Our Team
Adam Betancourt (He/Him)
Senior Director, Youth Programs
As Senior Director of Youth Programs, Adam leads programming that supports youth academically, socially, and emotionally. He works with instructors and site leaders to create consistent, engaging spaces where young people are seen, challenged, and supported in their goals.
Adam brings more than a decade of experience in K–12 education, including teaching, school leadership, and consulting. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Fort Lewis College, a Colorado Elementary Education Teaching License, and a Data Wise certificate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Outside of work, Adam enjoys running marathons, working on cars, traveling, and finding new spots to eat around town.
Aimee Alcorn, MSW, LCSW (She/Her)
Senior Director, Clinical Programs
As the Senior Director of Clinical Programs, Aimee leads the design and delivery of mental health services that support youth, families, and staff. She helps build environments where young people feel safe, understood, and able to learn and grow.
Aimee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and holds a Master of Social Work from Colorado State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Educational Studies from the University of Northern Colorado, along with post-graduate training in Applied Behavior Analysis. Her experience spans education, private practice, inpatient psychiatric care, and school social work, giving her a broad view of the systems that shape children’s lives.
Outside of work, Aimee loves hiking with her dog, Luna, spending time with her big Italian family, and trying new restaurants. One of her favorite books is Strega Nona, a nod to her kindergarten teacher roots.
Akilah Martin, MA, LPCC (She/Her)
Associate Behavioral Health Therapist
Akilah is an Associate Behavioral Health Therapist who provides therapy to youth and families. She first joined the organization in 2022 as an Engagement Specialist, later completed her clinical internship, and then moved into her current role supporting young people’s social and emotional well-being.
She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Colorado State University. While at CSU, her research on PTSD in the African American community earned top honors at the MURALS Symposium and reflects her commitment to mental health equity and culturally responsive care.
Akilah is passionate about creating healing spaces that feel safe, accessible, and affirming, especially for those who have not always been centered in mental health. Outside of work, she enjoys films, thrifting, traveling, and exploring new food. She is originally from Aurora, Colorado.
Alyssa Karrasch, MA, LPCC (She/Her)
Associate Behavioral Health Therapist
As an Associate Behavioral Health Therapist, Alyssa supports children and parents as they navigate stress, life changes, and family dynamics. After more than 20 years in the business world, and seeing how the pandemic reshaped daily life and emotional well-being, she felt called to move into the mental health field.
She holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications and Advertising from Boston University. Alyssa brings a warm, person-centered approach, meeting each client where they are and helping them build tools, insight, and confidence to grow and heal.
Outside of work, Alyssa loves being outdoors and traveling. She enjoys hiking, spending time with family and friends, cooking, yoga, Barre3, and, when life is quiet enough, reading a good book.
Anthony Rice (He/Him)
Assistant Site Leader
Coming Soon!
Cain Cox (He/Him)
Lead Instructor 3-8th Grade
As Lead Instructor, Cain designs and leads long-form lessons that invite youth to think creatively, build skills, and see projects through from idea to completion. His favorite part of the work is watching those lessons come to life and seeing youth connect with the material in their own way.
A program alum, Cain brings an open, collaborative mindset and a strong arts background to both lesson planning and classroom work. He has completed internships with local artists across Denver and trained alongside other instructors, thriving in design-focused environments.
Outside of the classroom, Cain enjoys drawing, working in video, and collecting records. One of his favorite movies is Pretty in Pink.
Erin Fernandez (She/Her)
Director, Post Secondary Success
As the Director of Post-Secondary Success, Erin helps youth recognize their strengths, set goals, and move toward life after high school with confidence. Her favorite part of the role is building relationships with students and families as they navigate big transitions.
Erin holds a B.A. Certificate in Global and Intercultural Communication from the University of Colorado Denver and is completing her B.A. in Communication there, with an expected graduation in fall 2025. She brings strong emotional intelligence, creativity, and partnership-building skills and is especially motivated by co-designing programs with youth.
Outside of work, Erin enjoys time with her family, hiking, live music, baking cookies, taking the occasional dance class, and watching a good rom-com.
Giuliano Jones, MA, LPCC (He/Him)
Restoring Futures Case Manager & Behavioral Health Therapist I
Giuliano serves as the Restoring Futures Case Manager and a Behavioral Health Therapist I, supporting youth and adults as they navigate stress, identity questions, and life transitions. He joined the Dream Team in 2024 as a Clinical Intern and moved into his current role in 2025.
He is originally from Northern California and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Prescott College. A Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Colorado, he often focuses on attachment, meaning, and belonging in his work.
Outside of work, Giuliano loves Chinese and Japanese tea and ceramics, perfumery, cooking, indie and alternative rock, collecting records, reading and writing, visiting hot springs, and eating out.
