Rostro de Cristo Fellow Rachel Nease

Rachel Nease, an RdC alum (Arbolito 2017-2018) will be one of our first Fellows in our new community in the Dominican Republic. She will assist the social services team at ASCALA (Asociación Scalabriniana al Servicio de la Movilidad Humana) by developing a comprehensive intake and reporting system to help the organization serve its clients in a variety of ways. Using her education and experience in social work, she will also work closely with the psychologist at ASCALA to enhance their offerings for positive mental health and spiritual development, especially for women.

“I’m thrilled to reconnect with Rostro de Cristo and be part of a faith-based community again,” said Rachael. “My previous time in Ecuador deeply enriched my faith and contributed significantly to my personal growth. I embrace Latin American liberation theology, which emphasizes that God wishes for His people to lead better lives. This belief has become a cornerstone of my journey.”

Rachel facilitating a gathering for women along with Ascala colleagues Miriam Mateo and Sr. Nyzelle Donde.

Rachel Nease was raised in a small town in Colorado, just about an hour’s drive from Denver, and graduated from Gonzaga University, a Jesuit school dedicated to nurturing wholehearted leaders who are committed to serving the common good and giving glory to God. Although she pursued a degree in biology with the intention of following a research path, Rachel found herself increasingly drawn to human services and the joy of direct interactions with people. As graduation drew nearer, she began contemplating a shift toward social work. “I always knew I wanted to be in a human services environment, but I wasn’t entirely sure which direction to take. That changed when I met a former volunteer from Rostro de Cristo. I was captivated by the idea of their year-long volunteer program in Ecuador.”

From 2017 to 2018, Rachel dedicated a year to volunteering in the Arbolito Community of Duran, Ecuador. “In the mornings, I assisted at a natural medicine clinic and engaged in programs that supported the elderly. The afternoons were all about spending time with children. I genuinely loved both roles. They provided me with incredibly enriching experiences.” Her time volunteering with Rostro de Cristo transformed her life and significantly altered her career trajectory. “My experience in Ecuador ignited my passion for human services and motivated me to pursue a Master of Social Work at the University of Denver upon returning to the United States.”

Rachel is now a licensed clinical social worker and addiction counselor, bringing a wealth of experience to her field. For the past five years, she has worked as a Clinical Supervisor at a medication-assisted therapy clinic that provides essential support to individuals grappling with substance use disorders. In March, she departed for the Dominican Republic to join our two other fellows in the work of strengthening our partnership with ASCALA to see the face of Christ in the cane fields of Consuelo.