Meet Our Board

Evan Howard,  President

Evan B. Howard, Ph.D. is currently "retired" after serving in both teaching and pastoral ministries since 1983. Over the years he  has worked as a caseworker with Salvation Army and has volunteered in a number of charitable endeavors, including serving as the caseworker and secretary for the Association of Montrose Churches . He is the author of a number of books and articles, focusing on nourishing our relationship with God.

MIRIAM cARDENAS - eXECUTIVE dIRECTOR

I am Miriam Cardenas. I originally come from Michoacán, Mexico. I’ve been in this community for 27 years, working in Nonprofits around 8 years. My heart goes out to all who need help. I would love to continue and proceed to make a difference with the help of our Heavenly Father. Last but most importantly, letting everyone know how much God loves them is something I continue to do everyday. 

SHANNON SIEDSCHLAG


I was not attracted to Montrose by its majestic mountains, natural beauty, or outdoor adventures, but by God’s providential working. While pursuing a BA in pastoral studies in Wisconsin, I met the love of my life and got a little sidetracked. Her dad being a Montrose native, I naturally proposed to her here in Montrose over 30 years ago. God faithfully worked, moving our family to Montrose nearly 20 years ago. Since then, our family has grown from four to six children (adding a son & daughter-in-law) and now four grandchildren --my richest blessing. I have served the community in a variety of ministries from construction to pastoring and many others. The tests that God has brought me through have given me a passion to see others enjoy the “abundant life” by finding their hope in Christ alone. Beholding the backdrop of all the God given natural beauty around us, one cannot--should not--idly stand by and overlook the need that is at eye level. There are so many without hope. I serve at The Shepherd’s Hand because it is a place where the hope of Christ can be seen and is offered in real and tangible ways. 

Maxine Abbott

My name is Maxine Abbott. I have a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and have about 20 years of experience working in social services with most of my time spent working for a faith based non-profit in California. I have a passion for helping others and feel called to work with The Shepherd's Hand on their board. 

ED DOUGLAS



I am Edwin Douglas. I was born in Sunnyside, Washington. In 1955 I moved to Alaska at the age of seven and grew up there. Later I moved to Vermont and then to California. I got saved at Greg Laurie's church in Riverside, CA. I moved to Colorado in the 1980s and there helped start a church in Montrose for people who were poor or homeless. I have always had a heart for homeless people and am glad to be serving on the board of The Shepherd's Hand.

Jeff Downs


I, Jeff Downs, have been in the Montrose area since 1990. I graduated from Ridgway High School, and subsequently earned a bachelor's degree in Animal Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2005. Shortly thereafter, my wife Jenika and I moved back to Montrose to pursue our dream of regenerative agriculture on my family's ranch. I love all animals, but am especially fond of my cows! My beautiful and very patient wife Jenika and I have been married for 16 years. We are busy parents of 4 wonderful kiddos, ranging from 14 down to 2 years old. I love the Lord with all my heart, and I am so extremely grateful for His relentless pursuit of my heart. His grace, mercy, and love for all of His children never ceases to amaze me. I have a great desire to see everyone released from spiritual bondage, and walking in the freedom that was purchased by our savior Jesus Christ.

Robert H. Parish

I am the Chief Retail Officer for Parish Oil Company, and I have deep roots in Montrose, where I’ve called home since I was six years old. At Parish Oil Company, I’ve had the privilege of being part of my first board of directors for the Montrose Chamber of Commerce.

           Following the closure of the Chamber, I joined the Governmental Affairs Council, an initiative that continued working on local issues even after the Chamber’s closure. I am currently serving on the Region 10 Loan Committee Board; a regional group that helps decide financing for small businesses and nonprofits. In this role, I contribute to decisions regarding working capital, equipment, and inventory funding for organizations in need of support.


           One of the best aspects of returning to Montrose was the opportunity to reconnect with my childhood church, All Saints Anglican. Having attended since I was six, I now serve on the Vestry (board of directors), where I’ve had the honor of being the Junior Warden (Vice Chair) for four years and Senior Warden (Chair) for two years.


           Outside of my professional and volunteer work, I am blessed to share my life with my wife, Ashley, and our two beautiful daughters. We live east of Montrose and enjoy the incredible outdoor activities this area offers. Whether we’re climbing, rafting, fishing, or camping, we take full advantage of the natural beauty surrounding us. We feel truly grateful to live in such a special part of God's creation.

Robert H. Parish

I am the Chief Retail Officer for Parish Oil Company, and I have deep roots in Montrose, where I’ve called home since I was six years old. At Parish Oil Company, I’ve had the privilege of being part of my first board of directors for the Montrose Chamber of Commerce. Following the closure of the Chamber, I joined the Governmental Affairs Council, an initiative that continued working on local issues even after the Chamber’s closure. I am currently serving on the Region 10 Loan Committee Board; a regional group that helps decide financing for small businesses and nonprofits. In this role, I contribute to decisions regarding working capital, equipment, and inventory funding for organizations in need of support.

           One of the best aspects of returning to Montrose was the opportunity to reconnect with my childhood church, All Saints Anglican. Having attended since I was six, I now serve on the Vestry (board of directors), where I’ve had the honor of being the Junior Warden (Vice Chair) for four years and Senior Warden (Chair) for two years.


           Outside of my professional and volunteer work, I am blessed to share my life with my wife, Ashley, and our two beautiful daughters. We live east of Montrose and enjoy the incredible outdoor activities this area offers. Whether we’re climbing, rafting, fishing, or camping, we take full advantage of the natural beauty surrounding us. We feel truly grateful to live in such a special part of God's creation.