2025 Evening of Hope Honoree – Myra R. Elliott Trustee Award
Each year, Center for Hope & Safety recognizes a member of the Board of Trustees with the Myra R. Elliott Award. This year, the award is presented to former trustee Shelby Klein.
Shelby’s 11 years of service certainly reflect her dedication and commitment to our mission, but it is her insight, expertise and leadership during a period of tremendous change for the agency that is worthy of honorable mention.
Shelby was invited to join the Board of Trustees in November of 2013. Board Member Denise Spell was her mentor, and Shelby credits Denise with making her feel welcome and comfortable, and encouraging her to engage and contribute. Shelby would make a point of doing the same for other new trustees over the years.
She completed three 3-year terms and two additional 1-year terms. A key member of the Board’s leadership team, she served two terms as Secretary; was Vice President from 2020 to 2022; President from 2022 to 2024; and Immediate Past President from February 2024 to February 2025. In addition, her extensive experience in the nonprofit sector brought a valuable perspective to her roles as a member of numerous committees, including Buildings & Grounds, which she also chaired; Strategic Planning; Membership & Bylaws; Finance; and most recently, Governance.
Her understanding of all things nonprofit—from structure to budgets to grants—was vital during a uniquely pivotal period as Center for Hope & Safety transitioned to new leadership and the organizational change that followed. As Board Vice President and President, Shelby calmly, thoughtfully, and confidently helped guide us in defining and implementing sound policies and practices as we evolved from a grassroots organization to the comprehensive social services agency we are today. She understood that the timing was right for the organization to grow and was unwavering in her support.
Shelby also helped the Board navigate its own shift from being involved in day-to-day operations to focusing on governance and strategic vision. She was a leader at the table when discussing board responsibilities and structure, and it is fitting that she spearheaded a revision of the agency’s bylaws and the reorganization of our committee structure during her presidency.
While fulfilling this sizeable commitment to Center for Hope & Safety, Shelby navigated her own successful career and raised two sons.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Shelby for her unwavering dedication, leadership and guidance throughout her board service,” said Chief Executive Officer Julye Myner. “Her invaluable contributions and steadfast commitment will leave a lasting legacy.”
It is for all of these reasons and more that we present Shelby Klein with the 2025 Myra R. Elliott Trustee Award in honor of her wisdom, generosity, and heartfelt commitment to improving the lives of survivors of domestic violence and their families.