Overview
Work History
Education
Timeline
Generic

Jessica McCracken

St. Johns,MI

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Founder and Consultant

Narratives QC
06.2019 - Current
  • Helped co-found a non-profit by identifying community needs and developing an innovative solution
  • Troubleshot, brainstormed and collaborated with co-founder on ways to reach more young adults and effectively serve them.
  • Assisted with successful rebranding effort, refreshing brand image to communicate more clearly the mission of the organization.
  • Collaborated with co-founder to definite, strategize, and implement marketing and fundraising strategies.
  • Researched, analyzed, and provided resources and recommendations regarding marketing, social media, mental/emotional health, young adult development, social capital, and best practices for non-profits.
  • Help meet changing demands through active listening to help co-founder identify underlying needs and develop targeted strategies accordingly, fostering resilience and adaptability as an organization.
  • Researched and provided guidance on governance best practices strengthening leadership and addressing inefficiencies.

Campus Pastor

GracePointe Wesleyan Church
08.2018 - Current
  • Planned and facilitated weekly worship services, incorporating music, creative elements, contemplative practices, and experiential learning.
  • Enhanced congregation's spiritual growth by delivering thought-provoking and engaging sermons weekly, speaking at both the local campus and main campus.
  • Provided teaching and leadership in one-on-one, small, medium, and large settings.
  • Facilitated spiritual growth and learning by creating and teaching Bible studies and small group materials.
  • Provided leadership and supervision of all areas of ministry at campus.
  • Worked with key church leaders to carry out church mission.
  • Collaborated with church leadership to develop strategic plans for ministry growth and expansion.
  • Helped to create a welcoming environment for visitors, recruiting and training volunteers in the hospitality ministry.
  • Facilitated the engagement with new attendees from initial contacts into increasing connection with the local campus, GracePointe Church, and personal spiritual growth.
  • Strengthened faith and understanding within the congregation and fostered a supportive atmosphere, providing tailored spiritual counseling and guidance to individuals and families.
  • Provided spiritual care through communion, visitation, prayer, weddings, funerals, and baptisms.
  • Built strong relationships with other local churches and non-profit organizations to promote collaboration in serving the local community: foster care support meetings, AA meetings, Parent Cafe, Suicide Loss Support Group, and Baby Pantry.
  • Created and/or coordinated, with other leaders, programs to increase church members' service for the community: monthly mobile food assistance program, backpack food program, bi-weekly community game cafe, weekly community playgroup, annual Candy Land Halloween event, Maundy Thursday and Longest Night service.
  • Collaborated with local charities and organizations to provide financial support to those in need, amplifying the church's impact on social welfare.
  • Trained and equipped volunteers to lead small groups and other ministries at the local campus.
  • Provided leadership, training, and ongoing mentorship to the children’s ministry director and other women in leadership.
  • Reviewed, evaluated, and created children’s ministry curriculum and programming.
  • Streamlined administrative processes within the church office, improving efficiency.
  • Assisted with updating branding and ensuring consistency across campuses and in print materials and digitally.
  • Boosted digital presence and accessibility to information about church and church messages by launching redesigned website and engaging social media platforms.
  • Researched, oversaw, and implemented strategy for online presence.
  • Created graphics, print and digital materials, and content for online, weekend, and in-person use.
  • Assisted with the creation of materials to communicate the church’s new mission and vision.

Social Media Creator and Coordinator

Narratives QC
01.2021 - 02.2023
  • Boosted digital presence and accessibility to information about the organization by updating the website and engaging social media platforms.
  • Developed social media strategy and oversaw social media presence, to enhance online presence and ensure a consistent brand voice and message.
  • Increased awareness and boosted engagement by creating compelling content and developing and implementing effective social media strategies.
  • Crafted compelling copy for social media and website.
  • Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and optimize social media campaigns.
  • Utilized visual storytelling techniques, incorporating eye-catching images and videos into posts for higher engagement rates.
  • Collaborated with others to develop visually appealing marketing materials for print and digital channels.
  • Created engaging social media graphics and customized marketing materials that increased visibility and engagement.
  • Developed infographics to better communicate complex data.
  • Developed graphics and visual content for social media campaigns.

