A multidisciplinary team connecting prevention, education, lived experience, food, gardens, and community across Southern Colorado.
Green Thumb Initiative is led by founders and practitioners who blend counseling, horticulture, culinary nutrition, and peer support.
Together they build stigma-free programs for youth, families, and communities in Canon City, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Southern Colorado.
Co-founder & CEO · Unlicensed Psychotherapist
Brian is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Green Thumb Initiative.
He holds a B.S. in Business Administration and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.
He served in the U.S. Army Special Forces (Green Berets) and is pursuing clinical psychology graduate study.
His background drives a practical focus on community prevention and quality of life in Southern Colorado.
Co-founder & Chief Clinical Officer · Dr. in Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences
Dr. Jenni is co-founder and Chief Clinical Officer of Green Thumb Initiative.
She holds a doctorate in Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences.
She is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addiction Counselor in the U.S.
She builds culturally aware prevention and collaborative human-services programs across Colorado and abroad.
Chef & Coach, Culinary Rx
Chef Ian leads culinary learning that builds nutrition skills, confidence, and healthier routines.
His Culinary Rx training connects food skills with physical and mental wellness goals.
He develops inclusive kitchen programs for families, including support for parents of kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Horticulture Lead & Certified Peer Coach
Brett is Head of Horticulture and a Certified Peer Coach at Green Thumb Initiative.
He teaches garden-based life skills through regenerative farming, permaculture, aquaponics, and hydroponics.
His work helps people reconnect with nature while building practical coping skills.
Behavioral Health Coach
Brandie supports GTI participants through behavioral health coaching in community wellness settings.
She helps people build practical coping skills, healthier routines, and meaningful connection.
Her coaching complements GTI prevention, horticulture, art, nutrition, and peer-support programs.
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate
Taylor earned a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate working toward full licensure under Dr. Jenni Guentcheva.
She supports individuals and families through community, prevention, and whole-person wellness.
GTI is a Southern Colorado nonprofit focused on prevention, cultural understanding, healthy coping, and community connection.
Programs may include horticulture, STEAM learning, culinary nutrition, art, mentorship, and peer-informed support.
We serve Canon City, Fremont County, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, El Paso County, and surrounding Southern Colorado communities.
Availability varies by program, location, partner, and season. Contact us for current details.
Use the contact form or call (719) 301-7676 with questions.
We welcome conversations with participants, families, schools, community groups, donors, and potential partners.
Ask about programs, participation, partnership, volunteering, or support for Green Thumb Initiative.
