Consultation with Christie Welch

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At VelHir, our consulting services are rooted in lived experience, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to social impact. Led by Christie Welch, founder of VelHir Collective, we provide guidance at the intersections of wellness, sustainability, and equitable business development.

• Master of Science in Non-Governmental Organization Management – Johns Hopkins University
  Specialized in nonprofit leadership, strategy, and sustainable business models.
• Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude – Pan-African Studies & Humanities – University of Louisville
  Minors in Philosophy and Religious Studies, grounding in cultural analysis, ethics, and community history.
• Certificates
  • Kosair for Kids Leadership Development Institute (2023)
  • Data Analytics with Power BI (2024)
  • Chair Yoga Teacher Training, 30 CE Hours (2025)

• Founder, VelHir Collective – A mission-driven ecosystem of businesses (Pressed & Unstressed Laundry, Gene Isis Farms, The Black Beatnik Yoga) designed to create healing-centered enterprises that merge economic justice with community care.
• Founder, Pressed & Unstressed Laundry – A social enterprise employing Black women impacted by domestic violence, providing laundry and cleaning services that restore dignity and stability.
• Founder, Gene Isis Farms – An urban farm in Louisville focused on sustainable agriculture, microgreens, herbs, and community healing through land reclamation and nature-based therapy.
• Founder, The Black Beatnik Yoga – A wellness brand offering yoga classes, lifestyle products, and community-centered healing practices.
• Deputy Director, Christopher 2X Game Changers (since 2021) – Helped launch the Future Healers Internship in partnership with UofL Health, employing Black and Brown youth impacted by violence, and co-developed nature-based learning programs like Planet Savers and Sprouts.
• Board Chair, Sacred Earth Community Garden – Supporting youth employment, nature-based therapy, and intergenerational healing through agriculture, alongside Executive Director Velvet Welch.

Christie brings a unique blend of academic insight, nonprofit leadership, and entrepreneurial practice. Areas of expertise include:

• Nonprofit Administration & Social Enterprise Development
• Equitable Business Models & Community Wealth-Building
• Urban Agriculture & Sustainable Food Systems
• Wellness Programming & Nature-Based Therapy
• Brand Development & Multi-Venture Strategy

Christie’s approach combines strategy with compassion, informed by her own journey of resilience and by a vision for generational wealth and healing in marginalized communities. Whether you are a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, or community builder, you will gain tailored insights, practical strategies, and a values-driven roadmap for your work.