Young Topeka Woman Champions Self-Sufficiency and Community Aid

A Journey of Growth and Community Impact

From a quiet girl in Topeka to a passionate advocate for her community, Nachelle Culpepper has made a name for herself through dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and the power of community involvement.

Born and raised in Topeka, Nachelle attended Williams Elementary and Jardine Middle School before moving on to Topeka High School. While she had an early love for things like princesses, ballet, and gymnastics, she found her true calling in academics and extracurricular activities that allowed her to connect with others.

“I was always into princesses, and I decided I wanted to ballet and I did gymnastics for a little bit, but I didn’t really have anything other that I wanted to do as a sport or extra curricular. I was just academically focused, really and I was shy and quiet.”

Despite her initial shyness, Nachelle gradually became more involved in school activities. She joined cheerleading, orchestra, foreign language clubs, and student government. She also took part in initiatives like STU-GO, which focused on community service and environmental cleanups. These experiences helped her grow into a confident and engaged young woman.

“Being a part of those clubs like STU-GO, we would go out and leave and do cleanup and stuff like that and I really enjoyed it. I feel the need to make that difference in our community.”

After graduating from Topeka High in 2017, Nachelle received the David N. Wall scholarship, which provided her with a full ride to the University of Kansas (KU). The transition to college was challenging, especially without the close-knit group of friends she had in Topeka.

“Going to KU and not having the group of girls and the sisterhood that I had back then I was like…okay…I should join a sorority so I joined Cappa Delta and they really focused on confidence, sisterhood, and community service so I felt like it was perfect for me.”

During her time at KU, Nachelle also worked part-time at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Topeka, a role that later expanded to include work with a Lawrence-based agency. After graduating with a degree in Communication Studies, she joined Let’s Help, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families and seniors in need.

“When I first started, I was Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator. It was supposed to be more of a marketing aspect to promote our move, and kind of get the word out that we are needing people and donations and stuff like that.”

Over time, her role evolved to include managing food orders, coordinating volunteers, and overseeing community outreach efforts. She is particularly excited about the nonprofit’s new headquarters near 6th and MacVicar.

“I love our new building. Our old building was falling apart literally, and I think it was time to get out of there.”

While she misses the downtown location and the view of the Kansas River, Nachelle believes the new space allows Let’s Help to serve more families and seniors than ever before.

“We’re trying to promote self-sufficiency, and help them get out of their situation. We just want them to know that there’s somebody there for them, and that they’re not alone in this and whatever that they need…we will walk them through that.”

Mentors have played a significant role in Nachelle’s journey. She credits her mother for instilling values like hard work, perseverance, and the importance of education. At work, she also thanks her boss, Pat Yancy, for his unwavering support.

“I’m thrilled…honored…honestly, this is such a big award or honor, especially being so young!”

Let’s Help continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need, and Nachelle is proud to be part of its mission. She is eager to expand volunteer engagement and explore future collaborations that can further strengthen the community.

If you know a woman making a positive impact in northeast Kansas, consider nominating her for recognition. The stories of these inspiring individuals are shared every month on 27 News.