Volunteer Feature: Chelsea Barlow
For over a decade, Chelsea Barlow has been actively involved in supporting the Zebra Centre. She joined the board in 2019 and currently, Chelsea is the Chair of Zebra's Board of Directors.
In the spirit of volunteer appreciation, get to know our incredible herd member!
Outside of Zebra, what do you do? Career? Hobbies?
Chelsea: I have a background in Human Resources and now own a group benefits brokerage, with a business partner called KB Benefits. Hobbies are spending time with my two little guys, family and friends! Getting outside and enjoying the sunshine whenever it is out!
What led you to becoming a part of the Zebra Centre?
Chelsea: I previously had volunteered with Victim Services with the EPS. This is how I first learned of Zebra and I had always been drawn to it as it supports children and youth and those most vulnerable in our community. My passion for this work and what the Centre does has always been the thought that if we can support those that have been abused, early on, connect them with the right resources and assist in their healing process, our society benefits as a whole for years to come.
What is a little fun fact (or two) about yourself?
Chelsea: 1) I competitively figure skated for nearly 13 years from the age of 3 and it was a huge part of my life while growing up.
2) I am a huge sports fan and rarely miss watching an Oiler’s game and now participate in an all girls fantasy football league.
What have you learned about yourself from being a volunteer?
Chelsea: How passionate I am about this work and those we support. I have learned a great deal about not for profits, navigating partnerships and how much comes together for the Centre to operate. I learn everyday and am so thankful for the opportunity to be apart of it!
What is the most fulfilling part of your role?
Chelsea: I am in constant aww of the Centre, the partnerships, the staff and all of the collaboration that happens. It truly is amazing. I am honoured to work alongside a number of other incredibly dedicated volunteers, board members and community citizens that contribute so much. I am incredibly inspired by those that work at the Centre daily – their passion is incredible and we are so fortunate to have them as we support the children and youth we serve. Our community is a better place because of them!
Thank you so much to Chelsea for many years of dedication to our Centre and the community we support! We are so appreciative of everything you do as a member of our Zebra Herd.