Leadership Team

I was born into a family of seven to parents who were Idaho natives. At a young age, we moved to Maryland. I grew up in a bustling metropolis outside of Washington D.C., regularly experiencing politics, the arts, museums, and...

I’ll never forget the first day my son and I rolled up to Giraffe Laugh on Grand in my barely‑running 1980s minivan. I had just left a difficult marriage, the recession was dragging on, and I was doing everything I could to keep a roof over our heads. Enrolling my...

I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho where I attended Giraffe Laugh as a preschooler. I loved my experience there so much as a child that as soon as I was old enough, I began volunteering at Giraffe Laugh as a classroom helper. I loved being in the environment that...

Hi! I’m Sofia Vera Chavarria, and I am thrilled to be part of the Giraffe Laugh team as the Media Coordinator. Originally from the Philippines, I moved to the U.S. at 19 with my family. Here, I continued my education, earning a degree in Media Arts and Public...

With a background spanning higher education, nonprofits, and healthcare operations, our new Events Coordinator brings not only a wealth of experience—but a heart rooted in community. She finds purpose in roles where she can make a real difference, which makes Giraffe...

I was raised in Jerome, Idaho and enjoyed a childhood filled with dairy cows and fields of corn.  Growing up, my mother always taught me to appreciate the magic of imagination and the value of play.  I attended Boise State University where I earned a degree...

I was born in Southern California and moved frequently throughout my childhood before finally settling in Idaho in 2011. As the oldest of five siblings, I played a major role in helping raise my brothers and sisters—especially after losing my dad at thirteen. Those...

I’ve been working in childcare since 2008, and was blessed to find my forever home in Giraffe Laugh in 2014. I take great pride in working for an organization that supports all families no matter what their financial situation currently is. Every child deserves a...

My name is Laurentina Hernandez, but I go by Laura. I lived in Washington State but I am originally from California. We moved to Idaho back in 2002. I have been married to my best friend for almost 25 years now and we have three children. I have been working in...

Hello, my name is Jacqueline Galligan. I was born in California but was raised here in Idaho. In 2017, I graduated from the University of Idaho with a Child Development/Family Relation degree. Soon after college, I married my best friend Jason Galligan and he has been...

I am proud to serve as the Site Director for the Garden City Preschool Center, bringing more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education. My career began with vocational training in Business Management, which provided a strong foundation in practical and...

I grew up in a small town in Oregon and found my way to Boise in my early 20’s. I strongly believe every child should have the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe nurturing environment. My favorite moment is when a child grasps on to a concept that they have been...

Born in Traverse City, Michigan and raised in Boise, Idaho since I was two months old, I bring both deep roots in our community and a heartfelt commitment to supporting local families. Since beginning my career in child care in 2017, I have developed a strong...

My name is Amanda Rea (Penning), and I joined Giraffe Laugh in January 2023. I’ve been working in early childhood education since my teenage years. I have worked with children of all ages in various settings. I was born and raised in California’s Central Valley and...

I was born and raised in Minnesota and moved to California to attend college. I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology, and began my professional career working one on one with children with special needs, focusing on behavior management. Shortly after...

I was born and raised in Boise, but I spent my teen years in Arizona finishing school and starting my career. I always knew I had a passion and goal to work with children since I began nannying for close friends and families during my summers at age 13. I loved...