Erika joined GOCO earlier this summer, diving right into things with her first day being our June board meeting! Erika's work supports our youth-focused grant programs, including the cornerstone Inspire Initiative from our five-year strategic plan and the School Yard Initiative that has transformed playgrounds and school play yards around the state.

What did you do before you came to GOCO?

I was working in the education sphere for the last seven years in a variety of roles. Before moving back to Colorado, I was was the program coordinator at the Advocacy Lab in NYC and I taught human rights curriculum to at-risk youth. When I came back to Colorado, I started as the Project Manager at Get Smart Schools through the AmeriCorps VISTA program.

What brought you to GOCO? 

After working in education for years, I was looking for a place where I could use my skills and passions to connect with others while furthering my commitment to meaningful outdoor experiences, health, and wellness. GOCO’s mission was the perfect fit and it's an honor to work here.

What has been your favorite part of working here so far?

I get to work inspiring people, in the office and out of it! From our staff to our board members, and other partners we work with, everyone is amazing.

What is your typical day like?

GOCO is an amazing place to work! Every day is a little bit different. I’ve mostly been working on the School Yard Initiative and the Inspire Initiative, helping with grant administration and getting to know the people working so hard to make things happen across the state.

What are some of your favorite things to do outdoors?

I love to be outdoors as much as possible and I try to fill my weekends with any outdoor activity, whether it’s hiking, biking, running or trying to trim some strokes off my golf game.

Where is your favorite place to get outdoors in Colorado?

Colorado has so many beautiful places, and as a native I’ve been able to visit many of them. Currently, I love accessing the trails and reservoirs near me in Aurora and in the metro area. But, I’m really looking forward to getting to know more trails and park around the state, especially the ones GOCO has helped funded.

What is your most memorable outdoors mishap?

You don’t want to know. But, I’ll share a somewhat related funny story. When I was a kid, we’d spend a few weeks in the summer in Minnesota with my family. After being eaten alive by mosquitos on afternoon I layered on the Cortizone anti-itch cream. I put so much on, I couldn’t feel my legs and thought I was paralyzed!

What is the coolest wildlife you have spotted in Colorado?

Seeing bison before climbing Mount Bierstadt. Their size alone is incredible!