Owner

Annabel Lee Events
04.2014 - 09.2016
  • Collaborated with clients to create customized menus tailored to their specific preferences, needs, and vision, translating it into memorable events that exceeded expectations.
  • Developed unique events, providing additional assistance with themes, decorations, and event planning as needed.
  • Developed innovative recipes and signature dishes and flavor combinations, enhancing overall experience and attracting new clientele.
  • Created visually appealing dishes, with special attention given to presentation.
  • Successfully managed a diverse range of events including weddings, business functions, graduations, special occasions, and intimate dinner parties.
  • Handled budgeting, scheduling, purchasing, transporting, set up and clean up, and invoicing.
  • Provided excellent customer service.
  • Followed all food safety guidelines.

Volunteer Young Adult Pastor

Heritage Wesleyan Church
01.2012 - 12.2012
  • Oversaw the Young Adult Ministry leadership team.
  • Mentored volunteer leaders, nurturing their development and leadership skills within church community.
  • Supported the personal growth of young adults by providing mentorship, guidance, and constructive feedback.
  • Planned and implemented weekly bible studies to promote a deeper understanding of scriptural texts and foster spiritual growth among attendees.
  • Organized and coordinated outreach and special events for young adults.
  • Prepared printed materials to promote activities and classes throughout year.
  • Coordinated with staff to ensure information communicated to congregation regularly and effectively.

Elementary Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
09.2010 - 08.2011
  • Communicated the vision and ministry philosophy of Family Life Ministry.
  • Collaborated with Family Life Ministry leadership church leadership to improve the Elementary Ministry.
  • Managed budget and resources for ministry.
  • Created a welcoming, safe, and nurturing atmosphere for all families and children, adhering to security processes and procedures, vetting volunteers, and ensuring equipment and environment are safe.
  • Recruited and trained volunteers.
  • Scheduled all volunteers for weekly programming.
  • Trained volunteers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
  • Invested in key leaders providing opportunities to lead creating investment in the ministry and continued growth.
  • Provided ongoing support for volunteers through regular check-ins, weekly emails, feedback, and volunteer appreciation.
  • Developed and implemented engaging and age-appropriate curriculum for ministry.
  • Set up classroom equipment and organized activities.
  • Served as mentor to children in the church community, offering guidance, encouragement, and support.
  • Connected with families through printed materials, email, and personal contact, encouraging active parental participation in their child's spiritual development.
  • Coordinated special events to enrich the overall spiritual experience and faith development of children and families.

Children's Director

Youth Hope
11.2009 - 08.2010
  • Developed relationships with community members and families to provide services to children and families.
  • Became knowledgeable about community history and present issues from crime to changing demographics.
  • Created an inclusive environment that respected diversity in culture, language, ability level, and learning style.
  • Established trust with children through active listening, empathy, and genuine interest in their lives and experiences.
  • Planned, implemented, and monitored creative and relevant curriculum and activities (after-school Bible clubs at local schools, weekly clubs at the center, pre-teen nights, lock-ins, retreats, and summer camp).
  • Developed small groups, fostering spiritual growth and leadership skills.
  • Scheduled special events, trips, and assisted with summer camp program.
  • Served as a mentor to youth within the teen program.
  • Strengthened leadership abilities in youths by providing opportunities for them to take on responsibilities within group activities or projects.
  • Used patience, skill, and developmentally appropriate discipline to maintain order and safety, promote positive behaviors and coping skills, and enhance social interactions and emotional development..
  • Provided support and guidance to children in conflict resolution.
  • Provided guidance and recommended coping mechanisms for youth dealing with difficult issues.
  • Introduced students to positive and creative outlets such as drawing and poetry.
  • Encouraged students to pursue their passions by exposing them to new hobbies or extracurricular activities they might not have otherwise discovered.

