Jenelle Maloy
Jenelle Maloy, a native of Stockton, California, is communications director at The Well, a non-profit in midtown Stockton that promotes youth vocational training and mentorship. Her favorite quote is from Rocky Balboa: “Nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard ya hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That’s how winning is done.” Her choice is explained in our interview.
HLM: What do you love most about Stockton?
JM: I have lived here for 40 years. I enjoy the diversity and various cultures in the community. The Delta sunsets can be pretty spectacular too.
HLM: How is your heart inspired to serve the community?
JM: My heartbeat is for people to know their worth more than they’re told. The world is loud with negativity that affects confidence. I’ve been privileged to serve a variety of ages in a variety of capacities. From school programs, to summer camps, non-profits and most recently life coaching the Phase 1 graduates at the Gospel Center Rescue Mission, I strive to be an encouragement to anyone that needs hope for their future. I’m passionate about forward movement.
HLM: What sparks joy in your life?
JM: Grilling outside while my kids play together, hearing and seeing ocean waves break on the shore, laughter, mastering a new recipe, family get-togethers, and above all, my faith.
HLM: Top three goals on your bucket list?
JM: Seeing the Northern Lights, preferably in Iceland, but I wouldn’t be picky. Snorkeling in Belize. Finish writing my book series.
HLM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
JM: First is seeing positive character growth in my four kids. Second is going back to school in 2021 and getting my ACC from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). My kids were doing remote learning and I decided to join them. I enrolled in Western Seminary’s Coaching Program, and since I like a challenge, I continued on to get my advanced certificate and then accreditation with the ICF. The year was nutty but special to see how my family stepped up to support me.
HLM: What event has had the greatest impact on your life?
JM: When I was 25, I was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome. Due to reoccurring blood clots in my upper chest, I had my top two ribs removed. After that surgery, I had to adjust to some physical limitations. Not being able to do all the physical activities I’d done before made me frustrated. However, adapting to my new lifestyle has matured my character in many fruitful ways. I have learned to ask for help with completing certain tasks, and I’ve learned how to say “no” altogether.
HLM: What do you do outside work?
JM: I spend time walking while listening to music, experimenting new bakes, writing fictional stories, playing Kan Jam and trying to win Clue (I can’t guess the right room).
HLM: What are you reading today?
JM: A Gentleman in Moscow, by Amor Towles.
HLM: What’s your favorite food?
JM: Homemade guacamole and salsa with thin, salty tortilla chips. Carmelitas. Oats, chocolate and caramel all together equals scrumptiousness!
