"Chip Cieslinski has been a blessing to Catholic Human Services (CHS) and the Diocese of Gaylord,” says Larry LaCross, who recently took the helm of CHS following Chip’s retirement.
“His leadership, vision and commitment to the mission of CHS consistently lifted us through the challenging years of the pandemic and into new areas of service. Under Chip’s guidance, CHS continued to grow and thrive as we carried out the social mission of the Catholic Church in Northern Michigan. We are grateful for his years of service and pray that God continues to bless him and his family in retirement,” Larry adds.
Journeying North
Chip’s journey to CHS began in the Archdiocese of Detroit, where he served as chief operating officer of Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan for roughly 25 years.
“One day in March of 2016, I received a phone call from the then president of CHS, Dave Martin, asking if I was interested in moving to Northern Michigan and becoming the chief executive officer of CHS,” recalls Chip.
“God truly had a hand in all of this,” Chip explains. “As it turns out, the move to Northern Michigan and CHS was not only the best career move, but the best move for our lives. My time at CHS and knowing the amazing staff have been a huge blessing.”
For the last eight-plus years, Chip’s fortitude has been fruitful. “I think the biggest impact we made while I have been here is letting the community know the scope of what CHS does,” shares Chip.
CHS provides counseling, open adoption, substance-use prevention, family support and senior volunteer opportunities, serving people throughout the diocese.
Under Chip’s leadership, CHS expanded its scope of services. One of the recently added programs is Peer Recovery Coaches. These coaches help others in recovery maintain their sobriety, connect to resources and provide encouragement.
Another new program, which is still in the development while funding is secured, is a marriage program. It will provide education to young people, pre-marriage counseling, marriage retreats and marriage counseling.
Navigating the Uncertainty
Chip’s most significant contribution to CHS was his leadership during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I did not want to be the leader that closed CHS for good,” he says, recalling the turbulent early months of 2020.
By the grace of God, CHS not only survived but thrived.
“We learned a lot about our clients’ needs and how to best help them,” explains Chip. “Some clients did better with remote appointments, as they had more protection with a screen between them and the counselor.”
Chip admits his time at CHS was special, but he is looking forward to retirement. “My wife, Teresa, and I will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary in May. We plan to remain in Traverse City, as we have developed great friendships and have integrated into the community.
“Teresa and I have two adult sons who are married, and each has two children. We have four grandchildren currently under the age of 3. My hope is to be involved with them, as they all live either in Grand Rapids or Kalamazoo. God has blessed me, so it is time for me to pass those blessings on,” ends Chip.