Pre-K & K Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
12.2008 - 11.2009
  • Communicated the vision and ministry philosophy of Family Life Ministry.
  • Managed budget and resources for ministry.
  • Created a welcoming, safe, and nurturing atmosphere for all families and children, adhering to security processes and procedures, vetting volunteers, and ensuring equipment and environment are safe.
  • Recruited and trained volunteers.
  • Scheduled all volunteers for weekly programming.
  • Trained volunteers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
  • Invested in key leaders providing opportunities to lead creating investment in the ministry and continued growth.
  • Provided ongoing support for volunteers through regular check-ins, weekly emails, feedback, and volunteer appreciation.
  • Developed and implemented engaging and age-appropriate curriculum for ministry.
  • Set up classroom equipment and organized activities.
  • Served as mentor to children in the church community, offering guidance, encouragement, and support.
  • Connected with families through printed materials, email, and personal contact, encouraging active parental participation in their child's spiritual development.
  • Coordinated special events to enrich the overall spiritual experience and faith development of children and families.

Early Childhood Director

Heritage Wesleyan Church
08.2006 - 11.2008
  • Oversaw administration and management of all areas of ministry.
  • Collaborated with Family Life Pastor to improve the Early Childhood Ministry.
  • Recruited ministry volunteers, both youth and adults, increasing volunteers by 20%.
  • Trained volunteers (approximately 110) through bi-monthly training sessions, monthly newsletters, weekly emails, and printed materials, increasing leadership investment.
  • Trained volunteers on child development, spiritual development, age-appropriate play and importance of play, effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
  • Wrote and implemented ministry policy and procedures, leader job descriptions, and training protocol for all leaders.
  • Established and implemented guidelines for volunteer/child ratios and safety and security procedures.
  • Scheduled volunteers for Nursery-Preschool classes at three services, across two campuses.
  • Helped to create a welcoming environment for visitors
  • Created a welcoming, safe, and nurturing atmosphere for all families and children, adhering to security processes and procedures, vetting volunteers, and ensuring equipment and environment are safe.
  • Mentored key leaders, providing opportunities to lead creating investment in the ministry and continued growth.
  • Provided ongoing support for volunteers through regular check-ins, weekly emails, feedback, and volunteer appreciation.
  • Mentored youth volunteers through bible studies, mission trip support, attending school functions, and meals.
  • Built teams within the ministry, such as Pit Crew and Road Crew, to better meet the needs of leaders and children resulting in increased participation from church families.
  • Developed and implemented engaging and age-appropriate curriculum for ministry.
  • Created curriculum for use on two short-term missionary trips: Euro Conference 2006 and Mexico Spring 2007.
  • Set up classroom equipment and organized activities for weekly and special programming.
  • Connected with families through printed materials, email, and personal contact, encouraging active parental participation in their child's spiritual development.
  • Coordinated special events to enrich the overall spiritual experience and faith development of children and families: Princess Tea and Knights of the King's Forest.
  • Spoke at leaders’ trainings for other ministries as requested.
  • Provided spiritual care through visitation, counseling, and prayer.
  • Wrote sermons and preached as needed.
  • Responsible for duties previously assigned to the role of Childcare Coordinator (see below).

Shelter Counselor

Family Resources
03.2006 - 08.2006
  • Answered 24-hour crisis line providing counseling and support, providing crisis intervention services to individuals experiencing acute distress or dangerous situations, offering immediate support and stabilization.
  • Assessed the needs of the caller to determine the nature and extent of clients' emotional, behavioral, or mental health issues.
  • Managed high-stress situations effectively, prioritizing caller needs and maintaining composure under pressure.
  • Adapted communication style based on individual caller needs, promoting positive rapport-building even during challenging conversations.
  • Communicated with on-call DV/R&SA Victim Advocates and law enforcement to ensure victims received the support needed promptly.
  • Provided information and referrals to law enforcement and medical personnel regarding DV and R/SA.
  • Maintained daily log and entry of data into the database in a timely fashion.
  • Enhanced hotline efficiency with effective call handling and timely follow-up actions.
  • Provided overnight assistance to women and children living at the domestic violence shelter.
  • Maintained a safe and supportive environment for clients to discuss issues through consistent communication, empathetic listening skills, non-judgemental responses, and understanding of their unique challenges.
  • Maintained detailed records of client interactions, ensuring accurate documentation for future reference.
  • Communicated regularly with other professionals involved in the client's care for coordinated service delivery efforts.
  • Maintained appropriate protocols regarding shelter location, building entry, and security checks to ensure safety.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development training to remain knowledgeable on best practices regarding domestic violence and rape and sexual assault.

