Lydia

Lydia DeBruin is a Master of Arts in Counseling student at Westminster Theological Seminary with a background in social work, ministry leadership, nonprofit care, and child-focused support. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a minor in Christian Ministries from Grove City College. 

While in college, Lydia interned at A House in Austin, a small nonprofit in Chicago serving families experiencing significant challenges and instability. There, she provided direct support to parents and children through case management, goal-setting conversations, case documentation, resource coordination, and practical and emotional care. She also assisted with parent and child support groups, participated in trauma-informed home

visits using evidence-based curriculum, and supported program operations. Through this work, Lydia gained meaningful experience walking alongside individuals and families with compassion, consistency, and attentiveness during difficult seasons of life.

Since graduating from college, Lydia has worked as an early childhood education teacher, a resident services coordinator at an affordable housing nonprofit, and a nanny. She currently serves as the Children’s Ministry Deacon at her local church, where she coordinates volunteers, supports families, manages communication and scheduling, and helps oversee children’s programming and events. Lydia enjoys working with children and

values creating spaces where they feel safe, known, and cared for. 

Somewhere in between work, ministry, school, and personal life, Lydia also co-founded and operates Selam Collective, a small business she recently started with her best friend to support direct trade partnerships with artisans in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Above all, Lydia finds deep joy in knowing God as her personal Savior and desires to serve Him and His people. She is grateful for the many opportunities she has to informally mentor and walk alongside young women in her community in a manner that demonstrates Christ’s love. She looks forward to continuing her education and growing in wisdom, humility, and gentle care as she learns more about walking alongside God’s people.