Nicole was first drawn to Chrysalis’ model of providing individuals a pathway to employment. Witnessing it first-hand and in action, she saw what stable work could do for people taking their next steps in life. After dedicating 16 years of service to Los Angeles-based nonprofits that specialize in workforce development and education, Nicole joined Chrysalis as our Senior Director of Client Services, Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA).
As she steps into the Chrysalis center each day, Nicole’s motivation is for the betterment of both her team and our clients. A proud Los Angeles native, she feels deeply rooted and connected to a mission that is aimed at nurturing her community.
 | Nicole considers it a tremendous privilege to do work that fosters growth both holistically and at an individual level. |
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Nicole reminisces about the first time in her role when she felt like she belonged to something bigger. Fairly new to the organization, Nicole stepped out for lunch and ran into a Chrysalis Enterprise client who needed critical documentation to secure housing, with a deadline that same day. With urgency, Nicole and several staff members sprang into action and supported the client by obtaining her paystubs and work history papers.
“I saw the relief in her face and the tears in her eyes. It seemed like the first time in a while she could breathe — that her life was going to be different after today. She had done so much work and that was the last thing she needed to step into a home,” Nicole recalls. “It was powerful to be a part of that.”
Reflecting on that experience, she shares her joy in seeing fellow staff members unite in support of Chrysalis clients. “We are an organization that is filled with amazing humans who are committed to the mission and to meet clients where they are at. It’s rare and unique to Chrysalis.”
Nicole finds the mutable nature of her job exhilarating. While she knows that no two days will be the same and that each day will bring its own set of challenges, she is always ready to support her staff and Chrysalis clients.
“I love seeing the lobby filled with clients, the energy of people going in and out, and our clients working to clean the streets right outside.”
In her free time, Nicole enjoys traveling, reading, and hosting guests in her home.