Child Care Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
02.2006 - 08.2006
  • Oversaw childcare for ministry events not related to the weekend service for children ages birth through 12.
  • Recruited, hired and processed paperwork for childcare workers, ages 14 and up.
  • Maintained attendance records and payroll hours.
  • Supervised, trained, and mentored approximately 15 childcare workers.
  • Published monthly newsletter for childcare workers, providing up to date info regarding events, child development, and policies and procedures.
  • Facilitated conflict resolution among child care workers.
  • Maintained quality child care, focusing on safety, security, and developmentally appropriate practices.
  • Verified proper sign-in and sign-out procedures according to optimal security protections for children.
  • Provided compassionate care during emergencies or illness, administering first aid when necessary and communicating promptly with parents regarding any concerns or incidents.
  • Created a welcoming and fun atmosphere by incorporating age-appropriate games and activities for children.
  • Organized classroom resources, activities, and supplies for childcare workers.
  • Adapted activities to meet varying needs and interests of children under care.
  • Encouraged positive behavior and manners through example and gentle guidance, assisting with conflict between children, teaching resolution skills and empathy.
  • Backed up staff by assisting with difficult behavioral situations.
  • Planned and implemented special programming for children on all-day or multi-day events.
  • Developed strong relationships with families, establishing trust and rapport, communicating with parents regarding behavioral issues and strategies to address if needed.
  • Communicated monthly with all ministry departments within the church, providing information on childcare policies, procedures, and costs.

Site Manager

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
08.2004 - 02.2006
  • Managed grant-funded programs (LIHEAP, FEMA, community funds) aimed at addressing specific community needs such as energy assistance, housing, and life skills and mental health support.
  • Oversaw daily operations of the outreach office, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
  • Managed program budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of funds towards essential services.
  • Participated in community events as a representative of the organization, increasing awareness of available resources and addressing challenges faced by the community.
  • Provided crisis intervention services when needed, ensuring immediate safety and connecting individuals with appropriate resources.
  • Established strong rapport with clients through empathetic listening skills, creating an atmosphere of trust and support during difficult times in their lives.
  • Conducted thorough assessments of client needs to determine appropriate resources and services for individual situations.
  • Helped clients navigate social services and access needed resources.
  • Coordinated and advocated with different service providers, landlords, and utility companies to meet clients' individual needs.
  • Gathered, organized, and input information into agency database system.
  • Kept case files updated, accurate, and aligned with requirements.
  • Generated reports detailing findings, ensuring accuracy, providing recommendations, and complying with all agency, state, and federal guidelines.
  • Provided orientation, training, and supervision to all staff assigned to the outreach office.
  • Optimized scheduling to ensure full coverage during peak hours without overstaffing, balancing customer service with cost efficiency.
  • Conducted performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas of improvement and guiding professional development plans.
  • Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
  • Enhanced communication within the team by holding regular meetings and encouraging open dialogue among all members.

Community Servcies Specialist

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
01.2004 - 08.2004
  • Communicated professionally with individuals from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
  • Assisted individuals and families applying for LIHEAP assistance and other federal and agency funds.
  • Coordinated with different utility service providers to meet clients' individual needs.
  • Intervened in crisis situations to obtain support for clients and reduce escalation or recurrence risks.
  • Gathered, organized, and input information into agency database system.
  • Maintained accurate records of client interactions, ensuring compliance with confidentiality guidelines and organizational protocols.

