Meet the Board

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As a former teen mom in foster care, I faced immense challenges—navigating life without support, stability, or resources. Two years ago, I felt a deep calling to create Bold Steps, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to helping teen moms in foster care gain the housing, education, and support they need to thrive. My journey from hardship to stability fuels my passion for ensuring no young mother faces these struggles alone. Bold Steps is my way of turning pain into purpose—helping others build a future filled with hope. 

Connect with me  on LinkedIn

Erin Dougan is the Director of Enterprise Sales for TalenTrust, a professional services firm that helps growing companies across the US “Solve the People Puzzle.” She joined TalenTrust in 2015 and is committed to helping companies achieve their business goals by putting people first. Erin also serves as a Colorado Forum Leader for WBEC-West (Women Business Enterprise Council-West) and was thrilled to join the Board of Bold Steps. She has worked in human resources, talent acquisition, sales, and client services in Colorado for over 20 years. She is a Colorado native and a proud alum of Colorado State University (GO RAMS!). At home, Erin is loved by her husband Henry, two sons, and their dogs. The Dougans have been members of the congregation at Church of the Ascension Episcopal since 2007 and serve on the Youth Committee, Altar Guild, Hospitality Committee and as Acolytes. Erin is committed to the faith-based mission of Bold Steps and is passionate about building strong, supportive, and interconnected communities in Colorado and beyond. Outside of work, you can find Erin at CSU football games, at the ballet, baking cookies, reading or cheering on her boys at Tae Kwon Do, swim team, wrestling or youth football. She is always up for coffee or wine with interesting and kind-hearted people who share her passions.  

Originally from Michigan, Tiair Champlin has called Florida’s Gulf Coast home for 24 years. Her passion for helping teens stems from her own experience as a misunderstood youth, inspiring her to support those who need someone to believe in them. With 18 years as a public-school teacher, specializing in students with behavioral and emotional challenges, she now applies her skills as a contract support specialist in the public sector. As Treasurer of Bold Steps, Tiair brings her organizational expertise and deep commitment to ensuring young mothers in foster care have the resources they need.

A book lover, hiking enthusiast, and writer, she also serves on the board of Emerald Coast Writers. Tiair is honored to be part of Bold Steps from the very beginning, helping pave the way for teen moms to take bold steps toward their futures

Michael French is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling and over 20 years of experience working directly with the public, including six years in a therapeutic setting. A former foster parent, Michael and his family opened their home to nearly 30 children, which deeply shaped his passion for supporting youth in foster care.

Today, he specializes in trauma-focused therapy and works closely with men navigating personal challenges to help break cycles of instability. As a board member of Bold Steps, Michael brings his counseling expertise, firsthand foster care experience, and deep commitment to advocating for foster children as they transition into independence.

A devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan, Michael enjoys writing, advocating for foster children, and helping families heal

 Jesse pastors at Life.Church South Denver and has been in professional ministry since 2012. Growing up on the mission field in Spain gave him a diverse, global perspective, and a deep heart for kids. He's worked with dozens of nonprofits in over 20 countries, witnessing the struggles of vulnerable youth firsthand. Beyond ministry, Jesse has an extensive background in filmmaking, co-owning a production house in Los Angeles and directing two feature length documentaries, so when he's not working with people to help them find God and find life, he's likely enjoying a great movie with his wife and friend 

Heather Taylor is the Founder and Principal of Impact Commercial Real Estate.  Born and raised in Colorado, Heather began her commercial real estate career in early 2009.  Prior to Heather’s real estate career, she received her Master’s Degree from Purdue University and had a very successful career in sales.  Heather and her family, built through adoption, live in Centennial, CO.  She enjoys family time and travel adventures. 

Toby Buchanan, PhD, MSW, MA, LMSW is Professor of Social Work, the Director of MSW Online Field Experiences and is the SME for Advanced Field Placements at Indiana Wesleyan University (national and global).  Dr. Buchanan currently lives in Castlerock, Colorado.  His experience in social work includes adoption and foster care, mental health and substance abuse, crisis/trauma counseling and school social work.  Dr. Buchanan has a passion for serving teens, or young adults in foster or institutionalized care