Nicole Johnson

Founder and Executive Director

The Community Treehouse was founded in 2019 by Nicole Johnson and  Melissa Juliano with the hope of creating a place where families in Bayfield feel welcomed, supported, and connected. A place where parents can take a breath, children can play and grow, and community happens naturally.

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With more than 30 years of experience working with  families  in non-profits, Nicole’s true passion is supporting parents through the joys and challenges of raising young children. Originally from the Netherlands, she has called Bayfield home for the past 25 years, where she lives with her husband and daughter.

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Today, the Treehouse is shaped by the families who walk through its doors—parents supporting one another, volunteering, learning together, and building a caring community. Together, we are strengthening Bayfield, one family at a time.

Ms. Aline

Kidcare Provider &  Parent Volunteer 

My name is Aline, and I am a single mother of two. I relocated to Bayfield in July of 2024, and in early October I was introduced to the Community Treehouse. During my tour, I had the pleasure of meeting Nicole. In conversation, I shared my previous experience in childcare, and soon after, I was given the opportunity to join the Treehouse team.

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Since that time, I have developed countless meaningful connections within the Community Treehouse. My entire family—my 4-year-old son, my 13-year-old daughter, and myself—have formed lasting relationships here. It is truly our hope that other families will have the opportunity to build the same sense of community and connection that we have found.

Ms. Susie

Kidcare Provider

I have worked at the Treehouse for over 5 years. I home-schooled my kids and saw how important it is to have a supportive community, for my kids and myself. I'm a grandma now and love playing with children. It's a joy to see moms meeting and making connections, sharing tips and struggles. It's very fulfilling to help children learn good social skills and make friends. The Treehouse is a vital asset to our community.

Ms. Veronica

Kidcare Provider

My name is Veronica, and I am originally from Colombia. My husband and I moved to Bayfield in 2022, and shortly after, our son Joshua was born in 2023. We first heard about The Treehouse through the library and our pediatric partners' clinic. While I was expecting our baby, I knew I needed to find a place where I could receive motherhood support and connect with other parents—and that is exactly what we found at The Treehouse. After our son was born, we joined in 2023 with the help of a scholarship that allowed me to become part of a wonderful community of mothers going through the same journey. I truly found a second family here. The Treehouse is, without a doubt, a place where my son grows, plays, and learns new skills while interacting with other children. Since 2025, I have also joined the staff, supporting working mothers during Parent Work Time. Along with other caregivers, I help watch the children, connect with them through play, and create a fun and nurturing environment. I am forever grateful for a place like this in our community—where families can come together, support one another, and grow in our parenting journey.

Ms. Claudia & Mr. Dave

Busy Bees Facilitators

I have devoted more than 40 years to early childhood education. Born in Benton Harbor, Michigan, I have lived and worked in several states, experiences that deepened my respect for diverse families and communities. I believe childhood is a precious gift—one that should be honored, protected, and filled with joy, play, and discovery. For 30 years, I served the children and families of the Navajo Nation through the Chinle Unified School District in Chinle, Arizona, where I taught and designed culturally respectful early childhood programs. Earlier in my career, I worked as an early childhood consultant in Louisville, Kentucky. Throughout my journey, I have remained committed to creating environments where children feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Now retired in Bayfield, Colorado, I treasure time with Dave, my two children and nine grandchildren, who are my heart and soul.

Ms. Ashleigh

Conscious Discipline Parenting Class Facilitator

Ashleigh Bennett has a 10+ years of experience in early childhood education, from being a licensed in-home provider to receiving her college certification as a large group leader as well as being a preschool teacher for 7 years. She has over 30 hours of direct training in Conscious Discipline and 5 years of implementation in childcare settings.  

Ms. Stacy

Peer Facilitator & Parent Volunteer

My name is Stacy. My family joined the Treehouse in the Spring of 2023. Nicole and the members we met on the first day instantly included us, and we have found lifelong friends and family there. I volunteer to try and give back to a place that has given so much to us, and support other families in our community. I'm privileged to be a part of the Treehouse and all the good it does.

Ms. Jessi

Treehouse Beautifier & Parent Volunteer

My name is Jessi, and I’m a stay-at-home mom to a four-year-old. We were introduced to the Treehouse a little over 2 ½ years ago, and it quickly became an important part of our lives. Through the Treehouse, my son, my husband, and I found a supportive and welcoming community of families. The connection and sense of belonging it provides have truly been life-changing for us.

Volunteering felt like a natural way to give back to a place that has given so much to our family. Places like the Treehouse have a lasting impact by bringing people together and creating spaces where parents and children feel seen and supported. We gladly recommend it to every new family we meet.

Ms. Andrea

Parent Volunteer

Hi! I’m Andrea,  I’m a parent volunteer. I help out twice a week to support both parents and activity leaders. One of my favorite things is helping everyone feel welcome, included, and comfortable at The Treehouse. When I was a young mom in New Mexico with my two boys, I remember how hard it was to find a safe, community-centered place where we could just be together and play as a family. Fast forward 15 years, and we were blessed with a beautiful baby girl. Living in Bayfield and having The Treehouse as a place to bring her has truly been one of the biggest blessings for our family. The warm, welcoming atmosphere is always there—you can feel it the moment you walk in. As a Mexican American family, we love any reason to celebrate, so you’ll definitely see us at every Treehouse party!