Program Manager

Boys & Girls Club of the Mississippi Valley
03.2003 - 12.2003
  • Oversaw club program development and implementation for youth ages 6-18.
  • Evaluated programs and monitored implementation to achieve objectives.
  • Created, implemented, and assessed weekly teen nights for community youth.
  • Coordinated special events, guest speakers (Visiting Artist Program), and field trips (IMAX, Riverside Park) to enrich students' experience and growth further.
  • Supported students' academic growth by offering homework assistance and tutoring when needed.
  • Applied understanding of community history, culture, and present issues to meet the mission.
  • Created an inclusive environment that respected diversity in culture, language, ability level, and learning style.
  • Communicated respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Developed partnerships with parents to build awareness of the club program, increase support, and provide services.
  • Enhanced parent satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly, professionally, and compassionately.
  • Established relationships with local school officials, neighborhood police, and the Floreciente Neighborhood Association to bolster community engagement and increase program capacity.
  • Promoted learning and social-emotional development through structured and unstructured after-school activities.
  • Facilitated group activities that promoted social skills development, communication and problem-solving skills, and positive peer interactions among students.
  • Supported the emotional well-being of students by providing a listening ear, guidance, and encouragement during challenging situations.
  • Enforced rules and managed the club with clear expectations, consistent reinforcement strategies, and developmentally appropriate discipline.
  • Utilized conflict resolution skills to mediate disputes between students when necessary, creating a harmonious environment for all participants.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop creative activities for students, leading to increased engagement and enjoyment.
  • Maintained open attitude to exploring new ideas and eagerness to take on tough problems.
  • Coordinated snack preparation for students during program hours while adhering to strict dietary guidelines and allergy restrictions.
  • Managed daily attendance records, ensuring accurate documentation of student participation in the program.
  • Actively participated in staff meetings and professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in child care provision.
  • Maintained equipment inventory, care of equipment, making recommendations for future equipment, supplies, and overall facility use.
  • Supervised 5-8 program aides providing training, mentoring, and assistance to achieve youth development outcomes
  • CPR/First Aid Certified

Social Events Coordinator

Angelus Retirement Community
08.2002 - 03.2003
  • Developed and maintained a year-round calendar of events and activities for residents in retirement and assisted-living communities, boosting social interaction among residents
  • Established clear objectives and goals for each event.
  • Planned resident outings and special events to mark holidays, celebrate special occasions, and foster community.
  • Designed and distributed a monthly newsletter to residents, encouraging engagement.
  • Solicited input from residents to continually improve the quality of activity offerings, ensuring a high level of satisfaction was maintained.
  • Adapted programming in response to changing resident needs or interests, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to providing person-centered care.
  • Developed strong relationships with residents and their families, fostering a supportive community environment.
  • Assisted with safety and emergency planning to secure resident safety during activities and outside the facility.
  • Provided safe transportation to facilitate residents attending activities and events outside of the facility.
  • Performed assessments on activity programs to determine what specific activities were suitable.
  • Managed budgets effectively to ensure adequate resources were allocated for all planned activities and events.
  • Supported director by developing status reports on activities and events, budget issues, and resident concerns or needs.

Resident Manager

WIU, Family & Graduate Housing
02.2001 - 06.2002
  • Managed diverse housing complex for graduate, family, international, and non-traditional students
  • Oversaw move-in/move-out processes to ensure seamless transitions.
  • Maintained safety standards within the property, conducting regular checks and initiating corrective measures when needed.
  • Reported and documented maintenance requests and assisted with response by appropriate services.
  • Conducted property move-ins, move-outs, and walk-through inspections.
  • Provided for peaceful and safe tenant relations through complaint management and conflict resolution.
  • Delivered emergency 24-hour on-call service for tenants assisting with building issues, crisis intervention, counseling, referral, and other assistance as needed.
  • Fostered a positive living environment, organizing community events that encouraged resident interaction and a sense of belonging such as Fire Prevention Week, Harvest Feast, and Holiday Potluck.

