At Easterseals Arkansas, the heartbeat of our mission lies in the dedication of our incredible team members. This week, meet Chelsea Loy, Director of Community Living & Roommate Housing. She is one of the many people who go above and beyond each day to help individuals with disabilities lead more independent and fulfilled lives.
A Calling Rooted in Values
Chelsea Loy brings over 15 years of experience in the fields of intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health, and human services to her leadership role at Easterseals. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Child, and Family Dynamics from Henderson State University and graduate-level coursework toward a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health, Chelsea's academic foundation is strong. But it's her extensive professional certifications that truly showcase her commitment to excellence: Certified Mobile Crisis Coordinator, Center for START Services training through the University of New Hampshire, and Supported Employment Job Coach certification.
Her journey through the field has taken her from Direct Support Professional to mobile Crisis Coordination, Care Coordination, Waiver, and ICF utilization management, and now program leadership. Each role has deepened her understanding of the systems individuals and families must navigate, and each has strengthened her resolve to make those systems work better.
"Easterseals' mission aligned deeply with my personal values around dignity, inclusion, and advocacy," Chelsea shares. "It provided an opportunity to work directly with individuals and families while making a long-term impact within the community."
Problem-Solver and Bridge-Builder
Professionally, Chelsea is known for her exceptional problem-solving abilities, relationship-building skills, and talent for navigating complex systems. She has a unique knack for connecting people, services, and resources in ways that improve outcomes through collaboration, innovation, and person-centered planning.
"I'm best at helping individuals and families navigate complex systems of care, especially during times of crisis or transition," she explains.
Those who work with Chelsea describe her as calm, responsive, empathetic, and persistent. She doesn't give up when challenges arise. Instead, she leans in, finding creative solutions that honor the dignity and goals of the people she serves. Her approach isn't just about managing crises. It's about reimagining how services can be delivered to truly empower people to live independently and experience a higher quality of life.
Chelsea is deeply inspired by individuals, families, and professionals who challenge long-standing approaches and push boundaries. Their resilience and willingness to question "how it's always been done" fuels her own commitment to innovation and advocacy. She sees every obstacle as an opportunity to think differently about what's possible.
Family, Sunshine, and Community
When she's not working, Chelsea's favorite place to be is with her husband and their twin boys, River and Tucker. Quality time with family and friends fills her cup, and a perfect day off includes sunshine, water, and meaningful moments with the people she loves. Whether it's at the beach, on the lake, or anywhere the sun is shining, Chelsea treasures the chance to recharge surrounded by those who matter most.
A proud graduate of Henderson State University who earned Dean's List recognition and the Psi Chi Academic Achievement Award, Chelsea grew up in Malvern, Arkansas. She moved to Arkadelphia in 2010 to begin college, and what started as a new chapter has become home. It's now where she and her husband are raising River and Tucker, building a life rooted in community and connection.
Chelsea enjoys giving back in hands-on ways. She volunteers with Trash Wars in Arkadelphia, working alongside neighbors to keep their town clean and welcoming. She also supports local events and charity fundraisers throughout the year. Perhaps her favorite volunteer role? Coaching her boys' basketball team alongside her husband since the twins were in kindergarten. Now in 5th grade, River and Tucker continue to benefit from their parents' dedication both on and off the court.
A Lifelong Learner
Chelsea genuinely loves learning and will travel across the country for conferences and trainings to fuel her continued growth. She especially enjoys bringing fresh ideas and innovative practices back home to strengthen services for the individuals Easterseals serves. That commitment to professional development isn't just about adding credentials to her resume. It's about staying curious, staying relevant, and staying connected to the cutting edge of what's possible in this field.
A Legacy of Love and Leadership
When asked what she hopes to be remembered for, Chelsea's answer reflects both her personal and professional heart:
"Above all else, I hope to be remembered as a devoted mother, wife, and daughter who loved her family and friends wholeheartedly. Professionally, I want to be known as someone who truly listened, advocated fiercely, led with compassion, and worked tirelessly to make systems better for the people who rely on them."
Her greatest hope is that the care she shows in her personal life is reflected in the way she serves others and leads the work she does. The two things she could never give up? Her purpose-driven work and her family. Both ground her and motivate everything she does.
Chelsea Loy exemplifies what it means to lead with both head and heart. Her calm presence during crises, her fierce advocacy for individuals and families, and her unwavering commitment to innovation make her an invaluable member of the Easterseals Arkansas team.
Thank You, Chelsea!
Easterseals Arkansas thrives because of people like Chelsea Loy, professionals who combine knowledge with heart and expertise with empathy.
Want To Create A World of Possibilities? Join Our Team!
Connect with this story? Consider this your sign. We at Easterseals Arkansas invite you to be a part of something bigger. Whether you're a therapist, educator, or just passionate about helping others, this may be the perfect place for you to not only grow your career but make a meaningful difference.
Opportunities are available now. Together, we can create a world of possibilities; one voice, one breakthrough, one person at a time.
