Shala Edwards has set out to eliminate poverty for families of girls who attend Title I schools in Indian River County as the Founder of Treasure Coast Girls Coalition.
Dedicated to honoring the memory of her grandparents’ Robert and Ola Mae Smith, the Gifford native is drawing from her diverse life experience and continuing education to provide equal opportunities in STEM for girls and young women ages 9-18.
Prior to founding TCGC, Edwards has held Florida leadership and development roles at Crossover Mission, Vero Beach, and Gulfstream Goodwill, Palm Beach. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Organizational Management from Indian River State College and is currently pursuing an MBA at Lynn University. A certified Trauma and Resilience Practitioner, CTRP, her community involvement includes membership in the National Association of Fundraising Professionals, AFP/Treasure Coast Chapter, and the American Association of University Women (AAUW.) In her spare time, she enjoys serving her community through volunteering, advocacy, improving social disadvantage, and increasing economic security.