Welcome new staff member: Chelsea

Hi there, my name is Chelsea Schiavi and I’m honored and humbled to serve the CRCNA in the role of Administrative and Volunteer Assistant for Disability Concerns, Office of Race Relations, Office of Social Justice, and Safe Church Ministry. 

I was born and raised in central Michigan, but in recent years have lived in Texas, Washington State, and Tennessee, though there has always been a sweet spot in my heart for the state of Michigan. What can I say... it’s home! Growing up in the Church, faith has always played a huge role in my life, but it wasn’t until college when I truly grasped the gravity of what Jesus’ death on the cross and resurrection meant for me and for the world. Grasping this shaped me in more ways than one, but a big way it shaped me was that it affirmed for me my desire to work in ministry. 

Studying Management of Nonprofit Organizations at Johnson University (Knoxville, Tenn.), I knew I wanted to use my degree to support, serve, and build up those around me. Since graduating college in 2013, I have been doing just that in the overnight summer camp industry, most recently at YMCA Camp Cullen (Houston, Tex.) and YMCA Camp Timbers (Saginaw, Mich). There is something incredibly special about working to create inclusive and welcoming spaces for youth and adults where they feel comfortable to be their authentic selves.

I truly believe that in life, we never stop learning or growing. Whether it be picking up a new hobby, reading an informational and/or inspirational book, spending time in nature, or genuinely listening to the experiences of others, there are always ways in which one can grow. I see this role that I am stepping into as an amazing opportunity for growth and I am excited to serve alongside others in the pursuit of Biblical Justice, Shalom, the way it was intended to be.