Hannah Edwards-Martinez (She/Her)
Instructor - High School
As a High School Instructor, Hanna works directly with youth to build skills, confidence, and strong habits for school and beyond. She creates a calm, supportive classroom where students can ask questions, make mistakes, and keep growing.
Hanna brings eight years of teaching experience and holds a master’s degree in Sociology. Known for her patience, problem solving, and steady encouragement, she helps youth stay engaged and feel capable, even when the work is challenging. She takes a holistic approach that includes both youth and caregivers, knowing outcomes improve when adults and young people are supported together.
Outside of work, Hanna enjoys walks, movies (especially scary ones), and reading. One of her favorite books is The Great Alone.
Henry Schuler (He/Him)
Clinical Intern
As a Clinical Intern, Henry provides therapy to youth and families and supports them in their personal growth. His favorite part of the work is getting to know clients deeply and walking beside them as they learn more about themselves over time.
Henry is a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling candidate at the University of Denver and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Psychoanalysis from Colorado College. He works from a place of curiosity and respect, helping clients notice patterns in their lives and decide what they want to change.
Outside of work, Henry enjoys walking, running, being in nature, reading, skiing, playing soccer, and spending time with friends and family. Fun fact: he can wiggle his ears, and he loves mangos.
Jennifer Stucklen (She/Her)
Manager, Operations & Communications
As the Operations & Communications Manager, Jennifer oversees core operations and organizational communications. She manages systems, staff onboarding, and site logistics, and leads website management and digital campaigns so youth, families, and partners receive clear, timely information.
Jennifer brings over 20 years of experience in administration and operations, including serving as director of an early intervention program in New York City and working in the early childhood nonprofit sector. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from Colorado State University and completed the Early Childhood Outdoor Learning Environments certificate at North Carolina State University.
Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys time with her family, snowboarding, hiking, rafting, and camping. Her favorite book is Pride and Prejudice, and her favorite movie is Cinema Paradiso.
Joshua Meyer (He/Him)
Senior Manager, Grants & Development
As the Senior Manager, Grants & Management, Josh supports Colorado Dream Foundation’s fundraising and organizational health. He oversees grant proposals, reporting, and compliance, and works with program and finance staff to align funding with youth programming and strategic priorities.
Josh spent more than two decades as an attorney before shifting to the nonprofit sector in 2021. He brings deep experience in analysis, clear writing, and ethical decision-making to his role. He holds an undergraduate degree in journalism with a second concentration in business from Indiana University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado.
Originally from New Jersey, Josh now takes full advantage of Colorado’s outdoors. Outside of work, he enjoys mountain biking, snowboarding, hiking, and spending time with his family.
Josue Silva (He/Him)
Lead Instructor - High School
BIO COMING SOON!
Kady Mohammad (She/Her)
Clinical Intern
As a Clinical Intern, Kady supports youth and adults navigating stress, identity, cultural transitions, and trauma. She is a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling candidate at the University of Denver and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Kady speaks Arabic and offers sessions in Arabic, helping her connect more deeply with immigrant and Arabic-speaking clients and families. She blends DBT, CBT, psychodynamic, and person-centered approaches, grounded in a feminist and trauma-informed lens, and practices from cultural humility and social justice.
Outside of work, she enjoys time with her cats and dogs, as well as reading, writing, and cooking with her family.
Kate Crowley (She/Her)
Clinical Intern
Kate is a Clinical Intern who supports youth and families as they work through mental health challenges, big feelings, and important life changes. Her favorite part of the work is building relationships where people feel safe, heard, and understood.
Kate is a graduate student at Metropolitan State University of Denver, pursuing her Master of Social Work, with an expected graduation in May 2026. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Social Work there in 2024. She previously worked in a residential mental health facility for adolescents, an experience that deepened her commitment to this field.
Her approach is rooted in a person-in-environment perspective. Kate sees each client and family as the expert on their own experience and focuses on identifying strengths while noticing where support is needed, using a psychodynamic lens to guide her work.
Kaye Taavialma (She/Her)
Chief Executive Officer
As Chief Executive Officer, Kaye leads the organization’s vision, strategy, and partnerships to expand opportunities for youth and families. She brings years in the Denver education community and is committed to building systems that are equitable, identity-affirming, and grounded in real relationships.
Originally from Gambier, Ohio, Kaye holds a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Leadership and Adult Learning from Antioch University in Seattle and a Bachelor of Arts in History from the College of Wooster. She has also been active in Denver’s indie film scene, with one film accepted to the Oaxaca International Film Festival and another to the Sundance Film Festival.
