Our Founder

Celestina Ambrose is the founder of Hearts on Standby, an initiative created to strengthen, uplift, and stand ready for Military families. As a proud Air Force spouse and mother of three, she understands the unique weight military families carry—the long nights, the frequent moves, the uncertainty, and the quiet resilience that holds the homefront together.

Hearts on Standby was born from Celestina’s lived experience. During her time serving as a Key Support Liaison for the 45th Security Forces Squadron, she witnessed firsthand how many families struggle not because of a lack of resources, but because they lack connection, advocacy, and a community that sees them. She saw the need for something more—a place where families could feel supported, encouraged, and truly cared for.

Her personal journey deepened this calling. After navigating a year of medical uncertainties and multiple relocations, Celestina’s oldest daughter, Milah, was diagnosed with ASD Level 1 at age four. Walking through evaluations, therapy, and advocacy—while juggling the demands of military life—revealed how easily families can feel alone and overwhelmed. That experience became the heartbeat of Hearts on Standby:
to bridge the gap between available resources and the families who need them most.

Today, Hearts on Standby empowers families through consistent encouragement, practical services, meaningful events, and a network of care that honors the commitment of every service member and the resilience of every spouse, child, and caregiver. Celestina’s leadership is defined by creating a ready, united, and thriving community—one family, one moment, one heartbeat at a time.

Beyond her advocacy work, Celestina also runs C’s Magical Moments, where she hand-paints celebration banners that bring joy to life’s milestones. It reflects her belief that even in the midst of hardship or uncertainty, there is always room to celebrate family, community, and connection.

With compassion, purpose, and unwavering dedication, Celestina leads Hearts on Standby as both a spouse and an advocate—ensuring that no military family ever feels alone, unseen, or unsupported, on or off duty.