Staff
Vie Thorgren, D.Min. | Founder & Executive Director
When it comes to unaddressed social issues, Vie is a creative responder who takes delight in “coloring outside the lines.” She has over forty years of professional experience as an educator, trainer, workshop presenter, spiritual director, and retreat director on the local, national and international level, including cross-cultural experience in South Korea and Kenya. Her degrees in education, counseling psychology, and spiritual theology have developed her integrated thinking. Her expertise in the research, design, and implementation of programs to meet a variety of needs has taught her the irreplaceable value of relationships and personal contact for effective change. Her international experiences and her involvement with interfaith dialogue have enabled her to find linkages where others see barriers. Her outreach work in the contemporary marketplace has fostered a practical spirituality that is thorough and down to earth. It is the privilege of serving incarcerated women, however, that has made her “real” and the love of her husband, children, and grandchildren that has given her the joy and the freedom to serve others.
Amanda Lopez | Operations
Amanda’s introduction to Restoring Connections was at a workshop on Spirituality for Working People in 1997. The richness of the experience led her to become a volunteer with the organization. Mentoring incarcerated women captured her heart and spirit, and she has over twenty years’ experience in working with justice-involved women and the volunteers who mentor them. A Colorado native, Amanda can often be found paddling on a lake or hiking a trail with her family.
Amber Kelusky | Communications & Social Media
Amber was first drawn to Restoring Connections due to her passion for criminal justice reform. The spirituality element of mentoring women experiencing incarceration sealed the deal. A Texas native, Amber moved to Denver to pursue her Master’s Degree. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors, discovering delicious food, and spending time with her family.
Board of Directors
Kay Glunk, SCN | Chairperson
Kay is a sister of Charity of Nazareth, an international congregation, and has dedicated her life to living the Vincentian Spirit. Within her congregation, she has served in a variety of ministries and 17 years in Congregational leadership. She brings experience serving on numerous Boards and administrative experience which includes oversight of personnel, financials, and care of physical properties. She comes to us with international experience.