People Rooted in Purpose
Aspen Grove Community Center is led by dedicated professionals, community leaders, and partners who believe in the power of building community, consistency, and care.
Our Team
Our staff brings together experience, compassion, and a deep commitment to supporting teens and young adults. Each team member plays a vital role in creating a safe, nurturing environment where young people feel heard, respected, and encouraged.
We believe strong relationships are the foundation of meaningful impact, and our team shows up every day with care, consistency, and heart.
Lauren Symmonds Aboussie, LCSW
Founder/Executive Director
Lauren brings more than a decade of experience working alongside children, teens, and families to create supportive, preventative, and connection-driven programming.
Lauren’s commitment to youth development began abroad, volunteering in a children’s orphanage in Cochabamba, Bolivia. It was there that she discovered a deep passion for supporting adolescents as they navigate complex life circumstances, a passion that would shape her professional path. Upon returning to the United States, Lauren pursued a career in social work, first serving in an after-school program in Denver, Colorado. During this time, the vision for a holistic, community-based after-school model began to take root and continued to evolve over the next decade.
Board of Directors
Aspen Grove Community Center is guided by a Board of Directors made up of community leaders, professionals, and advocates who share a commitment to our mission and long-term sustainability.
The Board provides strategic leadership, governance, and stewardship to ensure Aspen Grove remains strong, accountable, and responsive to the needs of our community.
Sherise Porchia, M.S.
Board Secretary
Sherise is a founding board member of Aspen Grove and brings her expertise of navigating the complex landscape of post-secondary education and opportunities as the College and Career Counselor at Borah High.
Maggie Benedetti, MSW
Board Treasurer
Maggie is a passionate non-profit leader with 12 years of experience helping organizations grow their impact and reach revenue goals.
Linda Harrison
Board Chair
Linda brings expertise in nonprofit leadership and community advocacy and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Robert Kim
Vice Chair
Robert brings expertise in finance and strategic planning and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Jennifer Martinez
Treasurer
Jennifer brings expertise in accounting and financial oversight and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Michael Foster
Secretary
Michael brings expertise in education and youth development and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Dr. Patricia Williams
Board Member
Patricia brings expertise in mental health and clinical services and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Carlos Ramirez
Board Member
Carlos brings expertise in community development and social services and is dedicated to supporting opportunities for youth and families in the Boise area.
Community Partnerships
Aspen Grove Community Center believes collaboration strengthens impact. Partnering with local schools, community organizations and service providers will allow AGCC to expand support and respond more effectively to community needs while building a network of care that extends beyond our walls.
Local Schools & Educators
Mental Health & Wellness Providers
Youth-Focused Nonprofits
Community Organizations & Businesses
Volunteer & Service Groups
Make a Lasting Impact Today
When you give to Aspen Grove Community Center, you invest directly in initiatives that uplift lives and bring people together. Your generosity allows us to build a safe third space for Boise’s youth, to expand our reach, and create positive change where it matters most.