Chalae’s Story: Author of A Beautiful Breaking

Chalae is a name that carries profound meaning, derived from “chalet,” symbolizing a shelter that extends beyond its walls. This reflects my lifelong quest for safety and security amidst turbulence, a journey that shaped the foundation of my being. My formative years were like a steep roof, stretching beyond the fragile walls of my family, leading me to seek solace in unexpected places.

Part 1: Tina, My Horse

Tina, my beloved horse, became a beacon of hope during my preteen years fraught with challenges at home. In the moments I spent with her, I discovered freedom and joy that contrasted sharply with my reality. The trust and comfort I felt with Tina were evident when I rode her barefoot and without a saddle. As the wind danced across my face, my fingers intertwined with her mane, and her scent enveloped me, grounding me amidst the chaos.  

As a teenager, I faced unimaginable trauma after being raped by my cousin—who I considered a brother. The aftermath of that traumatic experience pushed me toward promiscuity in a desperate search for love in unhealthy places, ultimately leading to an unintended pregnancy and a decision to have an abortion that left deep scars on my heart. Yet, through this pain, God planted the seed for Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch within me, and used Tina’s unwavering spirit that inspired me to believe in a better future.

Part 2: Game Face - College Basketball Memories

My time as a college basketball player was transformative. The exhilaration of competing as the underdog was unparalleled, especially when I shared the unforgettable moment with Amy as we cut down the net after defeating Denver University on their home court for the Colorado Athletic Conference Championship, solidifying my resilience.  We became lifelong friends, a testament to the power of supportive relationships forged through shared experiences.

Part 3: Shelter in the Hood

Post-graduation, I embarked on a mission trip to Detroit, Michigan, where I had the privilege of working with Alternatives for Girls and meeting my boss, Dr. Beverly Alexander. The broken-down homes mirrored the state of my heart, yet witnessing Beverly’s relationship with Jesus ignited a spark within me. Our 5 AM Sunday drives to church while praying and listening to her sing in the car, filled with the aroma of Southern cooking and sweet potato pies, became a sacred space. These gatherings showcased the healing power of vulnerability as women came together, sharing their lives around the dinner table.

Dr. Beverly Alexander is the author of You’re Enough: Embracing God’s Gifts in You and several other works. She is also a dynamic speaker and serves as the First Lady and Co-Pastor of New Light Family Christian Center, where she ministers alongside her husband, Dr. Eural Alexander. 

Part 4: Business Mindset in the Corporate World

My experiences in the corporate world—staffing, recruiting, and HR for companies like IBM and Anthem Blue Cross—honed my leadership skills. Managing over 100 contract employees at once equipped me with a business mindset that later became invaluable in my nonprofit endeavors.

Part 5: Marriage, Family, and Surviving Adversity

The journey of marriage and family brought its own set of challenges. Leaving our first marriage counseling session with our 8-month-old daughter, I felt a profound sense of peace.

Moments later, I found myself caught in the chaos of a high-speed chase, as a felon fled from police during a drug bust, when a 1500 Dodge Ram Truck, racing at 80 MPH, collided with me. This devastating incident required the jaws of life to rescue me, a flight for life helicopter transport, and resulted in multiple injuries- including a traumatic brain injury that diminished my attention span to just 15 seconds and necessitated relearning basic communication skills. To manage my pain, I took seven narcotics multiple times a day. Additionally, I faced daily panic attacks, experienced eight broken ribs and suffered from various internal injuries and broken bones. 

This experience profoundly tested my faith and resilience while highlighting the significance of God’s presence during life’s trials.  Yet, God knows us intimately and provides for us in our time of need. While I was in the hospital grappling with the symptoms of my traumatic brain injury and shock, He instilled in me a vivid image of His hand reaching down covering my trailblazer, protecting me from death and chaos. 

Part 6: Watching God Bring a Dream to Life

The vision for Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch began to take shape. This organization became a sanctuary for those in need, embodying the shelter I had longed for throughout my life. Sixteen years after God planted this dream in my heart, He guided me to a 5-acre property in Fort Lupton, Colorado. Standing before the property owner and a ‘For Sale’ sign with my realtor by my side, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. After facing discouragement from skyrocketing ranch prices and searching for land just minutes away, it was clear that God had a plan for Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch. 

Isaiah 61

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning , and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. 

Part 7: Living Through Domestic Violence

The road was not easy. I endured domestic violence in my marriage and then encountered a second high-speed chase involving a criminal who had stolen a car and was fleeing from the police, which re-aggravated my traumatic brain injury as I navigated the divorce proceedings. The struggles of navigating a no-contact order, enduring a trial, and grieving the loss of certain friends, family members, and my church family during that time weighed heavily on me. Yet, I witnessed God’s protection and provision through the kindness of others, helping me recover from another traumatic brain injury, and support in the courtroom.

Part 8: Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch Celebrating 10 Years!

Today, we celebrate 10 years of Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch! Our dedicated team has accomplished so much, and our vision for the future includes creating a shelter for women and children in need. Together, we strive to continue the legacy of hope and healing that began with a simple dream.