Tamara Queen President learn more
Tamara graduated from Colorado State University in 2003 with a bachelor's degree in social work. After graduating, she worked at a domestic violence agency that provided support to victims of domestic violence through counseling and a transitional living center. After taking a brief hiatus to travel Europe, Tamara resumed her social work career by working for Delta County as a child protection caseworker for six years and transitioning to Ariel Clinical Services where she worked as a supervisor for their foster care and adult services programs. After being in the child welfare system for fifteen years, she left Ariel to pursue her passion for fitness and nutrition. She is now a nutrition coach with Atlas Nutrition and works part-time for her family's business. Tamara is excited about her role as a Families Plus board member as it provides a different avenue to support the families in our community and help improve future generations' lives. 
Al HALE tREASURER LEARN MORE
With a mechanical engineering degree and extensive skills in strategic planning, Al brings a wealth of experience to the Families Plus board of directors. After retiring as Director of Operations for several manufacturing plants he now serves as Treasurer for a fire protection district. He has also served as a firefighter, fire truck mechanic, and engineered a lake aeration system. As a father and grandfather, he can empathize with families in Delta County communities who are struggling to raise their children amid difficult economic and emotional situations. He adds, “I feel my business background would be useful for helping the Families Plus organization to continue to grow.” Al enjoys traveling to new places, camping, hiking, and ATVing. MARLA CARLSON MEMBER LEARN MORE
GEORGE RODRIQUEZ MEMBER LEARN MORE
KEVIN PARKS CONSULTANT LEARN MORE
AMANDA LOVETTE MEMBER LEARN MORE
Dr. Amanda Lovette is a pediatrician at Delta Health with over 20 years of experience caring for children. She graduated from Baylor University and did her medical training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. She moved to Western Colorado in 2021 and has been dedicated to improving the lives and situations of children in this community since she arrived. Known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach, she has positively impacted countless families. Her expertise extends beyond medicine into personal development, where she has experience as a life coach with her husband’s company. A lifelong learner, Dr. Lovette challenges herself to master a new skill every year. Her hobbies include photography, skiing, hiking, and travel, all of which fuel her curiosity and sense of adventure. She finds joy in exploring the world, capturing meaningful moments, and embracing the beauty of Colorado’s landscapes. Dr. Lovette’s dedication to medicine, coaching, and continuous self-improvement makes her a valued leader. Whether she’s caring for a child, coaching a client, or learning something new, she approaches every endeavor with passion, empathy, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential. The opportunity to participate on the board of Families Plus is another chance to serve the families of this community in a meaningful and beneficial way. |
Karen Benson Vice President Learn More
Karen, formally an elementary school teacher shifted to substitute teaching and tutoring while she raised her young family but remained active in education by volunteering on various school committees. Karen is business-minded; she owned a dress boutique and is currently working with her husband in their family business, Benson Brothers LLC as the financial manager and bookkeeper for over 40 years. As a local businesswoman, she actively promotes her community through many organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce. Karen became involved with Families Plus in 2011 as a youth mentor and has continued that relationship. Karen enjoys traveling, motorcycling, time outdoors, crafting, concerts, dancing, and most importantly spending time with her grandchildren. Karen is passionate about helping children and young adults. "I strongly believe that Families Plus is a much needed organization and a true blessing to families in our community." RAUL OLIVA SECRETARY LEARN MORE
DAVE ARMLOVICH MEMBER LEARN MORE
Dave is a retired Forest Service Resource Manager who began working with Families Plus as its Webmaster in 2008. He has volunteered for Big Brothers, and Meals on Wheels. Dave firmly believes that volunteering for agencies that promote community well-being is an important aspect of everyone’s life. He adds, “I have come to understand the importance of having an organization like Families Plus that promotes the mentoring of families and children that need extra help.” He enjoys many outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, and rafting. He is also learning to play the guitar. MARIA FORSTER MEMBER LEARN MORE
JO LANCE CONSULTANT LEARN MORE
JOHN VANDENBERG CONSULTANT LEARN MORE
Dr. VanDenBerg is a volunteer consultant to the Families Plus Board of Directors. He is a pioneer in the development and improvement of the wrap-around process (obtainable and continued medical, dental, and mental health resources for at-risk children living in poverty). Programs using this concept now reach over a half-million people worldwide. He has consulted with federal, state, and local governmental agencies for child welfare, juvenile justice, mental health education, and developmental disabilities. Dr. VanDenBerg’s focus is to help Families Plus assist Delta County communities in developing and using more informal resources and strengths-based planning methods when developing integrated individualized service and support plans. |