Chelsie Thomas Returns to Camp Joy as Strategic Growth Manager
There’s something incredibly special about a full-circle moment—and we’re honored to share one with you.
Nearly 15 years ago, Chelsie Thomas took her very first job out of college as an Outdoor Educator at Camp Joy. In those early days, surrounded by the woods, cabins, and community of Camp Joy, she discovered a passion for experiential learning, leadership development, and the power of connection. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome her back—this time as our Strategic Growth Manager.
Chelsie brings with her more than a decade of mission-driven leadership across the nonprofit, behavioral health, and wellness sectors. Her career has been defined by purpose, strategy, and heart—qualities that make her a natural fit for guiding Camp Joy’s future growth.
A Legacy of Impact
Chelsie’s professional path has included transformative work with SAFE on Main, Warren County’s domestic violence and sexual assault prevention center. There, she taught prevention education in schools, worked directly with survivors in crisis, and led collaborative efforts across law enforcement, medical professionals, and advocates to improve trauma-informed care. As Director of Community Engagement, she built strategic partnerships, led fundraising initiatives, and strengthened support systems for survivors and their families.
She then continued her leadership at BrightView Health and OwlBridge Wellness, where she focused on expanding access to addiction treatment and mental health care. From building partnerships with hospitals and courts to launching community impact strategies, Chelsie became known for driving progress through connection, compassion, and bold action.
Leading with Purpose
Chelsie holds a master’s degree in Leadership Development and brings both a strategic mindset and an empathetic spirit to her role. As Camp Joy’s Strategic Growth Manager, she will cultivate partnerships, drive revenue generation, and help ensure our programs remain relevant, sustainable, and transformative.
Her return to Camp Joy is more than a professional milestone—it’s a homecoming. Chelsie’s journey began here, and now, she’s leading us into our next chapter of impact, innovation, and inclusion.
Welcome back, Chelsie. We’re so glad you’re home.