Michelle Perez| Family Care Program Lead
Tell us a little about your background
My name is Michelle, I am 25 years old. I’m married to my husband, Nathan, who’s from Homestead, Florida. We have one daughter and I am pregnant with another girl. We have two dogs, Bella, a black lab, and Scrappy, a brown mini dachshund. I’m originally from Ceres, California and moved to Virginia in 2019 when I signed a contract with the Navy. I’m no longer active duty, as I now stay at home and work part-time at Kidtique. I also help with childcare at Grace Bible church, where I have been a member since 2021 and now at Wild Oak, where I have been helping out with The Village since 2025!
What led you to this area of work?
I’ve always found myself drawn to helping with kids ministry. Ever since I was in high school I helped in the church with kids ministry. God has always set that passion in me. I was told this phrase one time and it come to mind every so often - “The easiest way to get adults to come to Christ is through the life of the children.”
Why did you choose to join the Wild Oak Haven team?
Wild Oak Haven focuses on the families and brings Jesus into the conversation. Wild Oak Haven helps those who need discipling in this world. The organization focuses on spreading God’s word outside of Sunday church and I’m excited to be part of that change, to lead towards Jesus outside of church.
What are you most excited about in your new role, and what perspective or value are you hoping to bring?
I’m looking forward to bringing young adults to Jesus. I want to let them know that God loves them for who they are and that Jesus died for us. I also want to grow in my own faith as well. Just because we are Christian already doesn’t mean God has stopped using us for change in the world and in our own lives.
What are a few things you enjoy outside of work?
Hobbies, though one as a mom to a toddler and pregnant, I love exploring new coffee shops, especially play cafes! I love the beach, parks, Busch Gardens, and aquarium trips.
Do you have a favorite quote, motto, or life philosophy?
Two of my favorite quotes I’ve heard within the last year from two different sermons. 1) Salvation is free, growth in Christ is a choice 2) Just because we are Christian doesn’t make us sinless, because we are Christian we should sin less.