Staff

Grace Edinger

Senior Manager, Strategic Projects

Grace Edinger’s experience in leading outreach programs and conducting original research brings a suite of skills to program development. She graduated with a Master’s of Biology from the University of Alabama and holds a Bachelor’s of Zoology from Michigan State University. At Earth Force, she promotes program content creation and education research.

Jennifer Hanson

Operations Manager

Jennifer Hanson has 15 years of experience in nonprofit operations. She ensures all grant and budget requirements are met so that programs run smoothly and efficiently, having the highest possible impact.

Alyssa McConkey

Program Manager

Alyssa McConkey brings to our organization extensive experience in program and nonprofit management, as well as a passion for youth education and environmental justice. Her role at Earth Force is to cultivate and support program partnerships throughout North America.

Vince Meldrum

President/CEO

Vince is a leading advocate for the incorporation of youth voice and civic engagement into STEM and environmental education. Over the last 35 years Vince has taught, coached, developed programs, and managed organizations all with an eye toward preparing young people to be active participants in their community and our democracy.

Sarah Pacheco

Chief Operating Officer

Sarah Pacheco manages – at both a strategic and operational level – Earth Force’s key administrative functions, overseeing human resources, IT, finances, and business operations. Her role strengthens and aligns administrative and financial functions to ensure Earth Force programming is seamless.

Alexis Thorbecke

Program Manager

Alexis Thorbecke supports Earth Force teachers and student civic action projects throughout the Chesapeake Bay region. She draws on 8 years of experience as an environmental educator, interpretive coach, and behavior change research associate to further Earth Force’s mission. Alexis’ natural charisma shows in her consistently high marks for her professional development sessions.

Hayley Valley

Grant Writer

Hayley Valley provides leadership and coordination for all of Earth Force’s communications and fund development efforts. Her ability to work across all functions of the organization, as well as engage corporations, government agencies, and community partners is a key factor in Earth Force’s continued growth.

Justin Zakoren

Program Manager

Justin Zakoren brings five years of experience in working with educators, students, and community members from diverse settings. Drawing on his educational and environmental experience, he supports environmental education and civic action efforts in the Denver metro and Fort Collins areas.

Mailing Address: PO Box 1228, Denver, CO 80201 Physical Address: 135 Park Ave. West, Denver, CO 80205

earthforce@earthforce.org

1 303 433 0016