Chakara Wheeler

Program Officer
Community Impact

Chakara has over 10 years of experience in Education from preschool - 12th grade and has a comprehensive background in classroom management, increased overall student development, and preparing youth for post-secondary education opportunities. After earning her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from the University of Michigan-Flint, she continued to serve the local community to improve early childhood education throughout Genesee County. 

Chakara believes that her purpose is to serve and inspire children and youth any way she can. In her role at CFGF, Chakara serves as the advisor to four Youth Advisory Committees (YAC); Clio, County-wide, Grand Blanc, and South Lakes. These committees are comprised of youth from local high schools who are responsible for reviewing funding requests, recommending grants for programs that benefit Genesee County youth, participating in community service projects, and learning about local community needs.

Get to know Chakara:

Community leadership roles?

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Zeta Beta Omega Chapter; Child Care Network Board 

What is the best part of your job?

Engaging, empowering and advocating with youth. I enjoy learning from our young people, learning from aggregated data and research to create a holistic environment for our community needs. I love how everything we do is centered around community and I am in a space where there is room for growth.

Favorite book or current read?

I am a true bookie and read about 3-5 books a month. I love reading so much I created a book club specifically dedicated to Black women authors. I am also a sucker for a great mystery and thriller. 

Hobbies?

Reading, concerts, gardening, crafting, and completing puzzles