FrontLiner Profiles: Christine Oblak and Jeanine Nemecek
“FrontLine’s work reaches so many individuals at some of the very worst times of their lives. FrontLine workers never turn their head, but rather do all they can to help. Connecting people to the resources without judgement is foundational to FrontLine’s work.”
- Jeanine Nemecek
“I hold a deep concern for humanity and firmly believe that every individual deserves access to mental wellness resources and the hope it offers, especially during the darkest moments. FrontLine plays a crucial role in providing this to our community.”
- Christine Oblak
Jeanine Nemecek and Christine Oblak are on the FrontLine Service Board of Directors. Jeanine has been involved with FrontLine since 2010, and Christine has been involved since 2016.
Jeanine Nemecek, (Left) and Christine Oblak (Right).
When did you first hear about FrontLine Service?
Jeanine: About 14 years ago from a colleague when I was looking for an opportunity to give back to the community, and she invited me to get involved with the event committee.
Christine: I first heard about FrontLine Service in the Spring of 2015 when my sister, Jeanine, who is also a passionate FrontLine Board member, invited me to attend the annual FrontLine fundraising event, The Art of Healing. I learned so much about the FrontLine mission at this event that I was motivated to support FrontLine immediately.
How did you learn about Camp Bridges?
Jeanine: A previous FrontLine Service board member introduced me to FrontLine, and prior to applying for board membership I was part of the events committee. I participated in helping to plan our annual fundraiser, Camp Bridges, and Twinkle Shop.
Christine: Both formally in a speaker's presentation and informally in conversation with fellow attendees, Camp Bridges was promoted at this fundraiser.
Why did you become a Camp Bridges Buddy?
Jeanine: It’s a great opportunity to spend time with and connect with the children. Most of them often don’t have the opportunity to explore the Cleveland Metroparks and have fun. I am thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this time with the children as they enjoy the activities and remember their loved ones. I enjoy meeting other volunteers and the FrontLine team.
Christine: Being a buddy has been very impactful to me - the resiliency these children exhibit always amazes and humbles me. It is one of my most favorite days of the year. I love doing whatever I can for just that one brief day to help my buddy to playfully heal and to memorialize their loved ones. I'd like to think I helped my buddy to relax and leave their worries behind. I really appreciate the connections I've made with campers and cherish the connections I see form between the campers as well. When they are at camp, the young clients know they are not alone and often are able to share their feelings more openly as a result. To see their happiness is so fulfilling.
What is a Camp Bridges memory that sticks with you?
Jeanine: All the smiling faces. When the children arrive in the morning, you can tell many are cautious and unsure, by the end of the day you can see all the positive connections the children and their buddy have made. Another great memory is the team relay races. The races/events engage all the children and their buddies, and it’s so awesome seeing everyone cheering for each other. It is great to see how many of our community organizations support FrontLine’s mission and make this day possible for the children.
Christine: I hold so many meaningful memories from my Camp Bridges experiences-it's tough to pick only one. That said, I will always remember the conversations—for example, I recall sharing birthdays/zodiac signs in a conversation with my buddy—she shared that her mother (who she tragically lost) and I share the same zodiac sign, and I felt an immediate connection. Also, playing with shoes off in the warm sand of the volleyball court is a great and therapeutic memory. Moreover, the organized hikes up to the Squire’s Castle are consistently so fun, particularly when I'm invited to race along the trail. The trail just buzzes with vibrant energy.
Why did you decide to get more involved with FrontLine and move from volunteer to board member?
Jeanine: I am passionate about the mission and want to make a difference for those in our community who most need help. I work in healthcare and witness daily the challenges those in our community face. Providing stability and security to individuals who are most vulnerable is vital. Our community’s health depends on the health of those who are within the community.
Christine: I recognized my capacity to lend support and felt a genuine desire to create positive change within my community.
In what ways have you been involved with FrontLine Service?
Jeanine: Not only have I participated in Camp Bridges, Twinkle Shop and the annual fundraiser, I have also served as past Board President, Governance Committee Chair, and actively participate on the Development/Event Committee. Over the years, I have led toy and clothing/personal item drives to support Twinkle Shop. I have introduced numerous people to FrontLine Service by inviting them to events and hosting fundraising campaigns. I have connected FrontLine’s trauma response team with a local emergency department to help bridge a gap in service for those who are struggling with thoughts of suicide. I have arranged public speaking opportunities for FrontLine’s leadership at local professional organizations.
Christine: In addition to volunteering at Camp Bridges and Twinkle Shop, I've strived to enhance our fundraising efforts and provide assistance in financial matters by actively participating in the Development and Finance Committees. I like to introduce individuals who are unfamiliar with FrontLine's mission with our work and to attract new supporters.
What do people often misunderstand or don't know about FrontLine or the work we do?
Jeanine: I believe the greater community, including community officials, do not understand the work and mission of FrontLine. I believe they have no idea just how many people and services FrontLine touches throughout Northeast Ohio. FrontLine workers are truly first responders, and often the services they provide are a difference between life and death.
Christine: While people may be acquainted with part of the FrontLine mission, they often lack awareness of the full scope of our activities and the methodologies employed in aiding our clients. Our extensive range of services means that individuals frequently only grasp one aspect of our three primary mission pillars (Homelessness, Crisis, and Trauma). It is less a matter of misunderstanding and more a case of simple unawareness. FrontLine team members are some of the most underappreciated caregivers in our community. Without their hard work, compassion, and concern, so many in need would lack treatment and attention.
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Are you interested in volunteering on FrontLine’s Board of Directors? Bringing your unique skillset to support the work and the staff of the agency is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact in our community. If you are interested in learning more about the Board of Directors or contributing to our endowment fund, email Corrie Taylor at corrie.taylor@frontlineservice.org.