Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Pinomaki.
Shelly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My sister was killed by murderer during Christmas 2011, and witnessed the additional trauma inflicted upon her family from well-meaning friends, families – even professionals – because they had no idea what to say or do.
I became impassioned to help others who wanted to help those in emotional pain. I started on a journey to become qualified in crisis response. I have received trauma training, certifications and global chaplain certifications.
I serves as a chaplain with the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, specializing in crisis response. I support the Poway station ongoing as well as the communication/dispatch center.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The short answer is no. When wanting to serve people there are many ways and usually the doors are wide open. Not so for chaplains. Only 10-20% of all chaplains are female. This can be challenging. Then to de-mystify what a chaplain is can be a challenge. We are not a religious order or prescribe to a particular religion. Chaplains offer physical, emotional and then spiritual support; in that order.
Everyone thinks they can handle live, until it happens. Walking into peoples worst day means you have to be made of teflon. I have witnessed first hand, the horrors of mankind and pure accidents that changes the lives of everyone around.
Because I don’t have a Mdiv, bachelors or attended seminary I am often viewed as not qualified. The general public want to see letters behind your name. But to most, I am over-qualified to handle the real-wold application of trauma-crisis care. I am called on often when the worst happens. It is my privilege and honor to walk along side people on their worst day.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
For my paid job, I am a graphic designer. I have been working in freelance for over 30 years. I started in this field long before there were computers. I started training at 15 years old. It was a non-traditional style of education. Vocational training was a way to get into the work field much quicker. I moved out of my home at 17 and well on my way to a successful career. One that I still enjoy today.
However, I am looking forward to retiring soon and fully investing in my volunteer “job” as a chaplain.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I am a native to San Diego. Growing up in the east county. I grew up in Santee when it was still the dairy and somewhat rural. I’ve always been a bit of a cowgirl. But living in San Diego has the best of everything. We would ride horses in the morning to see the sunrise and then surf in the evenings to see the sunset. You have the deserts, mountains, meadows, rocks, and the beach. You never got board or always had something new to venture out into.
