My name is Jillian Catherine Roels, I am the Founder of SparkYourHeart.org. 

I am a proud graduate (and past cheerleader- GO ZAGS!) of  Gonzaga University '16 with a degree in Sociology and Psychology, and spent 4 years as a Pediatric Mental Health Specialist and Social Services Specialist at Seattle Children's Hospital in the Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Unit and Emergency. In 2021, I accepted a position as a Certified Child Life Specialist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. 


I was Miss Puget Sound 2018 and kept busy with appearances and preparation for Miss Washington, a preliminary to the Miss America competition. It was an honor to be a part of the Miss America Organization, which helps empower women as one of the nation's leading achievement programs for young women. The crown has four points, which symbolize service, style, scholarship, and success, each one playing a crucial part in my own life.


I have always had a passion for serving others, and grew up with the example of my mother who owned her own nonprofit organization. Witnessing the difference she made in the lives of others had a profound impact on me and taught me lessons of kindness and compassion for others. I feel that I fulfill my purpose when I use my abilities to help and give to others. Spark Your Heart allows me to fulfill my passion and purpose through different outlets while inspiring others to join my efforts.


Frequently someone will say they would like to be involved in service, but are not sure how or where to start. Spark Your Heart bridges the gap between those wanting to make a difference, and the organizations and opportunities by which they can do so. My goal is to inspire others to be the change and "spark a difference" in their communities. I want to help every individual recognize their potential to help and give to others, as well as find their purpose through service. Even the smallest act of kindness can spark a huge difference. 


To join me in my efforts or to suggest a service idea you would like to carryout, please visit the "Contact Us" link below and send me a message!


XOXO,

Jillian Roels

        Jillian 2020-2021 -"You Can Do Hard Things!"​

Cincinnati Children's Hospital 

It has been quite a journey - I took extra courses with UC Santa Barbara and applied for a very competitive practicum and found out I would be at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston Jan 2020. I spent several weeks doing my Practicum before the virus struck sending all interns home.  Luckily, I had the hours I needed and was able to come back to my job at Seattle Children's Hospital.  While working, I applied to several hospitals for my official internship.  Cincinnati Children's Hospital, while known to be the best and most supportive Child Internship program was also the hardest application process (and video!) but definitely my dream location......

I received notice I was in the final rotation of interviews, and then told I made the internship and would be starting January 2021.  I packed my things and joined my family across the country in Connecticut so we could be together for the holidays.  In January, we drove to Cincinnati and and here I am!  

This internship has been the most wonderful and rewarding experience I could have wished for.  I have spent countless hours with families, children, and adults to help them during one of the most stressful times of their lives. I have spent time with Hemotology/Oncology, Cardiology, and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).  The staff have been amazing and supportive and I hope to call this home one day! 

Child Life Specialist -June 2021

A lot of hard work and dedication went into earning that title- and the feeling is surreal.  The sixteen weeks in my child life internship was tryly transformative for me. Supporting patients and families through some of the deepest pain and suffering, balanced by moments of great joy and celebration, is an honor and repsonsibility I will never take lightly.  This field is so rewarding in so many ways, and the love I feel for this place, it's child life team, and this work is immeasurable. Cincy, I'm happy to call you home. So grateful.

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