Leadership Team

Chalae Collard

Founder & CEO

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Chalae Collard, certified in Faith-Based Equine Assisted Philosophy (FBEAB), is the Founder and CEO of Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch. Inspired by her healing journey from traumas including domestic violence, PTSD, and sexual abuse, she founded the ranch to offer refuge and healing to women, children, and families. The ranch provides faith-based mental health and wellness programs, personal growth opportunities, and family-strengthening initiatives. From her childhood bond with her horse Tina, she learned about relationships, acceptance, and love, which inspired her work. Chalae has extensive ministry experience, developing and teaching Christian leadership skills to children and women, and contributing to a women’s mentoring program in Colorado. Her mission is to offer hope to those in a broken world and showcase the restorative power of God.

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Kristina Price

Ranch Program Director

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As a dynamic and compassionate leader dedicated to making a positive impact on communities, Kristina Price brings over 13 years of experience in nonprofit organizations with a focus on at-risk youth. Currently serving as the Programs Director at Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch (GOYR), Kristina has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to overcoming challenges to create transformative programs for children and families. Kristina is devoted to supporting the growth and expansion of Graceful Oaks. Her commitment ensures the organization’s continued positive impact on the community through the implementation of diverse and impactful programs.

Professional Journey
Since joining GOYR in 2020, Kristina has played a pivotal role in creating and overseeing programs. She established the Homeschool Ranch Adventure program and led the Hangin’ at the Ranch summer camp program. Her certifications as a Faith-Based Equine Assisted Philosophy Facilitator and in trauma-informed Equine Assisted Learning underline her dedication to help children and women find their worth, voice and strength through Empowerment Sessions.

A series of impactful roles mark Kristina’s career journey, each contributing to her growth as a leader and advocate for those in need. In her previous roles, she took on challenging tasks such as handling projects from multiple state education departments, overseeing and managing schedules for over 300 volunteers, coordinating events, and spearheading donor recognition programs.

One of Kristina’s more impactful roles was with the Boys & Girls Clubs. There, she demonstrated her dedication to youth development and community building. She managed the clubs’ daily operations, program implementation, and community collaborations. Kristina has also developed educational programs, led water monitoring activities, and overseen summer day camps, demonstrating her commitment to holistic youth development.

Community Involvement
Kristina extends her passion for community service beyond her professional roles. Currently serving with the Town of Johnstown, Colorado, and as a Board member for GOYR, she actively participates in other community groups, emphasizing her commitment to the well-being of the community.

Education
Kristina earned her Bachelor of Arts in Recreation Administration with a minor in Business Administration, demonstrating her commitment to a well-rounded and strategic approach to community service.

Kristina Price’s career journey reflects a tireless dedication to community service and a profound commitment to empowering individuals through innovative programs. Her holistic approach to community development and equine-assisted therapies makes her a transformative force in the nonprofit sector.

William Swansen

Business Advisor Consultant

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William (Bill) Swansen is a seasoned Career Advisor, Author, and Job Search Strategist with a passion for guiding individuals toward professional success. With a career spanning over four decades, William has honed his expertise in job search strategies, resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and career coaching. He has assisted individuals worldwide across various industries, helping them find their ideal career positions through a systematic approach. His methodology involves defining clear job search objectives, creating compelling career-related materials, identifying potential employers, preparing for interviews, and negotiating job offers.

Bill’s professional experience extends beyond career counseling. He has held various sales and management roles in the technology industry, working with major companies. During his tenure at these organizations, he demonstrated a keen ability to reduce clients’ costs, optimize business processes, and implement effective growth strategies.

In addition to his career advisory work, Bill has been deeply involved in volunteer efforts, particularly supporting youth who have experienced trauma or abuse. He has worked with organizations like Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch, Promises to Kids, and Just in Time, providing guidance and mentorship to challenged youth and helping them transition into adulthood. His commitment to helping others extends beyond professional development, as he seeks to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable young people in his community.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from the University of Connecticut and an MBA in Marketing from National University, Bill combines his academic background with his extensive professional experience to offer a unique and valuable perspective to the young people he works with. His comprehensive understanding of both the job market and business processes enables him to provide tailored advice and strategies that empower individuals to take control of their career paths.

Whether helping professionals land their dream jobs or supporting challenged youth in overcoming challenges, Bill is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those he works with. His compassionate approach, extensive business knowledge, and commitment to service make him a trusted advisor and mentor.