Lend & Learn Library Specialist (AmeriCorps)

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
08.2000 - 08.2001
  • Oversaw resource lending library for in-home daycare providers.
  • Answered patron questions regarding library services and resources in person or by phone.
  • Cataloged and organized library resources.
  • Handled check-in and check-out process of library resources.
  • Developed and implemented a summer visiting program to provide educational activities to children in daycare homes
  • Provided training on child abuse, childcare assistance, parenting, and educational activities for children.
  • Promoted resource library through printed materials and speaking at local community organizations.

Subsidy Specialist

Community Actin of Eastern Iowa
11.1999 - 08.2000
  • Managed approximately 100 cases working directly with a diverse group of parents from the application process to employment/child care changes to monthly billing by providers.
  • Facilitated communication between all parties involved in a case, ensuring a clear understanding of responsibilities and expectations.
  • Gathered, organized, and input information into agency and state databases, ensuring daycare providers paid appropriately.
  • Maintained accurate records and documentation, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitating seamless audits.
  • Provided ongoing education to families and daycare providers families about available resources, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care.
  • Referred families and daycare providers to appropriate team members, community agencies, and organizations to meet needs.
  • Participated in community events to promote services, and recruit and educate child care providers.

Children's & Youth Pastor

Gospel Lighthouse Church of God
08.1995 - 08.2000
  • Raised congregational awareness of needs and contributions of youth to church life and operations.
  • Oversaw youth ministry budget and tracked all expenses.
  • Taught and counseled youth ages [Number] to [Number].
  • Planned weekly groups as well as special events and overnight retreats.
  • Built lasting relationships with youth and parents or guardians.
  • Scheduled and managed teams of youth volunteers.
  • Utilized various teaching techniques to effectively communicate biblical truths to young people in an engaging and relevant manner.
  • Supported young adults during times of transition by offering guidance, resources, and encouragement for pursuing their faith journey outside the context of formal youth ministry programming.
  • Mentored young adults through one-on-one counseling sessions, fostering personal development and spiritual growth.
  • Empowered young people to take ownership of their faith journey through small group discussions and Bible study sessions.
  • Organized successful retreats that provided opportunities for spiritual reflection, personal growth, and fellowship among peers.
  • Created an inclusive atmosphere that welcomed individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the youth group.
  • Managed budgets responsibly while prioritizing spending on essential materials needed for effective programming in line with church goals.
  • Facilitated collaboration among different age groups within the congregation through joint service projects and shared learning experiences.
  • Enhanced community outreach efforts by organizing mission trips, volunteer projects, and fundraising events.
  • Recruited volunteers from the congregation to assist in various aspects of the youth ministry program such as event planning or leading small groups during Bible studies or retreats.
  • Planned and conducted worship services, wrote sermons, and worked with key church leaders to carry out church mission.
  • Officiated special services such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and nursing home services.
  • Provided spiritual care through visitation, counseling, and prayer.
  • Oversaw administration and management of all areas of ministry.
  • Fostered spiritual growth and personal development in youth through tailored mentorship programs.
  • Provided pastoral care and counseling to youth dealing with personal challenges, offering guidance and support.
  • Improved learning with creation of dynamic, interactive lesson plans that covered essential biblical teachings.
  • Secured resources for youth ministry activities, managing budget effectively to maximize impact.
  • Boosted youth engagement, introducing variety of extracurricular activities that catered to different interests.
  • Built strong relationships with parents and guardians to support holistic development of their children.
  • Developed and delivered engaging sermons that connected with younger audience, enhancing their understanding of faith.

