Who we are
Friends of Durango Seniors (FDS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing services for older adults in Durango and La Plata County. Through fundraising, partnerships, and community engagement, FDS strengthens programs, improves facilities, and expands opportunities for seniors and their families. With the support of members, donors, and volunteers, we work to ensure that every senior in our community can thrive with dignity, connection, and care.
Patty Kelly moved to Durango with her husband John in the summer of 2024. Recently, they purchased a home in Bayfield.
Patty is a retired educator; John retired from law enforcement. Both worked their careers in Virginia.
Patty has enjoyed the classes she participates in at the Senior Center, and is excited to be a part of the community and to work with others to support the lives of Seniors in the area.
Board of Directors
Gay Kiene and husband Lou retired to Durango in 2006, and are living in the 1898 home where her grandmother and parents also retired.
Gay has dabbled in several careers; however, she spent 18 years working in a culinary arts program in Jacksonville, Arkansas. Gay most recently worked seasonally for the Durango and Silverton Railroad as a historical interpreter.
Now fully retired, Gay served on the La Plata CountyHistorical Society Board several years and volunteers at Manna, Durango Public Library, the Durango Police Department, First Presbyterian Church and the League of Women Voters.
Tamara has spent a lifetime supporting community programs and coalitions. Early in her professional career she worked with the elderly, young children and people with disabilities in Southwest Colorado providing nutrition education and promoting healthy life choices. Subsequent years included massage therapy, energy healing and managing cradle to grave education programs. In her role as Executive Director of the Early Childhood Council of La Plata County she was instrumental in developing a system to support young children and their families and teachers. She retired from the Council in 2018.
Tamara is a graduate of Fort Lewis College. She has cultivated strong leadership in the community through collaboration and offering many professional development opportunities. She enjoys Zumba Gold, Tai Chi, meditation, reflective conversations and “glamping”. Along with her husband Bill, they have two grown sons. She has lived in Durango for over 50 years and feels blessed to live in such a caring and vibrant community.
Tamara currently serves as the Secretary /Treasurer on the Board of the Friends of Durango Seniors.
Contact us
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