Crystal
McKiernan
Director of Programs
Crystal grew up in the Modesto area, graduated from Stanislaus State, and has worked in social services in a variety of roles. She began her career working with children who have disabilities, transitioned into work helping to meet the needs of children in foster care, and now is serving the community on a broader scale in her role as the Director of Programs.
She is married to her high school sweetheart, TJ, and together they have four children. Even as a little girl, Crystal remembers wanting to help those around her. In a world that is often divisive, Crystal longs to be a bridge builder. Someone who brings people together and celebrates the unique perspectives they have to offer. Her work as the Director of Programs combines her desire to meet the needs of the most vulnerable in our community along with her passion for inspiring others to join in this effort.
During her time off, Crystal loves Jesus, enjoying a great cup of coffee, exploring the outdoors with her family, gardening, and designing and organizing home spaces.
What is your role at Love Stanislaus County?
I serve as the Director of Programs. In this role, I champion the incredible work of all the Love Stanislaus County programs as well as seek to build up and support my team in the best way possible.
What do you love the most about your job?
I feel so grateful that this is what I get to do each and every day. I never grow tired of seeing the impact of a community who puts their differences aside and comes together to help those around them. Getting a front row seat to hearing the stories about how our programs help people in incredibly difficult situations and inspire community members to take action to see and care for some of the most vulnerable in our community is such a privilege.
What do you love most about living in Stanislaus County?
Hands down it's the people. We have some of the most generous people living in this area. I see it all the time. The way they generously step up to help those they will never meet. Both in my professional and personal life I have made relationships with people who have impacted me in amazing ways.
In what ways do you participate in the community?
I am a member of One Church. I attend church at the Modesto campus with my family. I serve on both the worship team as well as the welcome team. I have also been involved in the foster care and adoptive community in this area. I have made many connections through serving on the Board of Directors for Family Connections Christian Adoptions as well as serving foster and adoptive mamas at Revive events.