A survivor-led nonprofit,
working in plain sight.

UCO was founded by a survivor of childhood abuse who couldn't stay silent.

Section 01The founder

Jon-Paul Bouttier, in his own words.

I grew up on the Wasatch front in Salt Lake City, Utah. At an early age, a Patriarch of the church nicknamed me Bright Eyes. I achieved only as much as I wanted to in education, and worked very hard to become an Eagle Scout by the age of fifteen. For many years I was dedicated to playing multiple sports like baseball, football, gymnastics, water polo, and dance. After playing for nearly fourteen years, I was awarded MVP several times in soccer.

I was blessed with four rowdy brothers and three loving sisters, all of whom I wish I had better relationships with today. Our home growing up was rough, to say the least. We all experienced some level of torture, mental or physical. I was the one chosen to endure most of the wrath. My father was a monster.

Thirty-five years later, at fifty years old, I paid a visit to a urologist. That's when I discovered some of the things my father did to me are considered sexual abuse. That was the moment everything changed.

I am grateful to have the opportunity to recognize how my past is part of me but doesn't define me. What's ahead is what brings me alive.

Jon-Paul Bouttier · Founder

The reform I'm working toward is the reform I needed to exist for me.

Jon-Paul Bouttier · Founder

Section 02The organization

A Colorado nonprofit, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt.

Unheard Child Organization is a Colorado nonprofit corporation (Entity #20261274934), incorporated March 2026, and a tax-exempt public charity under IRC Section 501(c)(3) (EIN 41-4621534), recognized by the IRS effective March 3, 2026. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by federal law. Headquartered in Colorado's Four Corners region, where the work began. Our focus states are Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and California.

The board is intentionally small. The founder's story is told above, in his own words. The other directors introduce themselves below.

Board of directors

Board president

Dr. Melissa Bird

Dr. Melissa Bird is a descendant of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes. She is an internationally recognized lay preacher, author, social worker, and podcaster who has spent nearly three decades teaching classes and workshops on spiritual and social justice and revolution. Her combination of education, real-life experience, and practical advice makes her a powerful force for change in the lives of the people she connects with.

Dr. Bird creates the genesis for a new brand of leadership and graceful revolution. She inspires personal understanding through contemplation, helps people use their intuition to change their lives and communities, and encourages the healing of grief and loss through spiritual connection. Her words awaken revolutionaries, trailblazers, and powerful innovators who are seeking deeper connection and expansive growth through joyful advocacy. She is the host of The Thinnest Veil podcast and the author of several books, including her newly released book, “Leading from the Heart.”

She lives in Corvallis, Oregon, with her husband, three kids, and two dogs. When she's not working, you'll find her sipping Earl Grey with heavy cream and reading trashy novels, because joy is also resistance.

Vice chair

Dr. Carol Hand

Carol Hand brings a lifetime of dedication, resilience, and leadership to her role as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for Unheard Child Organization (UCO). Her extensive background in military service, healthcare, business management, and agriculture reflects a strong commitment to integrity, compassion, and community well-being.

A proud United States Army veteran who served from 1976 to 1982, Carol understands the importance of courage, perseverance, and standing up for others. As a veteran living with a 100% service-connected disability, she brings a personal understanding of overcoming adversity and the importance of ensuring that individuals facing difficult circumstances are treated with dignity and respect.

Carol earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 2001 and brings 26 years of experience in chiropractic care, demonstrating her commitment to improving the health and quality of life of others.

Her entrepreneurial accomplishments include 23 years as owner and Chief Executive Officer of Flipside Enterprises, a real estate holding company. Since 2008, she has also been actively involved in farming and ranching in Mancos, Colorado, strengthening her connection to rural communities and the values of responsibility, perseverance, and stewardship.

As Vice Chair, Carol contributes a wealth of professional experience, sound judgment, and compassionate leadership to UCO. Her dedication to service and accountability supports the organization's mission to empower survivors of childhood abuse, challenge institutional silence, and advocate for meaningful change.

Carol's leadership reflects UCO's guiding principle: every voice deserves to be heard, every survivor deserves dignity, and every child deserves protection.

Board secretary

Louise E. Sorensen

Louise E. Sorensen brings wisdom, resilience, and a unique perspective to her role as board secretary. As the mother of eight children, she has devoted her life to caring for her family. After ending an abusive marriage, Louise rebuilt her life and supported her children through the aftermath with the help of therapy, hard work, and persistence.

Her experiences have deepened her compassion and appreciation for the importance of support during difficult times. Louise treasures time with her family, affectionately known as her “crew.” She attends church and the temple each week and enjoys reading, music, and visiting with friends. We are grateful for the strength, insight, and life experience she brings to our board and mission.

Section 03On Instagram