Congratulations on being the volunteer spotlight of the month! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
“I was born and raised in southern California, the second of three girls. My sisters and I grew up riding horses, gardening, swimming and camping. Music was a cornerstone interest of my family; everyone played at least one instrument. I was awarded a performance scholarship to the Conservatory of Music at University of the Pacific, which is where my formal education began. I have an BA in creative writing, and am a national board certified health and wellness coach. As a coach I am multi-modality educated; certified in Integrative Health Coaching through Duke Integrative Medicine, certified in Eating Psychology & Behavior through the Institute for the Psychology of Eating, and certified in the Alchemy Method (the use of mythology in coaching). I pull from and blend these modalities in my private practice.”
How long have you been volunteering with EDF?
“I’ve been a volunteer with EDF for roughly 12 years. When I started, we were still working out of a business building basement in Cherry Creek!”
What have your roles been as a volunteer?
“Many. Early on, I was the Colorado representative of the NEDA Star Program which tackles legislation and advocacy. Later I transitioned to working on-site when EDF’s house, A Place Of Our Own, opened its doors. I co-authored EDF’s Mentor Program and have been a Speaker’s Bureau member for several years, speaking in schools and various organizations across the state. I am a recovery mentor and for the last seven years have facilitated the On Solid Ground support group. In 2016 I was honored to receive the EDF’s Orly Award for excellence in volunteer service.”
Why did you choose to volunteer at EDF?
“There were key individuals that helped me heal my own eating disorder and today I’m privileged to support the recovery of others. Recovery is not a static process. It is nuanced and unique to each individual. I volunteer at EDF because I see value in this continued conversation. I believe that sustained recovery is a process of evolution that requires consistent, kind attention. In a recovery-focused support environment, I notice a symbiotic element; a reciprocity. I am the giver, receiver and collaborator of this shared benefit.”
What are your top values and why?
“I value relationships. Community, connection and purpose fuel my actions most days. Holistically speaking, we are as healthy as the quality of our relationships, so I view robust communities and meaningful connection as tenets of health, happiness, and recovery. I value story, personal narrative and vision. Our individual stories carry powerful influences that tether us to where we’ve been. Narrative is our retelling of those stories and it is pliable and can be reenvisioned. Vision illuminates our deepest wishes of where we want to be. I value imagination, creative expression, empathy and compassion (for self and others). I explore these themes and others in my recovery support group and private practice.”
What do you like to do in your free time?
“I’m blessed with motherhood and family is top priority for me. My daughter is seventeen, bright and passionate. I’m married to the absolute love of my life. As a family we enjoy art, theater, and music. My husband and I are both musicians and collaborate with other local musicians. Periodically we’re invited to write and record musical soundtracks for short film. I find walking to be meditative and enjoy daily outings with my trusty companion, Beau (our dog). We spend a fair amount of time in southern California where we have extended family. When schedules allow, we can be found there on the beach and in the waves.”