Meet The Foxes

Jeff and Leslie have always had a deep love for mountain life. They understand the dream that draws so many seasonal workers to Telluride—the thrill of powder days in the winter and the beauty of trails, waterfalls, and wildflowers in the summer. But their connection to seasonal workers goes beyond simply sharing the same passions. It’s rooted in their story, their calling, and their heart for people.

Their journey together began at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA, where they met and married after graduation. More than 30 years later, they now celebrate a rich life of marriage and family, with two adult daughters, Emily and Sydney.

From the beginning, Jeff and Leslie have shared a passion for investing in the next generation. Their first role was with K-Life, a youth ministry serving middle and high school students in St. Louis, MO. After seven years, Jeff pursued a Master of Divinity from Covenant Seminary while leading college and young adult ministry at Greentree Community Church.

In time, their young family moved to Colorado, where Jeff directed recreation programs at Horncreek Conference Center while he and Leslie led an internship for young adults. These were formative years that solidified their love for mentoring and building relationships in the context of the outdoors. Later, they transitioned to Golden, CO, where Jeff led a real estate team for 15 years while also serving on non-profit boards such as The Neighborhood Rehab Project, Leadership Golden, and Emmanne Ministries. During this season, both Jeff and Leslie poured into young adults at The Colorado School of Mines and Storyline Community Church.

In the fall of 2023, as new empty nesters, they followed their hearts to Telluride—a place Leslie grew up visiting and one they had cherished as a couple for years. Jeff now continues his career in real estate while serving part-time as the Discipleship and Outreach Pastor at The Alpine Chapel while Leslie works in the heart of town at the Telluride Toggery.

As they began building relationships locally, Jeff and Leslie found themselves naturally connecting with seasonal workers—sharing meals, listening to stories, and offering encouragement. They quickly realized that many of these young adults were navigating both incredible highs and challenging lows in this unique mountain town. Out of that conviction, Beacon was born: a vision to provide presence, purpose, and hope through hospitality, mentorship, and authentic community.

For Jeff and Leslie, opening their home and lives is second nature. Hospitality isn’t just something they do—it’s who they are. Their hope is to continue creating safe, welcoming spaces where seasonal workers can find refuge and belonging, while raising up other leaders and mentors who share the same heart.

You can often find them on running trails, skiing, spending time at their cabin with friends and family Their greatest joy is weaving their love for the mountains with their love for people—and they look forward to investing in Telluride’s community for many years to come.