Kaye is the proud mom of two young adults: a son who wrestles at Otero College and studies welding, and a daughter who attends Bard College to study Psychology and Theater. Outside of work, she enjoys rafting with her wife and their “circus” of dogs, planning family adventures, and reading on a sunny beach.
Kyara Supreme (She/Her)
Site Leader
As Site Leader for the youth program, Kyara oversees daily programming and supports staff in creating safe, consistent spaces for youth and their families.
She holds a Master’s in Criminal Justice with a focus on rehabilitation, counseling, and interviewing, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Criminal Justice. She also has training in project management, data analytics, strategic leadership, and Youth Mental Health First Aid, and brings strong skills in collaboration, crisis response, and planning.
Kyara’s approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a strengths-based, culturally responsive lens. Growing up with adverse childhood experiences, she understands how early challenges shape a young person’s sense of safety and possibility and is committed to building the kind of support system she once needed. Outside of work, she enjoys art, traveling, and spending time with her family. Her favorite movie is The Great Gatsby, and her favorite books are the Harry Potter series.
Lissette Uribe, MSW, LSW (She/Her)
Associate Behavioral Health Therapist
Lissette joined the Dream Team in April 2022 as an Engagement Specialist and joined the Clinical Team as a Systems Advocacy Intern in August 2023. She is originally from Los Angeles, California, and has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and is in the process of pursuing her Master of Social Work Degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver.
Lissette is passionate about working with youth and working alongside them to see their potential and sharing new experiences with them! She is excited to join the Dream Team and work with like-minded individuals and youth to create a bright and more inclusive future.
In her free time, Lissette likes to cook, be with her friends and work on charcoal drawings!
Megan Gianinetti, MSW, LSW (She/Her)
Behavioral Health Therapist II
As a Behavioral Health Therapist, Megan supports kids, teens, and their families through tough moments and major life transitions. She loves showing up as a steady, calming presence and watching young people discover new ways to cope, grow, and thrive.
Megan holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver, is a Licensed Social Worker, and is trained in EMDR. Her work is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to each client rather than one-size-fits-all. She believes therapy is a two-way relationship and learns from the people she works with every day, especially teens and young adults exploring identity and relationships.
Megan was inspired to enter the mental health field through coaching volleyball and seeing young people grow in confidence, as well as witnessing mental health struggles in her own family. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her people, being in nature, playing volleyball, traveling, and exploring new cultures. Two of her favorite books are Remarkably Bright Creatures and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow.
Rysa Bryan (She/Her)
Clinical Intern
As a Clinical Intern, Rysa provides trauma-informed therapy to youth, supporting their emotional and relational well-being. She also collaborates with staff and families on intakes and treatment planning.
She is completing a Master’s in International Disaster Psychology at the University of Denver and holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Science with minors in Psychology and Political Science. Her experience includes work with trauma, grief, and complex stressors using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and mindfulness-based strategies.
Her approach is grounded in trust, empathy, and cultural humility, and she aims to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where youth feel seen and supported. Outside of work, Rysa enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, being outdoors, reading and audiobooks, Asian dramas, and creative outlets like photography and painting.
Sophie Silver, MA LPC NCC ACS (She/Her)
Manager, Therapeutic Services
As Therapeutic Services Manager, Sophie oversees clinical services and leads the Clinical Internship program, helping prepare the next generation of mental health professionals. She joined the organization in February 2020 after working as a Mental Health Counselor in the Pediatric Mental Health Institute at Children’s Hospital Colorado.
Sophie is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and a nationally certified counselor. She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Denver. She has extensive experience supporting youth through grief and loss and has contributed to 15 published articles in behavioral health and engineering.
Originally from Denver, Sophie brings humility, empathy, and a calm presence to her work and is committed to creating spaces where people can be authentic and supported. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring Denver and the mountains with her husband, daughter, and their dog, Olive.
Stephanie Dreiling (She/Her)
Senior Director, Development & Engagement
As Senior Director of Development & Engagement, Steph leads efforts to grow Colorado LiftED Foundation’s resources and relationships so more youth and families can access programs that support their long-term success. She oversees fundraising, stewardship, and community engagement, bringing a thoughtful, relationship-centered lens to every partnership.
Steph joined the organization in 2008 and has held several leadership roles, giving her a deep understanding of both its day-to-day work and long-term vision. A fourth-generation Coloradoan, she spent nearly a decade in Maui, Hawaii, working with Paradise Television and the Pacific Whale Foundation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations and Advertising and a minor in Sociology from the University of Northern Colorado.
Outside of work, Steph enjoys time with family and friends, exploring the mountains, and experiencing live music.
Will Murphy (He/Him)
Clinical Intern
BIO COMING SOON!
Zoraya Martinez (She/Her)
Instructor
BIO COMING SOON!