Our Mission

We are excited to create a vibrant and inviting community hub in Salida that nourishes the body, mind, and spirit through delicious food, friendships, and a passion for lifelong learning!

We believe every person deserves dignity, friendship, and purpose — no matter their age or financial means. Our goal is to reduce isolation, promote wellness, and foster intergenerational connection in our valley.

Partnerships

We are a nonprofit organization located in the heart of downtown Salida, Colorado. For decades, the Center has been a hub for meals, wellness, education, arts, and community connection. We exist because of the generosity of donors, the dedication of volunteers, and the strength of partnerships with groups like the Central Colorado Humanists, Care and Share Food Bank, and many local nonprofits

👥 Our Board of Directors

The Salida Community Center is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who give their time, energy, and heart to keep our mission thriving. These are the neighbors who help shape our vision, ensure we remain a safe and welcoming space, and work tirelessly to support the programs and events that bring Salida together. Their leadership isn’t just about making decisions — it’s about building community. 🏔️❤️

President

Dan Ridenour

has been in radio and television broadcasting for nearly 50 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma and, eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club, and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and a Vaquero, and ambassador to the Salida Chamber of Commerce. He and his wife, Carrie, spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. They’ve raised three children and have two grandchildren.

Vice-President

Paul Smith

served as board member since 2014.

Salida Resident since 2013. – U.S. Navy Veteran. 30 years of work in environmental/public health in New York State. Served twelve years as summer seasonal marine. Patrol Officer for Lake George Park Commission. Ten years at National Restaurant Association “Serve Safe Instructor”. Also affiliated with other Salida Organization such as Greater Arkansas River Nature Association, Central Colorado Mountain Riders, and volunteer for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

SCC Member

Doug Rausch

Chemical Engineer, retired. Technical lead and volunteer for local, community radio station, KHEN. Hobbies include bicycling, brewing, traveling, and home repair. Recently taken on fund raising "Flag Program" for SCC. American Flags distributed and displayed at local businesses 6 times a year.

Community Director

Elaine Allemang

Business manager for 7 years for a large oil company. I worked for USDA/FSA handling government farm programs for 12 years. When I came to Salida in 2002 I became part owner of a successful business and became involved in the community through Salida Rotary Club, Salida Community Center, Forward Operating Base and other organizations. I was president of the Salida Rotary Club in 2012-2013. I organized several successful events including the Arkansas River Double Haul, Fallen Bikers Memorial Rally, Bluegrass on the Arkansas and the Colorado Grand. Several of her accomplishments include Woman of the Year 2015, Hardest Working Volunteer in Salida for 2017 and 2018 and the Al Berger Service in Aging Award by the Colorado Gerontological Society for 2017. Became a member of the board of the Salida Senior Citizens, Inc. in 2009 and served as president of the Board for several years. Volunteered as Director at the Center since 2012.

Board Member

Vickie Sue Vigil

I pride myself on believing and working in our community to help make it a wonderful place to call home. That is why my work commitment at the newspaper for 41 years and as president of the Salida Business Alliance for 17 years show how much I love this community. I love rolling up my sleeves and getting busy in such activities as the Holiday festivities, July 4th and beautification projects around town.So joining the board at the Salida Community Center was a natural for me. They are involved in some pretty awesome projects such as distributing our flags on holidays, entertaining the area children at the annual Easter egg hunt, and volunteering to help other organizations for the benefit of the community. If I can help by volunteering for a project or for fundraising I am there. It is nice belonging to an organization that realizes how important it is to work for all other organizations to continue being a positive force in the community. It's all about enriching our town for ourselves and others.