Erica Chianelli has been an Arlington Heights resident for nearly 18 years and is a mom to three kids (college, high school, middle school). She has more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, having worked at a variety of organizations, including, most recently, as Executive Director of FamilyForward, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income working families in the northwest suburbs achieve financial stability. She is on the Board of the Historic Arlington Neighborhood Association (HANA), the marketing committee for the Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation, and has volunteered for various school and church activities over the years. Chianelli currently works at Lakeside Bank as VP of Marketing, Events & Community Outreach.
Crazy Rich Asians
by Kevin Kwan
Outside of the crazy rich part, this book (and movie!) is totally relatable to me. As an Asian American, I can understand the importance of family and "saving face." So many cultural nuances displayed in this book resonated with me. Plus, it is so entertaining!
The Go-Giver
by Bob Burg and John David Mann
In my experience in the nonprofit sector, I have encountered so many generous people who give of their time, talents and treasures. While I was often focused on seeing what I could "get" out of people in the name of the organization, I realized that I needed to "give" as well. That giving could be taking the time to connect people to each other, and taking time to build relationships, without expecting anything in return.
The Great Alone
by Kristin Hannah
This book really inspired me to want to visit Alaska. I haven't been, but I really want to go now! It also helped me understand a bit more how the heart and brain often don't agree, and how hard it is for some domestic violence victims to "just leave."
Ordinary People
by Judith Guest
This book actually scarred me. To this day, I get weak thinking about the inside of my wrists.
Such a Fun Age
by Kiley Reid
This book was an entertaining read that delved into some deep social justice issues. It really shows how every person's story is different, and how meaning well doesn't always mean doing well.