Children's & Youth Pastor

Gospel Lighthouse Church of God
08.1995 - 08.2000
  • Oversaw administration and management of all areas of ministry for children and youth, ages 4-18.
  • Developed and delivered engaging sermons that connected with a younger audience, enhancing their understanding of faith.
  • Utilized various teaching techniques to effectively communicate biblical truths to young people in an engaging and relevant manner, empowering children and youth to take ownership of their faith journey.
  • Developed and wrote curriculum for weekly bible studies, Sunday school and children’s church programming for grades 3rd-8th.
  • Boosted children and youth engagement, introducing a variety of extracurricular activities that catered to different interests in the areas of art, drama, music, and writing.
  • Participated in the state-wide denomination youth talent competition.
  • Organized successful outreach and family events that provided opportunities for connection, fun, fellowship among peers, and personal growth: Family Nights, Fall Festival, and New Year’s Eve Lock-In.
  • Promoted and attended summer camps (Youth Counselor of the Year - 1996).
  • Fostered spiritual growth and personal development in children and youth through tailored mentorship.
  • Supported young adults during times of transition by offering guidance, resources, and encouragement for pursuing their faith journey outside the context of formal youth ministry programming.
  • Managed behavioral problems in a positive and developmentally age-appropriate manner, encouraging personal responsibility, personal empowerment, and healthy interpersonal skills.
  • Built strong and lasting relationships with parents and guardians to support the holistic development of their children.
  • Communicating consistently and effectively with parents and guardians through monthly newsletters and regular individual and parent meetings.
  • Planned and conducted worship services, wrote sermons, and worked with lead pastors to carry out the church’s mission.
  • Officiated special services such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and nursing home services.
  • Provided spiritual care through visitation, counseling, and prayer.

Team Leader & Residential Counselor

Family Resources - WYC
10.1997 - 10.1999
  • Supervised a team of 20 residential counselors while managing a 24-hour residential facility for juvenile sex offenders.
  • Guided new Residential Counselors during their onboarding process, supporting successful integration into the team environment.
  • Provided training to Residential counselors on mentoring, conflict mediation, milieu safety, child abuse, power and control cycle, best practices, and agency policies and procedures.
  • Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Member of on-call emergency response team for crisis intervention within the facility.
  • Evaluated team member performance against established objectives during regular reviews, praising achievements or identifying areas requiring further development.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of residential counseling, enhancing overall effectiveness in the role.


  • Maintained safe and supportive residential environments for at-risk individuals (juvenile sex offenders), contributing to their treatment plans and overall well-being.
  • Developed strong rapport with residents through empathetic listening and compassionate communication strategies.
  • Communicated behavior choices to residents by outlining the positive and negative consequences of choices.
  • Reduced behavioral incidents by employing de-escalation techniques and maintaining a calm environment.
  • Resolved conflicts by performing in-time crisis intervention and enforcing discipline and behavior metrics, ensuring the safety of all residents while adhering to established protocols.
  • Trained in Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI).
  • Facilitated therapy groups to help clients address anger management issues and improve interpersonal relationship skills.
  • Promoted independent living skills through coaching residents in daily tasks such as meal preparation, hygiene, and budgeting.
  • Addressed behavioral and emotional needs of residents through activities, group classes, and interventions, increasing resident socialization, interpersonal, and social skills.
  • Coordinated recreational activities for residents, fostering social interaction and positive group dynamics.
  • Supported case managers in the development and implementation of continuing care plans for residents.
  • Delivered targeted interventions for individual residents based on their specific needs and treatment objectives.
  • Assisted residents in adhering to treatment plans by setting up medical appointments, arranging transportation, coordinating services, and providing emotional support.
  • Monitored and documented client progress toward meeting goals and objectives.
  • Documented resident interactions thoroughly, maintaining accurate records for case management purposes.
  • Delivered frequent summaries on resident progression and regression in treatment to provide recommendations toward treatment plan for success.
  • Conducted regular check-ins with residents to monitor progress, address concerns, and provide ongoing support.
  • Served as a liaison between families or guardians of clients when necessary; providing updates about clients' progress or addressing any concerns they may have.
  • Advocated for resident needs within team meetings, with social workers, therapists, and juvenile court officers, ensuring appropriate levels of care were provided consistently across all cases.
  • Administered medications as prescribed, following all medical policies and procedures.

