Chelsea Wilson

Nonprofits have always been where my heart is, but my background is in medicine. I have an associate’s degree in healthcare management. I enjoyed helping people, but ultimately, the COVID-19 pandemic put me over the edge.

After working through COVID, I was just too worn out and I needed something fresh. I applied for United Way and it really was perfect.

I love the atmosphere here. I actually didn’t start in 2-1-1, I was in two temporary positions for COVID-era assistance programs. I was hanging in there because I knew something great was in store for me.

When the last temporary position ended, I was offered a full-time position with 2-1-1 as a community care advocate. I jumped on it, thinking, ‘I could be here for good? Yes, let’s do it!’

You would be amazed how many people really depend on 2-1-1. We’re like the guru of everything— I’m a resource guru. It’s my job to try to help you and that’s really what keeps me going.

Of course, sometimes it’s a bit stressful. People are calling in at the worst times of their lives. But, just knowing they thought, ‘Hey, I’m struggling, let me call 2-1-1,’ makes me feel good.

Self-care is important as a community care advocate. You can forget about yourself in the midst of all this. And I’m not going to be any use to anyone if I don’t pour into myself, so I definitely do.

I love to learn, and 2-1-1 has kept me on my toes with the new community health worker certification course. It’s been amazing to have this offered free to us through United Way. I’m at about 1,700 of the 2,000 necessary community service hours.

Before the class it didn’t click, but I understand now that I’ve been a community health worker this whole time. If I’m out and chatting with someone, I’m telling them about 2-1-1. It’s a really beneficial resource and it’s amazing how it brings people together.