About JO
Hi I'm Jo!
I've been proud to call Arvada home for over 25 years, and I’m passionate about making Apex a place for everyone. As a seasoned parks and recreation professsional and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), I've worked with people of all abilities across the Cities of Lakewood and Wheat Ridge, as well as in Indiana, Virginia, and Texas. From camps to cities to higher ed, I’ve dedicated my career to building inclusive, engaging, and healthy communities. I’d love your support to keep that momentum going —
vote to re-elect me to the Apex Park and Rec Board!
Leadership + Committment
Skills I can contribute to the board include responsible fiscal management and strategic visioning with multi-million dollar budgets in both higher education and government organizations. Extensive leadership experience in the park and recreation industry and non-profit organizations. Exceptional board leadership and policy knowledge for non-profit, professional, government and special district boards. Carefully honed collaboration skills from bringing people together across sectors for community health. As a business owner and entrepreneur I have a curious and playful spirit to encourage next level practices in organizations.
The Day Job
I’m the proud owner and Chief Connection and Collaboration Officer at JoBurnsConnects LLC, where I help people tap into the power of belonging and connection for better health. I also direct the Colorado Public Health | Parks and Recreation Collaborative — a statewide network that brings together parks, public health, libraries, nonprofits, and more to build stronger communities.
Service in the Community
I’ve been all in for our community for years! Since 2022, I've proudly served on the Apex Park and Rec Board, and before that, I was on the Arvada Park Advisory Committee (2016–2019). I founded the RVHS Mountain Bike Team Booster Club and ran it for seven years, and I cheered on young dancers as a parent and volunteer with the Arvada Center Dance Academy for 14 years.
These days, you’ll find me on the board of Arvada Jefferson Kiwanis, helping out with local events — especially serving drinks every 2nd Saturday in Olde Town! I also serve on two statewide nonprofit boards, Sylvaneers Camp and the Regional Institute for Health and Environmental Leadership. Serving this community isn’t just what I do — it’s who I am!
The Personal Stuff
I’m married to Brian (36 years), and we have two awesome young adults, Nate (Helena, MT) and Erin (Gonzaga University). We also have a niece and nephews that live in Arvada too. When I’m not working or volunteering, you’ll catch me hiking, skiing, mountain biking, SUPing at Standley Lake, cooking, playing cornhole in the Apex league, or sharing a local brew with friends.
If you see me on an Arvada trail — say hi!