A man with dark hair, beard, and moustache standing outdoors on a dirt path with trees and houses in the background, wearing a black and purple plaid shirt.
A woman with long black hair, wearing a black blazer and black pants, sitting on a wooden stool with a light gray background.
A woman with dark hair, wearing a black T-shirt with 'Friends' written on it and black pants, sitting on a park bench with three young boys. The boys are dressed in colorful shirts and shorts, and are sitting on the bench. The woman appears to be smiling, and the boys are engaged in different activities as they sit outdoors on a sunny day with green grass and trees in the background.

  • Founder & President

    Nicole created this non-profit in loving memory of her father, who passed away in August 2014. After his passing, she found herself yearning for a place to feel closer to him—a physical space. To honor him and find a sense of closure, she raised funds to place a memorial bench in one of the city parks where he took his life. This bench became a personal sanctuary and a tangible connection to his memory—something she believes he would have truly appreciated.

    Nicole’s mission is to help others who have experienced the profound pain of losing a loved one to suicide find that same sense of closeness and healing.

    In addition, she is passionate about creating youth programs designed to support young people who have lost someone to suicide or are experiencing mental health struggles. These programs aim to help youth stay connected to caring individuals, reduce feelings of loneliness in their grief, and provide the support necessary to prevent future losses. It is Nicole’s hope that through these efforts, we can foster healing and resilience for the next generation.

  • Vice President

    Alexander Arellano brings both personal passion and professional expertise to the organization’s mission. A proud family man and father to energetic triplet boys, Alexander values the balance between his family life and his work. He has been part of the Colorado community since 2001, proudly calling the state his home.

    Professionally, Alexander has spent the last five years in the industrial services field, most of that time serving as an operations manager. His leadership experience, combined with his ability to navigate complex challenges, allows him to bring a steady and solutions-oriented perspective to the board.

    Having faced his own mental health struggles in the past, Alexander understands firsthand the challenges so many encounter. He is deeply grateful for the chance to serve others who are navigating the pain and struggles that come with losing loved ones to suicide. For him, this work is both meaningful and fulfilling—a way to bring hope and healing to the community he loves.

  • Treasurer

    Celeste brings over 17 years of leadership experience in financial services, community engagement, and nonprofit development. She has helped direct over $300,000 in charitable funds and has led initiatives that connect local businesses, chambers, and families to resources that create lasting impact.

    As Treasurer of the Suicide Loss Memorial Fund, Celeste is dedicated to ensuring strong financial stewardship and transparency, helping the organization honor lives lost, support healing, and bring hope to families affected by suicide. Her involvement reflects both her professional expertise and her personal commitment to building stronger, more compassionate communities.

    Outside of her board role, Celeste enjoys traveling and making memories with her son Itzae, volunteering locally, and exploring Colorado’s outdoors.