Christy Schaerer, Executive Director, christy@bbig.org
Christy holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Parks & Recreation Management from Western Washington University. She previously worked as Office Manager for a large advertising agency. Christy has held a position on the Board of Directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of La Plata County since 1995, where she served as President, Vice President, and Secretary throughout the years. She has lived in Durango for over twenty years and is an active community member.
Sandra Parziale, Administrative Assistant, sandy@bbig.org
Sandy received her degree from Chandler’s Business School in Boston, Massachusetts. She is experienced in computer skills, office support, and working with volunteers and volunteer organizations. Sandy assists with special event fundraisers, provides support to match specialists, maintains the office systems, and assists the executive director.
Cynthia Stengel, Fundraising Assistant
Cynthia holds an MA in Intercultural Relations from Lesley College in Cambridge, MA. She was the founding Director of the Program for Academic Advancement at Fort Lewis College from 1995 until 2000, which is a federally funded academic support program for low-income/first generation college students and students with disabilities. At BBBS, Cynthia primarily assists the Executive Director with grant preparation and fundraising.
Megan Maurillo, Case Manager, megan@bbig.org
Ms. Maurillo graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication from the University of North Carolina Greensboro with a focus in interpersonal and group communication theory. Her background is in public relations for Entercom Communications and as a membership and marketing director for a natural food cooperative. Maurillo brings to her job experience in coordinating and supervising volunteers and events as well as training others in customer service. As an ice skating coach, she enjoys mentoring children and is passionate about creating positive change for our community.
Shirley Mondin, Case Manager, shirley@bbig.org
Shirley was born in British Columbia, Canada, where she graduated from the University of British Columbia and taught elementary school for a year. She then went on to receive her Masters in Applied Behavioral Sciences, Systems Counseling. Most of her work experience has been in the foster care arena as a social worker involved in recruitment, licensing, assessing, and supporting. Her passion is to make a difference in the lives of children. Shirley will facilitate all aspects of the BBBS’ Community-based Mentoring Program in La Plata County.
Sally Neel, Community Coordinator, bbbsps@centurytel.net
Ms. Neel is responsible for the Community-based Mentoring Program of Big Brothers Big Sisters in Archuleta County. Sally has worked for several nonprofit organizations and a private school. After recently moving to Pagosa, she is already active with several Pagosa Springs organizations, such as Music Boosters, Music in the Mountains, and Loaves and Fishes. She is the organist and Director of Music at St. Patrick’s Church as well. She loves working with children and adults and looks forward to meeting all of the matches and getting to know the families.
Justin Tafoya, Study Connection Program Manager, studyconx@bbig.org
Justin has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management from Fort Lewis College and a Masters Degree in Environmental Policy and Management from the University of Denver. Among other things, she has most recently coordinated a high school leadership program in La Plata County. Justin is responsible for all aspects of the School-Based Mentoring Program.
Anne Brennan, Study Connection Program Coordinator, studyconx@bbig.org
Anne has a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Santa Clara University. Her background includes sales and marketing in the hotel and cable industries and mentoring with the I Have a Dream Foundation in Los Angeles. Anne is responsible for all aspects of the School-Based Mentoring Program.
