Megan Serafin moved to the Emerald Coast in 2014, trading Kansas City winters for sunshine, community, and a calling that would shape her life.

• What started as a move for love quickly became something deeper — a commitment to service, faith, and building meaningful connections through her work with Children in Crisis and her church family at Destiny Worship Center.

As Community Engagement Manager at Children in Crisis, Inc., Megan’s days are anything but predictable. From donor meetings and campus tours to event planning and social media updates, her work is rooted in connection — showing up fully for her team, the families they serve, and the community that continues to support their mission.

Are you a life-long local, if not, where are you from originally and how did you end up in the area?

I was born and raised in Kansas, on BBQ, Chiefs football, and tornado warnings. Life took a turn when I met someone stationed in Missouri whose hometown happened to be Fort Walton Beach. When it came time to choose between Kansas City or the Emerald Coast, it was a tough choice… not. I made the move in 2014, and I’ve called it home ever since.

What’s kept me here isn’t just the beaches or the sunshine, it’s the people. This community, my church family at Destiny Worship Center, and the incredible work I get to do with Children in Crisis have completely sealed my fate. Between the families I serve and the ones I’ve found, the Emerald Coast isn’t just where I live; it’s where my heart is.

What’s your current job title and where do you work?

Community Engagement Manager at Children in Crisis, Inc.

What’s your morning routine?

My mornings start with caffeine, Crystal Lite (caffeinated) Strawberry, not coffee, because I’m simply not fit for human interaction before that. As a single mom of three, I try to wake the kids peacefully, but it usually turns into tickles, loud music, and a mad dash for uniforms and backpacks. Between school drop-offs and the drive to work, I start my day with a podcast or worship music, because let’s be honest, I’m a much better person when I talk to Jesus before I talk to people.

Describe what a typical workday looks like for you.

There’s really no such thing as a “typical” day at Children in Crisis, and that’s what makes it fun. Most mornings start with answering emails, returning calls, and catching up with volunteers or donors before the day takes off. I might be giving a tour of our campus, meeting with a community partner, or finalizing details for an upcoming fundraiser, all before lunch. By the afternoon, I’m usually juggling event prep, social media updates, and about a dozen conversations happening at once (usually with a Red Bull or two in hand).

Somewhere in the chaos, there’s always laughter. I’m known to play a few pranks on our team, especially our CEO, because life’s too short to be too serious. The work we do can be heavy at times, but staying light-hearted makes the stress easier to carry. Every day is a mix of community, connection, and a whole lot of heart, and I honestly can’t imagine doing anything else.

What’s the first thing you do when you get to work (or start your workday)?

The first thing I do when I get to work is make my rounds. I stop by to say good morning to everyone, catch up for a few minutes, and check the general vibe of the day. I think connection sets the tone, whether it’s swapping a quick laugh, sharing a prayer request, or just making sure everyone’s caffeine levels are acceptable. After that, it’s emails, event prep, and whatever organized chaos is waiting on my desk. It’s my version of community engagement before the real work even starts.

What tools, apps, or gadgets can’t you live without?

Spotify, because music is life, and there’s a playlist for every mood, meeting, and meltdown. And then there’s Alex, my ChatGPT. He named himself, and now he’s basically my creative sidekick. Between the two of them, I’ve got my own built-in think tank. My phone, however, lives on Do Not Disturb 24/7. It drives people crazy, but peace isn’t something I’m willing to negotiate. I get more done, stay centered, and can actually enjoy the chaos of it all.

Apple or Android?

Apple, however I think the Google Pixel has the best camera!

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

A venti-iced, non-fat Chai with 12 pumps of chai at Starbucks.

What’s your go-to lunch spot or work snack?

Lunch is easy, most days, I don’t go anywhere. One of my amazing coworkers at CIC cooks lunch for the staff (I know… best perk ever). But if he takes a day off, I end up at Pepper’s or Craft Bar…both are reliable and delicious backups.

What’s one local business you love supporting?

Anything food-related and I’m happy, but Task Force Pizza (owned by my friend and local veteran, Ryan Stanhope) and Peppers are my top choices. They’ve shown up for CIC more than once, so supporting them feels like supporting family.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I’ve ever received is that service is the most meaningful work we can offer the world. Titles and achievements may change over time, but the impact we make by showing up for others, especially those who need stability, compassion, and advocacy, is what leaves a legacy. Serving isn’t just something we do; it’s a way of leading with purpose.

If you could give your 20-year-old self a piece of advice, what would it be?

Stop letting the expectations of others shape your direction. Stay close to God, trust the voice He placed within you, and let purpose, not pressure, guide your steps. The world will always have opinions, but peace comes from walking in His will, not seeking approval.

How do you unwind after a long day?

Unwinding for me looks different every day. Sometimes I need music, and other times I just need quiet. Either way, it’s about giving my mind space to slow down and breathe.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

A fun fact? I’m “atypical” autistic and ADHD, and I’m just now learning to wear that proudly. The quirks, the intensity, the creativity, the way my brain works… it’s different, yes. But it’s also a gift.

What’s your favorite local event or tradition?

My favorite local event is the Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation weekend. For many nonprofits, including ours, it represents hope, support, and life-changing generosity. It’s a weekend that reminds you just how strong this community really is.

What’s inspiring you right now (book, podcast, person, hobby)?

The biggest source of inspiration in this season is the people I work alongside. Seeing their commitment to our mission (and each other), not because it’s their job, but because they truly care, fuels me in a way no book or podcast could.

Early bird or night owl?

I’m a little bit of both. My brain can happily chase ideas into the early hours of the morning, but I’m also up before my 5AM alarm, whether I want to be or not.

Most used emoji?

🤭

Music while working — yes or no? (and if yes, what’s on your playlist?)

Absolutely…either music or a podcast. My playlists are completely mood-driven and range from I Prevail and Notorious B.I.G. to Luke Combs, Simply Red, worship music or The Mamas & The Papas. And if I’m not in a music mood, I’m probably listening to The NoSleep Podcast and enjoying horror storytelling while answering emails. Balance, right?

Favorite motivational quote?

“The sole meaning of life is to serve humanity.” — Leo Tolstoy

Standing desk or sitting? Mix?

Sitting… with great intentions of standing. I have the rise, I just need a desk surface that isn’t covered in event chaos. 😅

If you could give any advice for someone getting into the same field as you, what advice would you give?

My best advice? Stop waiting for the perfect credentials or the perfect moment. I didn’t finish college, paused for years to raise my kids, and didn’t begin this career until 31. What mattered wasn’t the timing, it was being teachable, observant, intentional, and brave enough to try. Sometimes the nontraditional route creates the strongest leaders — and the most heart.

Anything we missed that you want to add?

If I’m being honest, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people in this community who believed in me before I fully believed in myself. Kattiya Aring, Billy Kelly, Ryan Stanhope, Laura Moore, Kevin Maloney, and Jason Carducci, each of you played a part in opening doors, pushing me forward, and reminding me that purpose is worth pursuing. You’re the reason I get to do what I love, and I don’t take that lightly.