At just 30 years old, Chelsea Crouch has already made a significant impact on the senior living industry in Wenatchee Valley. As the Business Office Manager at Avamere at Wenatchee, her dedication and passion for geriatric care have not only earned her recognition as one of the 30 under 35 by Wenatchee World Business but also makes her a valuable advocate for the community she serves.
The nomination
Gilbert Lutes, Executive Director with Avamere at Wenatchee, nominated Chelsea. When she received the news she won, she was full of excitement and gratitude.
“I was excited someone saw my passion,” she shared. “I challenge myself, and I was very proud of myself.”
Chelsea was recognized during an employee meeting, surrounded by a team who is thrilled for her.
Chelsea’s career journey
Chelsea’s journey in healthcare began at the young age of 18 when she became a certified nursing assistant in North Dakota. Over the years, she continued to explore different aspects of healthcare, working in various roles, including a caregiver, lead medication assistant, and certified medical assistant. However, it was her experience working with geriatric patients in a level 1 trauma center emergency room that ignited her passion for senior care.
In 2017, Chelsea served as an assisted living director and then memory care director the following year. Leading through the challenges of the pandemic, Chelsea demonstrated her ability to navigate changes with grace and determination.
Chelsea’s desire to continuously improve and learn is evident in her long list of certifications and training. She is certified in CPR/first aid, management of aggressive behaviors, and dementia/mental health care. With over 300 hours of continuing education in her field and being a certified trainer for Department of Social and Health Services-approved classes in the state of Washington, she remains at the forefront of senior care knowledge and practices.
What sets Chelsea apart is her deep connection with the residents. As the Business Office Manager, she now enjoys more personal interactions with the residents, listening to their stories, and understanding their lives. This personability is what makes her job truly fulfilling, as she considers the residents at Avamere at Wenatchee as her own grandmas and grandpas.
She connects with resident family members too, and even received several calls of congratulations!
Serving her community
Chelsea’s recognition as one of the 30 under 35 is a testament to her commitment to the Wenatchee community. Her involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and starting a support group for people with dementia at a previous community showcases her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
When asked about her motivation, Chelsea credits her daughter as her biggest inspiration. Being a teenage mom, Chelsea faced her share of obstacles, but she persevered to achieve her goals. She aims to be a role model for her daughter and show her that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Chelsea’s future
Looking forward, Chelsea aspires to become an executive director and run her own building someday. Her drive to excel and her willingness to embrace new challenges offer valuable career advice for others. She encourages young professionals to try new things and always to remain open to learning. She noted her own experience of transitioning to the business side of the healthcare industry.
“I let myself have the opportunity to learn,” she shared. “Always listen and never assume you’re the smartest person in the room.”
Grateful to be 30 Under 35
Chelsea is filled with pride and gratitude for being part of 30 Under 35’s Class of 2023. Knowing her efforts and dedication have been recognized fuels her passion even more.
Cheslea was honored along with all the other 30 Under 35 recipients on July 27, 2023 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. Attendees included Mayor Frank Kuntz, the City Council, the Board of Directors of Wenatchee World, and of course, two of her fellow teammates, Avamere at Wenatchee Executive Director Gilbert Lutes and Business Office Manager Jessica Riches (who attended virtually).
Chelsea Crouch’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders in any industry. Her journey from a young nursing assistant to a respected business office manager exemplifies the power of perseverance, dedication, and a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Through her work, Chelsea continues to contribute to the success of her community, and her impact will undoubtedly continue to grow as she paves the way for the future of senior care in Wenatchee Valley.