Meet the Team
Clinton Knox
Executive Director
Clint Knox is a proud father, educator, entrepreneur, and social justice fighter. Clint started his career as a YMCA Program Director and quickly became the Executive Director for YMCA Camp Shady Brook bringing the camp out of the wreckage of the Hayman Fire. He then transitioned into teaching with Colorado Springs District 11 for the next 14 years. During this time he obtained his National Board Certification, completed an Ironman triathlon, received his first Master’s from Colorado College, and started and sold two businesses.
Clint’s first business, Spree Racing created the Big Gay 5K and The Colorado Springs Marathon. His second business, Brainitz, a technology startup was sold to a corporate training firm in Seattle.
After the exit of his tech company he and his family took a sabbatical, rebuilt a salvaged catamaran, and sailed the Caribbean. When they returned Clint completed his MBA and has now taken the reigns as the Executive Director for Ithaka Housing. Clint is an exceptionally driven individual who takes on large projects, builds partnerships, and finds creative ways to solve hard problems.
You can email Clint at clint@ithakahousing.org
or call (719) 578-1629.
Janara Bostick
Operations & Housing Director
Janara Bostick is our Operations & Housing Director, overseeing all aspects of our day-to-day operations, as well as property management and sustainable housing efforts. She’s also the primary voice of Ithaka for people who call to inquire about our services. Janara has been with Ithaka since February of 2023.
Janara has extensive experience as a HR professional, and is also a licensed realtor. Janara says, “I am a military spouse, dog mom, and most important of all, I am an ambassador of Ubuntu. Ubuntu is an African philosophy meaning, ‘I Am Because We Are.’ I am only successful when you are successful. Ubuntu is the humanity and unity we give each other just because we are human. My goal is to approach every person as a chance to spread Ubuntu through my actions and my words. Let’s be successful together!”
You can email Janara at janara@ithakahousing.org
or call (719) 578-1629 ext 408.
Kawana Gaylor
Program Director
Kawana Gaylor serves as Ithaka’s Program Director and Case Manager for the Shore House, where she oversees all of Ithaka’s programs, supervises case managers, and works to grow and strengthen existing services. She is also responsible for developing new programs to meet the evolving needs of Ithaka’s participants. Since joining Ithaka in July 2019, Kawana has been instrumental in driving the organization’s mission forward, ensuring that each program is effective, participant-centered, and responsive to the community’s needs.
With a background that includes roles at Diversus and Springs Rescue Mission, Kawana has worked extensively with adults experiencing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, homelessness, and involvement in the judicial system. Her experience in these critical areas has provided her with a unique insight into the complex challenges many of Ithaka’s participants face.
Kawana studied Psychology at Ashford University and earned her Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) certification in 2016. Her academic background, coupled with her hands-on experience, makes her a compassionate and skilled leader who understands the nuances of case management and program development.
Her leadership continues to shape the growth and direction of Ithaka’s programs, contributing to the well-being of the individuals and families the organization serves.
You can email Kawana at kawana@ithakahousing.org or call (719) 578-1629.
Brittany Torres
Family Program Case Manager
Brittany Torres is the Family Case Manager at Ithaka Housing, where she oversees a diverse caseload that includes single mothers and families experiencing homelessness. With ten years of experience in human services, Brittany has a strong track record of helping individuals and families navigate complex challenges. Her strengths lie in understanding participants’ unique needs and empowering them to initiate meaningful change.
Before joining Ithaka, Brittany worked with several nonprofit organizations in Colorado Springs, including Springs Rescue Mission, Volunteers of America, and the Colorado Springs Fire Department’s Community just to name a few. Also gained experience with Discover Goodwill Rehire and interned at Recovery Unlimited, where she earned her Certified Addictions Technician certification.
Brittany joined the Ithaka team in May 2024 and is excited to continue her work with Ithaka Housing.
You can email Brittany at brittany@ithakahousing.org or call (719) 578-1629.
Dan Olson
Maintenance Director
Dan Olson is Ithaka’s Maintenance Director and has been with the organization since May 2021. A lifelong resident of Colorado Springs, Dan brings over 25 years of experience in the maintenance industry to his role. His deep expertise spans a wide range of skills, from facilities management to repairs, making him a key asset in ensuring Ithaka’s properties are well-maintained and running smoothly.
Dan is deeply committed to Ithaka’s mission of providing safe, stable housing to those in need. His passion for the cause is reflected in his hands-on approach, where he not only oversees daily facilities operations but also takes pride in resolving issues that arise, no matter how complex. His technical skills, combined with a problem-solving mindset, help him tackle challenges with enthusiasm and effectiveness.
Outside of work, Dan is dedicated to his family, often spending quality time with them through activities like traveling. Dan’s personal and professional lives are driven by his commitment to service.
You can email Dan at dan@ithakahousing.org or call (719) 578-1629.
Lilyan Patton
Marketing Intern
Lilyan Patton is the Digital Marketing Intern at Ithaka Housing. Currently pursuing her B.S. in Marketing, she brings a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to our team. Her academic background equips her with the latest marketing strategies and techniques, which she is eager to apply in a real-world setting. Lilyan’s commitment to her studies and her proactive approach makes her an asset to our organization.
Passionate about non-profit organizations and social justice, Lilyan is driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the community. She believes in the power of marketing to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring attention to important social issues. Her dedication to social justice is evident in her work, as she seeks out opportunities to promote our mission and engage with our audience in meaningful ways.
You can email Lilyan at lilyan@ithakahousing.org or call (719) 578-1629.
Ithaka Housing 