Michelle Shelburne

Founder and Executive Director

Our Founder’s Story

In early 2020, while doing outreach at a homeless encampment on a cold and clammy February day, Michelle briefly met Tina, a very nice older woman sitting by a campfire.

This senior had been living outside in the elements for over four years, struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. As they parted, Tina affectionately stated “It was nice to meet you, Michelle.”

A week later, Tina had passed away.

Michelle couldn’t grasp how we as Hoosiers could continually allow elders and other vulnerable people to live and die outside and alone.

It left a deep mark on her heart, as she cried for someone she had only spent a few precious moments with.

This is where the fire was lit to fill the gap, through Sanctuary Indy.