Staff

The Arc PPR Executive Director Wilfred Romero

Wilfred Romero

Executive Director

Wilfred has been a resident of Colorado Springs since June 2001. He has 25 years of experience leading non-profit organizations that provide services to individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Wilfred holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Organizational Management in Human Resources.

In Wilfred’s previous position with Booz Allen Hamilton, he provided training and technical assistance to non-profit agencies’ management teams as a Grantee Specialist. Wilfred’s area of expertise is program Design and Management.

Wilfred considers one his greatest achievements to be the opening of a Boys & Girls Club of Cheyenne in the low-income neighborhood where he grew up. The Boys & Girls Club of Cheyenne now serves over 3,000 youth members in Cheyenne, WY.

Wilfred is excited about his position as Executive Director and is committed to leading The Arc Pikes Peak Region to new heights.

Christina Butero

NCG Guardianship Coordinator

Christina has worked with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a variety of roles for over 27 years. Christina has been employed with The Arc Pikes Peak Region for nearly 16 years. Christina is a nationally certified guardian through the Center for Guardianship Certification.

 She is a member of the Pikes Peak Elder Abuse Coalition Fiduciary Training Committee. She also serves on the Human Rights Committee (HRC) with The Resource Exchange.

Christina earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Psychology from Trinidad State Junior College and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mass Communication with an emphasis in Public Relations from the University of Southern Colorado (renamed Colorado State University at Pueblo). She received The Arc PPR’s Don Haney Award for community service in 2005 and the President’s Award in 2012. Christina’s true passion is fighting for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Christina was born and raised in Southern Colorado. She is an avid sports fan. Christina’s most important role is Tia to her nieces and nephew.

Daryl Trujillo 

Advocacy Coordinator

Daryl has always felt a special calling and deep commitment to working with people of varying abilities, as she grew up among family members with autism and cerebral palsy.  A retired educator with over 31 years of experience working with children and families, she served as a teacher, school psychologist, school district administrator, and early childhood program manager at the Colorado Department of Education throughout a long and rewarding career.

A bilingual Spanish speaker, Daryl is passionate about advocating for children and families who have been historically disenfranchised and who have experienced extreme social challenges and a lack of inclusion across systems.

Daryl is honored to serve as the Advocacy Coordinator for The Arc Pikes Peak Region, where she works to continuously improve support to families by implementing responsive and informed practices in the Advocacy Department and Succeeding in School and Life: A Parent Empowerment Program. She holds a B.A. in Latin American Studies and International Relations from Bucknell University and an Ed.S. in School Psychology from the University of Central Florida.

Daryl lives with her husband, two adult daughters, and her three grandchildren in an intergenerational household.  She is blessed by her strong faith and the love, energy, and laughter her family brings!

Cody Ehrastom

Advocacy Specialist

Cody has devoted his professional career to working with children and adults with exceptional needs. While his passion and experience span across all age groups, he specializes in supporting elementary and preschool-aged children. With years of experience as a School Psychologist, In-Home Behavioral Therapist, and Programs Manager at a Behavior Clinic, Cody has gained a comprehensive understanding of the various accommodations and supports that individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities can utilize to successfully engage with and navigate the world around them.

Cody is dedicated to serving our community by enhancing systems that support students in schools, with a focus on fostering meaningful participation and inclusion. His approach centers on empowering parents by equipping them with the knowledge and resources necessary to understand educational evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 plans, parental rights, and the responsibilities of schools.

Cody holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Fresno State University and a Master’s degree in School Psychology from Humboldt State University. His academic focus specialized in supporting children with Autism and young adults with intensive behavioral needs. Committed to continuous growth, Cody actively seeks out training opportunities to enhance his ability to provide effective guidance these and other areas that impact families.

In his free time, Cody enjoys spending quality time with his wonderful wife and two energetic dogs. He stays up to date on changes in Special Education Law and is also working on learning to speak Mandarin.

The Arc PPR Advocacy Specialist Daniel Barriera

Danny Barriera

Advocacy Specialist

As a dedicated advocate for The Arc Pikes Peak Region, Danny brings 20 plus years of experience in championing the rights and needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

With a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by this community, he has developed a strong commitment to amplifying voices, building support and driving positive change.

Throughout his career, Danny has worked closely with this community, it’s leaders, organizations, and individuals to identify and address pressing concerns.

He has also built strong relationships with the individuals he serves and community allies to advance the cause, all while providing supports and resources to empower individuals to advocate for themselves.

Pete Boryla

Advocacy Specialist

Born and raised in the Denver metro area, Pete understands, from personal experience, the challenges that families of children with disabilities face.  A sibling of a brother with Down Syndrome, Pete is passionate about people who have often been marginalized in society. Pete’s overall goal is to help bring dignity to people with disabilities and to help others see that those with disabilities are unique individuals who bring their strengths and gifts to the table but who are often not afforded opportunities due to social stigmas. 

