. She holds a Bachelor's degree from Humboldt State University and a Master's degree from Illinois State University. Outside of the Club, you can find her on a local trail, river, or chasing her dog!

Buena Vista Club Staff

Jennifer Wood
Branch Director

Email: jennifer@bgcchaffee.org

"I started my journey at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chaffee County back in 2006 and have seen it grow and expand every year. Our Club encourages youth to become productive, positive members of the community.

I love the program because it allows us to help and inspire kids from a variety of backgrounds. In the near future, I hope to expand our Junior Staff Program to involve more sixth to twelfth graders in the program."

Sue Lathrop
Front Desk

"The Boys & Girls Clubs expose kids to opportunities they might otherwise never experience. I’m glad to be with the Club because it has set up a safe place for kids to be themselves. It’s as much fun as living on a boat for 12 years with a husband, three kids, one dog, two cats and a fish, which means I love it here!

I spend a great deal of time expressing my creativity through fiber arts. It's been so fulfilling to teach kids knitting and weaving on our generously donated looms. Their creations are amazing!"

Salty Riggs

Program Director

Salty is dedicated to bringing joy and education to your child's experience at the Boys & Girls Club. An adventure enthusiast at heart, Salty and her companion Elvis explore Colorado's mountains through hiking, biking, and rafting. Her contagious energy makes her a cherished figure among kids and a genuine role model.

But don't be deceived by her playfulness; Salty's determined to promote growth. Currently pursuing a micro masters in Data, Economics, and Development Policy at MIT, she passionately integrates education with enthusiasm. From creative crafts to captivating science experiments, Salty sparks your child's curiosity and facilitates their thriving. With Salty leading the way, expect an enriching journey of laughter and learning for your child at the Boys and Girls Club!

Salida Club Staff

Kiki Lathrop
Branch Director

Email: kiki@bgcchaffee.org

"I worked at the Club in Buena Vista for several years before becoming branch director in Salida. My predecessor, Tessie Ortega, did a fantastic job, and I am excited about being at the Salida Club now! Working at the BGC appeals to me because I like working for nonprofits and wanted to be in the education field.

At the Club, I get to teach kids in an informal environment. More than that, the Boys & Girls Clubs help build society by providing opportunities that would not otherwise be presented. I grew up on a sailboat from ages 6-17 (mostly around the Bahamas and Florida – it was great!), have lived in the U.K., Japan and Australia, and hold a master's degree in museum studies."

Gianna Fritz

Youth Development Professional

Gianna spends most of her time in the art room doing crafts with the kids at the Club. She spent a lot of her time in the art room when she attended the Club in 2013! She graduated from Salida High School in 2020, and is currently working towards an Early Childhood Education Degree at CMC. Some of her favorite hobbies include skiing, mountain biking, making crafts, and floating in the river.

LeeAnn Slaughenhaupt

Front Desk

"My name is LeeAnn, born and raised in Colorado, married to my Mountain man for 13yrs. We have 2 kiddos, Korah and Ryder who I get the privilege of watching grow as I work the Front Desk. I love working at the club and being a part of your kids everyday lives. I'm so excited to be able to serve you all. When I'm not here working, I love to go hiking, paddle boarding, swimming at Hopper Hot springs and spending time with my family. Can't wait to see you!"