Child Care Leader/Health & Safety Coordinator

Kids' Choice
02.1995 - 05.1996
  • Created a welcoming environment that provided before and after-school care and promoted socialization and peer interaction among students.
  • Monitored children's activities to verify safety and well-being.
  • Ensured child safety through vigilant supervision, and maintaining proper ratios during indoor and outdoor activities.
  • Served as teacher’s aide for an in-house licensed Kindergarten program.
  • Transported students to and from local elementary schools.
  • Created, planned, and implemented a three-month thematic daily program for school-age children for the summer.
  • Developed strong relationships with families, providing regular updates on child progress, needs, and behaviors, and establishing trust.
  • Implemented daily routines and activities to stimulate and engage children.
  • Developed engaging age-appropriate activities around thematic areas: recreational, social, drama, art, and computers.
  • Coordinated special events such as field trips, holiday parties, and family nights to create lasting memories for children under our care.
  • Fostered creativity, improved writing skills, and taught basic computer skills through a kid-created monthly Kids’ Klub newsletter.
  • Managed behavior issues effectively using positive reinforcement techniques and developmentally appropriate discipline, fostering a respectful atmosphere within the childcare setting.
  • Administered first aid when needed, adhering to established protocols to ensure child safety and well-being.
  • Maintained clean facilities by following sanitation protocols, ensuring a healthy environment for all children.
  • Handled daily administrative tasks efficiently to minimize time away from children.
  • Collaborated effectively with fellow staff members to create a cohesive team dedicated to providing top-quality childcare services.
  • Developed (where needed) and implemented safety policies and procedures to promote workplace safety.
  • Compiled and organized emergency contact for all children at the center.
  • Conducted routine safety audits of vans and center equipment to identify areas for improvement and implemented corrective actions accordingly.
  • Ensured first aid kits were stocked and up-to-date.
  • Conducted regular safety drills to ensure preparedness in case of emergencies.
  • Streamlined incident reporting processes to ensure timely response and corrective actions.
  • Coordinated safety training for all employees, improving employee understanding of safety procedures.

Education

Master of Arts - Theology and Social Justice

Northeastern Serminary
Rochester, NY

Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts

Indiana Wesleyan University
01.2016

Family Development Specialist Certificate -

University of Iowa
01.2006

Timeline

Social Media Creator and Coordinator

Narratives QC
01.2021 - 02.2023

Founder and Consultant

Narratives QC
06.2019 - Current

Campus Pastor

GracePointe Wesleyan Church
08.2018 - Current

Owner

Annabel Lee Events
04.2014 - 09.2016

Volunteer Young Adult Pastor

Heritage Wesleyan Church
01.2012 - 12.2012

Elementary Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
09.2010 - 08.2011

Children's Director

Youth Hope
11.2009 - 08.2010

Pre-K & K Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
12.2008 - 11.2009

Early Childhood Director

Heritage Wesleyan Church
08.2006 - 11.2008

Shelter Counselor

Family Resources
03.2006 - 08.2006

Child Care Coordinator

Heritage Wesleyan Church
02.2006 - 08.2006

Site Manager

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
08.2004 - 02.2006

Community Servcies Specialist

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
01.2004 - 08.2004

Program Manager

Boys & Girls Club of the Mississippi Valley
03.2003 - 12.2003

Social Events Coordinator

Angelus Retirement Community
08.2002 - 03.2003

Resident Manager

WIU, Family & Graduate Housing
02.2001 - 06.2002

Lend & Learn Library Specialist (AmeriCorps)

Community Action of Eastern Iowa
08.2000 - 08.2001

Subsidy Specialist

Community Actin of Eastern Iowa
11.1999 - 08.2000

Team Leader & Residential Counselor

Family Resources - WYC
10.1997 - 10.1999

Children's & Youth Pastor

Gospel Lighthouse Church of God
08.1995 - 08.2000

Children's & Youth Pastor

Gospel Lighthouse Church of God
08.1995 - 08.2000

Child Care Leader/Health & Safety Coordinator

Kids' Choice
02.1995 - 05.1996

Master of Arts - Theology and Social Justice

Northeastern Serminary

Bachelor of Arts - Liberal Arts

Indiana Wesleyan University

Family Development Specialist Certificate -

University of Iowa

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Jessica McCracken