Alongside his work in Educational Advocacy, where he empowers parents to navigate the educational system and become their child’s strongest advocate, Pete also serves as the Advisor to the local chapter of Speaking For Ourselves, a national self-advocacy organization for adults with disabilities.  Drawing on his personal experience growing up with his brother, Pete has witnessed the transformative power of meaningful inclusion and tirelessly advocates for improved buy-in and meaningful support across educational and community systems. 

Pete’s academic and professional journey is a testament to his dedication. He holds a B.A. in Communication from Colorado State University, Fort Collins. He was honored to be a Family Fellow at the University of Colorado Anschutz in their Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disorders program. Since 2014, Pete has been actively involved in the disability system, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to his advocacy work.

Pete’s life anchors are his faith and spending time with his beautiful wife, family, and friends. He enjoys reading, traveling, running, hiking, and sports.

Francisca Saenz

Bilingual Advocacy Specialist/School and Life Program 

Francisca Saenz is driven by a deep passion to positively impact families with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a mother of a 20-year-old daughter with Down syndrome, Francisca understands firsthand the unique challenges and joys that come with raising a child with special needs. With a firm belief that everyone has a gift to share, she is committed to motivating and inspiring parents as they help their children to realize their true potential. Francisca aims to create lasting change in the lives of children and families, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and empowered.

Born in Mexico and raised in Texas, Francisca is bilingual in Spanish and English. She is currently working towards her degree in teaching with a focus on Special Education. Her academic studies, combined with hands-on experience gained from working in special education classrooms, give her a strong foundation rooted in real-world experience. As a dedicated advocate, Francisca is committed to making a positive impact, providing resources, guidance, and a listening ear to those who need it most.

Francisca is deeply faith-driven and grateful for God’s blessings, which guide her every day. Married for 20 wonderful years, she is blessed with a son and daughter who bring her endless joy. She cherishes family time, whether it’s traveling, hiking, dining out, or enjoying movies together.

 

 
 

Cheryl Potman

Community Engagement/Cool C.A.T.S. Assistant 

Cheryl Potman brings over 40 years of experience in education leadership, nonprofit management, and event coordination to The Arc PPR.   After working 31 years in special education, Cheryl is passionate about building relationships and fostering inclusive environments. She has spent several years in non-profits where improving and enriching children and young people’s lives were the mission.  During these years she successfully led fundraising events that generated a significant portion of the organization’s annual revenue. 

Cheryl is known for her strong communication skills, organizational expertise, and ability to lead high-functioning teams. She has a proven track record in donor relations, volunteer engagement, and creating events that leave lasting impressions while cultivating community support. Her proactive mindset and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset to any mission-driven organization.  Cheryl believes she has finally come home and is thrilled to be part of the staff at The Arc-PPR. 

Amanda Boucher

Family Engagement Specialist

A proud Colorado Springs native, Amanda has long been driven by a deep passion for advocating on behalf of underrepresented and marginalized communities. This commitment naturally led her to The Arc Pikes Peak Region, where her personal values seamlessly align with the organization’s mission of promoting the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and supporting their full inclusion in all aspects of community life.

Amanda’s passion is not just professional- it’s personal. Drawing from her own lived experience, she understands the importance of safe, welcoming spaces where families can find connection, support, and a place to celebrate their loved ones for the unique strengths and gifts they bring to the world. She is devoted to creating environments where everyone feels heard, seen, and valued, no matter the situation.

A recent graduate of Grand Canyon University, Amanda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Legal Studies with a minor in Social Work. Her academic background, combined with her heart for service, uniquely equips her to thrive in her role as Family Engagement Specialist for the Succeeding in School and Life program. In this position, she brings together her education, lived experience, and innate calling to support families and empower young people.

When she’s not working, Amanda enjoys hiking Colorado’s scenic trails, hitting the gym, diving into legal case studies, and spending time with friends.

Amy Hagerman

Guardianship Specialist

Amy was born in Hong Kong but grew up in Fort Collins Colorado since the age of three. She graduated from Colorado State University in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She has worked for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and their families in an array of positions since February 1998.

Amy joined The Arc of the Pikes Peak Region in October 2021, with the hopes of utilizing her professional and personal experiences to advocate and enhance the lives of individuals with IDD. Amy enjoys her personal time by spending time with her family which consists of her Husband, 3 daughters and a menagerie of pets.

 

The Arc PPR Guardianship Specialist Amber Spinks

Amber Spinks

Guardianship Specialist

Amber was called to serve individuals with Intellectual and Developmental disabilities in 2007 and has been working for The Arc Pikes Peak Region as a Guardianship Specialist since 2011. Her desire was to work for an organization where she was able to pursue her passion of being able to advocate and enhance the lives of the individuals she serves. 

