Her Story
About Danielle
Danielle Voelkel serves as a case manager at CHESNA, a not-for-profit organization, where she provides client-facing support to adults and youth navigating mental health challenges, substance use recovery, and housing instability. Her work includes teaching basic life skills such as budgeting and meal preparation, accompanying clients to court, and helping them access resources like disability benefits or family reunification services. Prior to this role, she spent approximately 12 years as a high school English teacher before resigning in 2023 to pursue outreach and education on mental health and substances within schools and community groups. Voelkel is an active member of the Family Council for the Birth to Five organization in Illinois, where she connects families with community resources. She is driven by a deep sense of purpose rooted in her family's public service tradition, including her grandfather's nearly 20-year tenure as mayor of Fairview Heights, and she emphasizes the importance of advocating for those facing systemic barriers while trusting one's transferable skills during career transitions.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Danielle
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would just say to never doubt yourself and your education and your skills and what you bring. A lot of us set out and have a certain degree, and we think we're kind of locked into that. I've learned later in life, I just recently turned [AGE], so it was very scary to make such a huge career change, but I trusted my gut, and I trusted myself, and my education, and my skills. So I just say never doubt yourself, and it's never too late to try again, try something new.
02What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
There's always been sort of an activist inside me. I've always been kind of outspoken when it comes to politics or public policy. My grandfather was the mayor of Fairview Heights for almost 20 years. I feel like I have to have some kind of career that has a deeper purpose. I feel that I have this privilege and duty to stand up and advocate for people that don't always see the world in the way that I can see it.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.