The Pagosa Community Initiative (PCI), a cornerstone of local charitable efforts in family support, is proud to announce the appointment of four new members to its board of directors.
The new board members — Audrey Bliss, Jackie Perales, Taylor Worsham and Veronica Medina — bring a wealth of diverse experience and a shared passion for community service to the organization.
The appointments come as PCI seeks to expand its outreach and deepen its impact across Archuleta County. The new members will join existing leadership in guiding the nonprofit’s strategic direction, which focuses on supporting mental health, education, resource management, community and social services for local families in need.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Audrey, Jackie, Taylor and Veronica to our board,” said Carrie Blue-White, board chair of PCI. “Each of them brings a unique perspective and a proven commitment to making Pagosa Springs a better place for everyone. Their collective energy and expertise will be invaluable as we work to address the evolving needs of our communities’ families.”
Worsham is the assistant director and librarian at the Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library. A professional librarian with a Master of Library Science, she brings extensive experience in community engagement, strategic project management and advocacy from her work in both Colorado and California libraries. She is currently co-leading the library’s building expansion and renovation project.
Medina serves as an Archuleta County commissioner. She holds a master’s degree in business and brings more than a decade of experience in human resources, mediation and grant writing. Fluent in Spanish, she is deeply committed to inclusive representation and strengthening community connections. Her extensive background in public service and her roles on numerous regional boards provide her with a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the county.
Perales is an account manager and a local business owner, operating a car wash and laundromat in Pagosa Springs. She holds a master’s degree in organizational management and a BA in global studies. She brings a strong background in nonprofit and government management/administration from the health care, environmental and construction fields, along with prior board experience.
Bliss is a longtime local business owner known for her advocacy for small businesses and sustainable economic development. She has volunteered with several local initiatives and brings strong organizational and strategic planning skills to the board.
The new board members expressed their enthusiasm for their new roles, highlighting their commitment to PCI’s mission.
“I believe in the power of community, and PCI embodies that spirit perfectly,” said Medina. “I look forward to collaborating with this dedicated team to create meaningful, lasting change.”
Worsham echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the natural partnership between her work and PCI’s goals.
“I can already see the measurable impact that PCI makes in individuals’ lives, and I want to be a part of that positive change by donating my time to the organization,” she said.
Perales shared her personal connection to PCI’s work, stating, “It takes a village to raise a child, let alone the youth of our town. It is our responsibility to contribute and help each other. My children participate in multiple programs offered through PCI, and I am honored to offer my time to take PCI further into the future and continue supporting our amazing community.”
Bliss highlighted her eagerness to contribute her strategic skills to the organization’s growth, stating, “Strong communities are built on strong partnerships. I’m excited to lend my experience to help PCI forge even deeper connections and ensure its long-term sustainability for the people of Pagosa Springs.”
PCI invites the community to meet the new board members at its upcoming annual fundraiser, Second Chance Prom, scheduled for May 16 at the Ross Aragon Community Center.
For more information about PCI and its programs, visit www.pagosacommunityinitiative.org.
About PCI
PCI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with children in Archuleta County.
Through strategic grantmaking, community partnerships and direct service programs, PCI addresses critical needs and fosters a resilient, connected community.
We offer after-school care and programming, family support services, summer camp and much more.
Please contact us today for more information.