A “threshold” marks a crossing point—a moment of transition, awakening, and possibility. That’s what we’re creating here: a home base for those doing the heavy lifting in their communities and careers. A space to exhale, be poured back into, and grow in good company.
Our Vision
A future where Black healers, helpers, and visionaries are deeply supported, culturally affirmed, and empowered to sustain their work and their own well-being.
Threshold Social is a wellness and social club created by and for the Black community—a space for collective healing, cultural connection, and growth.
Founded by Chiara Shelton, LCSW and Richmond native, Threshold was born from a vision: to build a safe, celebratory space where Black professionals, practitioners, creatives, and changemakers can rest, be seen, and belong—without code-switching or pretense.
At Threshold, we offer immersive, culturally grounded experiences that nourish the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you’re a therapist, artist, educator, entrepreneur, or healer, your wellness matters here.
We are a nonprofit reimagining what community care can look and feel like—intentional, joyful, and rooted in belonging.
Meet the Founder
Chiara Shelton, LCSW is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Threshold Social, a community-rooted wellness organization grounded in Black culture, care, and collective healing. Based in Richmond, Virginia, Chiara leads the organization’s vision, strategy, and infrastructure, ensuring Threshold Social operates with integrity, sustainability, and deep alignment with its values of cultural responsiveness, accessibility, and holistic wellness.
With over eight years of experience across behavioral health and leadership, Chiara brings a trauma-informed, culturally affirming approach to building systems that support community healing. Her work centers Black professionals, creatives, and healers, with a focus on cultivating partnerships, securing funding, guiding governance, and strengthening the organizational foundation that allows healing spaces to thrive.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and mental health advocate, Chiara is committed to creating sanctuary spaces for those who hold others—advancing reflection, transformation, and collective liberation within the communities Threshold Social serves.
Credentials & Background:
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Richmond, VA Native
8+ Years in Mental Health & Community Wellness
Advocate for Black Mental Health & Cultural Wellness
Our Values
We cultivate spaces where joy is an act of resistance and restoration.
Joy
We celebrate the richness and wisdom of the Black diaspora.
Culture
We foster meaningful relationships that affirm our shared humanity.
Connection
We believe in rising together through shared knowledge, resources, and support.
Collective growth
We create environments that support trauma-informed and culturally relevant healing.
Healing
We ensure all voices are heard and access is prioritized.