Boys and Girls Clubs of Chaffee County response to a critical incident

The safety and security of the youth we serve is always our top priority and we take any situation that may impact their well-being very seriously. A few weeks ago, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chaffee County learned of a police investigation into allegations against a former employee. The employee, Brandon Wells, was employed by Buena Vista Club from November 2018 until his resignation on March 30, 2023.

We immediately cooperated with police investigators and the Department of Human Services (DHS) and continue to offer our full cooperation as needed. We have been informed that the initial investigation was closed after it was determined that the allegations did not involve our organization or club members. Our BV Club children use the school toilets, which are constantly monitored by our reception staff. The staff at the BV reception is located directly opposite the youth toilets.

DHS informed us that it is satisfied with the safety protocols at our clubs, including but not limited to employee screenings, background checks, and prohibiting in-person interactions between adult employees and members. Our commitment to our club members, their families and our community is unwavering. We have been told that if new information emerges, that information should be immediately passed on to BGC Chief Executive Brian Beaulieu. We are saddened by this serious matter and stand ready to respond to the needs of our members. As information becomes available, we will continue to be helpful, transparent and proactive in all safety measures.

Safety is our top priority at Boys & Girls Clubs of Chaffee County. As always, we are here to provide resources to support our youth, teens and families. Abusive behavior or malicious intent goes against everything our organization stands for – no child should be harmed under any circumstances. Please see the following link for support from BGCA: bgca.org/programs/initiatives/be-there

Gwen Allen Brian Beaulieu
Chairman of the Board, Managing Director
[email protected] 512-431-2603

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television for over 40 years, starting as a high school student in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career included stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma and finally Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community as he is a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club, currently serves on the board of the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They raised three children and two grandchildren.

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