Board Chairwoman, Acting Board Treasurer

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Shelbi Poole, a Berea native, is the board chair and founder of UP Initiative of Madison County, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the unhoused and underhoused communities in Berea, Kentucky. With a deep commitment to addressing homelessness year-round, Shelbi's vision for UP Initiative began with a dream to provide food and essential services to those experiencing homelessness, beyond the seasonal emergency shelter programs that existed in the area. In 2023, Shelbi's dream became a reality when she founded UP Initiative, and in October of that year, the organization opened its doors for the first time.

Under Shelbi's leadership, UP Initiative of Madison County has seen remarkable growth. By October 2024, the organization expanded significantly with the purchase of a new facility, enabling it to broaden the scope of services offered to the community. Shelbi is continually inspired by the outpouring of support from volunteers, community members, and local partners, all of whom contribute to the organization's mission.

Shelbi's educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master's degree in Teaching: Special Education with an emphasis on Moderate to Severe Disabilities from Georgetown College. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership through the University of the Cumberlands, further honing her skills in nonprofit leadership and community development.

Shelbi’s work with the unhoused population in Berea began in 2020, when she first volunteered and later served on the board of a local nonprofit that provided seasonal emergency shelter. Her dedication to making a long-term impact on homelessness and her relentless drive to create meaningful change have made her a respected leader in the region. Shelbi’s work continues to inspire others, and she remains in awe of the collective support that drives the success of UP Initiative.

Board Vice-Chair

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Mary Katherine Stinson, a Berea native, is a dedicated leader with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Her career has been defined by a commitment to empowering at-risk communities, with impactful work in Indianapolis, East St. Louis (IL), New Orleans, Atlanta, and Brooklyn (NY).

Stinson is the founder and former Vice President of Room in the Inn-Berea, an organization addressing homelessness and fostering community support in her hometown. Her leadership has left a lasting legacy, helping vulnerable populations access essential resources and services.

A cum laude graduate of Butler University, Stinson’s strong academic background laid the foundation for her dedication to social change. She furthered her studies by earning a Master of Divinity from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, equipping her with a deep understanding of ethics, theology, and community care.

In addition to her extensive nonprofit work, Stinson currently serves as a writer and editor for a financial publication, applying her expertise to communicate complex financial topics clearly and effectively.

Her unique combination of nonprofit leadership, academic achievement, and editorial acumen makes her an invaluable asset as Vice-Chairwoman, where she continues to champion innovative solutions for community well-being.

Board Member

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Stephen Poole brings over 25 years of expertise in telecommunications, network management, and facilities oversight to his role as a valued board member. With extensive experience in managing complex systems, he plays a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of organizational infrastructure.

A resident of Berea for more than two decades, Stephen has deep roots in the community. His journey toward supporting vulnerable populations began over a year ago when he was introduced to the unhoused and underhoused community. This experience inspired him to foster meaningful relationships and connections that promote improved quality of life for individuals in need.

Currently pursuing a higher education degree, Stephen is committed to furthering his knowledge and enhancing his ability to serve vulnerable communities effectively. His dedication to continuous learning underscores his passion for making a lasting impact.

Outside of his professional and community work, Stephen is a lover of live music. He often shares this passion with neighbors, using it as a way to connect with people from all walks of life and build a sense of unity within the community.

Stephen’s combination of technical expertise, compassion, and community engagement makes him an invaluable member of the board, as he works to create a more inclusive and connected Berea.