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Director of Programs & Services
Adrian brings over 20 years of experience in program development, strategic planning, and community engagement. With a background in corporate social responsibility, nonprofit leadership, and business innovation, they’re passionate about building impactful programs that support diverse communities. Their work also includes consulting, marketing, education, and operations—always focused on people-centered change.
A lifelong learner, Adrian has studied Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Communication, EFL/ESL Teaching, and Neuropsychology. They’re actively involved in community service across the U.S. and Mexico, supporting causes like mental health, LGBTQIA2S+ advocacy, environmental efforts, and disaster relief.
Outside of work, Adrian enjoys creative projects, making music, practicing yoga, running, and dancing. They also love cooking or baking—especially with music playing in the background!
Independent Living Specialist
Aj completed his internship with Connections for his Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree from the University of Northern Colorado in 2021. He is a full-time Independent Living Specialist. AJ helps consumers create independent living plans through identifying areas of need. He assists the consumer with completing their goals by offering information, referrals and resources. In his free time AJ enjoys spending time outdoors fishing and playing sports. He is a huge fan of all Colorado sports teams and has a hobby of collecting sports trading cards. When asked what he likes most about working at Connections, AJ said, “Hands down, the people. I enjoy working with both consumers and staff.”
Office & Housing Assistant
Alexis was born and raised in Greeley. He graduated from Greeley Central High School. He feels Connections will be a great fit for him because of the efforts towards the disabled community. Alexis is the voice you hear when you call and the first face you see when you walk into Connections. He conducts all pre-intakes for potential consumers. Alexis also helps assist the Housing Coordinator with the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8).
Independent Living Specialist
Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from University of Northern Colorado. Amber has training in employment benefits specific to serving people with disabilities.
Independent Living Specialist
Dan has lived in Colorado since 1970. He holds bachelor’s degrees in Kinesiology from the University of Northern Colorado and in Computer Science from Colorado State University. He has served for over 10 years on the Board of Directors for a Center for Independent Living and is currently in his third year as a member of the Colorado Statewide Independent Living Council.
Dan serves Connections as an Independent Living Specialist, bringing with him a 27-year career as a software engineer in the technology industry. Prior to that, he was a World Championship and Paralympic champion Alpine ski racer with the U.S. Disabled Ski Team.
Housing Coordinator
Dianna holds an associate’s degree in Computer Information Systems and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Colorado State University. Dianna manages Connections’ Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), which includes the State Housing Vouchers and Emergency Vouchers that assist disabled individuals in Weld County, oversees new voucher eligibility and briefings, housing admissions, annual reexaminations and conducts annual quality inspections of housing units. Dianna is certified by Colorado’s Division of Housing.
Communications & Independent Living Community Coordinator
Jessica is a “Jill of all trades” who has served Connections in numerous capacities. As Connections’ Community Coordinator, she manages many projects for the organization. She also represents Connections at public functions in Northeastern Colorado communities.
Outreach Coordinator
Kevin provides critical services and support to northeastern Colorado residents who live with disabilities. Kevin has degrees from Aims Community College and Colorado State University, and has experience working in mental health, and with people with developmental disabilities. Kevin leads Connection’s Brain Injury Group of Greeley.
Independent Living Specialist & Veterans Independence Program Specialist
With eight years of experience in nonprofit long-term care, Kimberly is excited to help Veterans stay independent at home. A Morgan County, Colorado native, she looks forward to bringing resources to rural communities across the state and beyond. As an Edan Associate from Edam Alternative, she brings expertise in person-centered care through the Veterans Independence Program.
Kimberly has worked closely with Restorative Therapy Professionals to support safe, independent living environments. She holds a QMAP certification, has completed CPI training, and has participated in two Dementia Care programs—demonstrating her commitment to quality care and strong problem-solving skills.
Independent Living Specialist
Maria earned a bachelor’s degree in human services and was a participant in University of Northern Colorado’s Stryker Institute for Leadership and Development. Maria was previously employed by the Department of Human Services for both Weld and Adams counties and served in the Wound Care Services department at Northern Colorado Medical Center.
Transition Supervisor
As Transition Coordinator, Peggy supports seniors and people with disabilities as they transition from nursing facilities to living independently. As the Connect with Friends Program Specialist, she directs this important program. Peggy loves helping people and has volunteered for over two decades in her home school district. Peggy holds a bachelor’s degree in system management from Colorado State University.
Chief Executive Officer
Rochelle is a 20+ veteran of the nonprofit sector, having held leadership positions with the Douglas County Community Foundation, High Plains Library District, Weld Community Foundation, Right to Read, and Larimer Humane Society. She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia and CSU, and holds advanced certificates in project management and nonprofit administration.
Independent Living Specialist
Ryan has a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology through the University of Northern Colorado. He is an experienced advocate for people with disabilities. He has worked with special education, adaptive recreation, case management and direct care services.
Finance Assistant
Stephanie graduated from Thompson Valley High School and came to Connections with three years of customer service experience. Stephanie is also the first point of contact for information and referrals. She completes all pre-intakes for Connections and has an exceptional level of hospitality to all. Stephanie has also taken on accounts payables and receivables for the organization.
Chief Operating Officer
Yendra Ruiz Tencza brings a passion for people-centered design and equitable systems to her role at Connections for Independent Living.
Her educational background, including degrees in biology, statistics, and accounting, underscores her commitment to data-driven decision-making and holistic problem-solving. Her administrative career in nonprofit has spanned environmental, education, and transportation equity. This diverse foundation enables her to approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective, seeking innovative solutions that drive positive change.
When not working, she loves being outdoors with friends and family-walking, biking and being.
1331 8th Avenue
Greeley, Colorado 80631-4601
Phone: (970) 352-8682
Fax: (970) 353-8058
Email: info@connectionscolorado.org
Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m.
Friday Quiet Hours: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. No calls or meetings will be accepted.
In-person and remote services available.