Amber has worked hard in building strong relationships with the individuals, as well as community partnerships.

Amber enjoys spending time with her family, spoiling her dog, Barkley, attending to her new hobby of collecting plants and gardening, going on trips, and anything else that sparks her interests.

Morgan Wiese

Communications Manager/Office Manager

With a passion for creating authentic relationships through various platforms, Morgan knew she wanted to work with an organization that prioritized uplifting underrepresented populations.

She graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Public Relations, a minor in Theatre, and a certificate in New Media in May 2022 before taking a leap of faith and moving to Colorado Springs.

She started working with The Arc Pikes Peak Region as the Communications/Office Manager in February 2023, and feels so lucky to join such an incredible team and community. She looks forward to learning more from people in the IDD community and searching for ways to engage more people in The Arc-PPRs mission.

In her free time, you can find Morgan belting out a Broadway song, on a long hike, or doing arts and crafts!

Grace Trujillo

Administrative Assistant

 
Grace is honored to serve and support everyone with whom she interacts as the Administrative Assistant at The Arc Pikes Peak Region.  She brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by people who are often misunderstood and unseen.
 
Grace is committed to working for an organization that advocates for people with varying abilities and believes that there needs to be more opportunities for the voices and skills of the disability community to become integrated into their local communities.
Grace uses her gifts, strengths, and passion to ensure that everyone with whom she interacts feels valued, important, and respected.

In her free time, Grace enjoys painting, crocheting, baking culinary delights, reading, and hanging out with her family.

The Arc PPR Staff Amanda Blakely

Amanda Blakely

Clerical Support

Amanda is one of The Arc Pikes Peak Region’s longest serving employees. At the office Amanda helps the staff by providing clerical support and assisting with various tasks.

Amanda enjoys working at The Arc PPR  particularly the social events we sponsor. Outside of work Amanda enjoys volunteering at the library, swimming, reading, listening to music and playing with her dog Cody.

Vincent Egan The Arc PPR Colorado Springs Special Olympics

Vincent Egan

Front Desk Specialist

Vincent Egan, is proud to represent the Arc Pikes Peak Region. Born and raised in Colorado Springs, graduate of Palmer High School and year-round Special Olympic Athlete and Athlete Leader for 19+ years, he’s kept very busy! 

Served on the Special Olympics Colorado Board of Directors, a graduate of the first class from Special Olympics Athlete Leadership University. Honored to represent Special Olympics at three World Games; Los Angeles, Austria and Abu Dhabi and 2 National Games, Nebraska and Florida. Vincent is also a seasonal employee at Eisenhower Golf Course at the Air Force Academy. Volunteers at his church, loves to hang out with friends and family and in his free time can be found on the golf course!

Succeeding in School and Life Educational Navigator Staff

Robert Lewis

Educational Navigator

Robert is a retired Special Education teacher in the state of Colorado and Texas. As a sibling to a brother with moderate to severe physical and intellectual disabilities, and the father of a son with high-functioning autism, he offers an in depth perspective as a parent, brother and educator working with and serving individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.

During his 25-year career as a member of the US Air Force, Robert observed his son in different school systems both in the United States and England and applied those experiences when teaching students with various learning challenges. His belief is that all kids can learn and grow when given the opportunity and provided positive support. In his spare time, Robert enjoys cooking, running, hiking, and spending time with his family and friends.

Tom Bianca

Educational Navigator

Tom is a retired educator and life-long learner with over 25 years supporting learners of all ability levels. Additionally, he is the parent of an adult son with IDD and can relate to what you are experiencing. Tom has a Master’s Degree in Special Education with a K-12 certification and 15+ years of experience helping learners of all grades and ability levels in the resource room, and working collaboratively with general education teachers and especially parents to meet the needs of students and help all learners progress towards their potential.

Tom has continued to remain active after retirement, working with students and young adults in various capacities including a mentor, job coach, and tutor.

His experience reinforces his belief that all individuals can learn, and in the importance of collaboration between schools, parents, and agencies. As a result of this collaboration, children are better able to have their educational and social-emotional needs met and reach their individual potential.

In his free time, Tom enjoys spending time with his two adult sons, activities with his three grandchildren, spending time and traveling with his wife, and pursuing several life-long hobbies.

Erika Slaughter

Educational Navigator

Erika Slaughter is a mother of three and a former school district administrator with a strong background in education and advocacy. Her passion for supporting individuals with disabilities is deeply personal—her oldest daughter lives with Cerebral Palsy and a cognitive disability. Erika brings her experience and heart for advocacy to her role at The Arc, where she helps families navigate the educational system and access the support they need. 

Erika is committed to empowering others, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to thrive. 

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