Meet Danni: Building Community One Volunteer at a Time

When you meet Danni, it's easy to see why so many of our volunteers feel right at home. As our Volunteer & Client Manager, she's often the very first person new volunteers meet, welcoming them with warmth, answering their questions, and helping them feel like an important part of our mission from the very beginning.

While Danni now spends her days coordinating volunteers and supporting our neighbors, her journey to Coal Creek Meals on Wheels started more than 1,000 miles away in California. She studied Marine Biology at California State University, Monterey Bay, where her love of the ocean led to unforgettable experiences, including working with sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium and helping train sea lions with a nonprofit organization.

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought her back to Colorado, Danni found the opportunity to combine her nonprofit experience with a mission that already held a special place in her heart. Having grown up in a family deeply involved with Meals on Wheels, she already understood the difference volunteers can make in people's lives.

Today, that passion is reflected in the relationships she builds with every volunteer who walks through our doors.

Danni shares, "My favorite part of my role is getting to interact with all the volunteers, learning about their lives, and being able to cultivate a community with all of us here for one goal."

Whether she's welcoming a new volunteer, checking in with longtime drivers, or helping connect our neighbors with the support they need, Danni believes relationships are at the heart of Coal Creek Meals on Wheels.

Outside of work, Danni loves spending time in nature and visiting the ocean whenever she can. She recently got married, has a cat she adores, and—according to her—is exceptionally good at ping pong.

What the Team Says About Danni

"Danni is the heartbeat of our organization. Each year, she builds relationships with more than 300 volunteers, making each volunteer feel welcomed, valued, and connected to our mission. Simply put, we couldn't do this work without her." - Nate Broeckert, Chief Executive Officer

"Danni is such an amazing asset to our team. She is organized, calm, and always brings a sense of steadiness to everything she does. As our Volunteer & Client Manager, she consistently goes above and beyond to support both our clients and volunteers with professionalism, compassion, and care. It's been an absolute honor to work alongside her, and I'm so grateful for everything she contributes to our team." - Emma Gaulin, Director of Programs

"I have a lot I could say about our darling Danni, but one of my favorite things about her is her calm, laid-back personality and demeanor. She's so kind and easygoing, and I look forward to being around that energy every day." - Dani Shafer, Senior Manager of Culinary/Head Chef

We're grateful for the energy, kindness, and sense of community Danni brings to Coal Creek Meals on Wheels every day. If you've volunteered with us, chances are you've experienced her warmth firsthand—and if you haven't yet, she'd love to welcome you to the team.

Inspired by Danni's story? We'd love to have you join our volunteer community.

Ready to get started? Sign up here to volunteer today.