Established in 2017, 4 The Children is a Durango-based non-profit serving the five-county region. 4 The Children is an umbrella organization for the local Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program, the Safe Exchange and Supervised Visitation (SEPT) program, and the Child Advocacy Center (CAC). 4 The Children strives to protect childhood today for stronger families tomorrow through these three programs.

4 The Children’s Staff, and Board of Directors, is comprised of a team of compassionate, intelligent community members, dedicated to making a positive difference in our community. The positive effects of our programs can span generations, protecting childhood today for stronger families tomorrow.

Kristy Lawson

Executive Director, CAC Family Advocate, Multidisciplinary Team Facilitator 

Kristy Lawson joined 4 The Children in March of 2019. She grew up in Durango and is grateful to be raising her son and daughter in the community she holds dear to her heart. She has worked in human resources, as a paralegal, and teaching special education at Durango High School. She attended Metropolitan State University studying psychology and human development and family studies. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, music, skiing, ice skating, running, and dancing ballet.

Katrina Patterson

CASA and SEPT Program Director

Katrina Patterson brings a strong commitment to protecting children and supporting families through advocacy, collaboration, and trauma-informed practice. Having grown up in Durango, she is passionate about making a positive impact in the community that shaped her. She is dedicated to strengthening families and ensuring children have a safe, supportive foundation to thrive. In her free time she enjoys gardening, snowboarding, and spending time with her family.