A pillar of support in the Illinois Valley

Aaron brings a strong background in organizational development, with an eye for both the big picture and the practical steps needed to turn ideas into reality. Through his experience building a growing business and volunteering in the community, he developed a strong interest in helping people and organizations grow and realize their potential. That interest now shapes much of his work at IVFC, from developing a strong and effective team to building programs and partnerships that strengthen the broader community.

Outside of work, Aaron is an avid gardener and enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors with his family, and tending to the forest on his family’s property in the Illinois Valley.

Shelby serves as IVFC’s Program Director, helping lead the organization’s programs, partnerships, and connecting local residents with the resources they need. She loves connecting people with resources, bringing organizations together, and finding creative ways to help Illinois Valley individuals and families meet their basic needs and build greater stability.

When she’s not at IVFC, Shelby enjoys photography, water polo, scuba diving, and pretty much anything that gets her outside. She spends much of her free time exploring the outdoors with her partner and four dogs and enjoying everything the beautiful Illinois Valley has to offer.

Jenny helps keep IVFC’s day-to-day operations running smoothly as Office Administrator. She supports staff, volunteers, administrative systems, and the many moving pieces behind IVFC’s programs. Jenny brings organization, flexibility, and a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone who comes through IVFC’s doors.

Devin supports IVFC’s housing and community assistance programs, helping people navigate resources and overcome barriers to stability. Her work includes connecting community members with housing-related supports and assisting with IVFC’s broader programs and services, with a focus on making complicated systems easier for people to navigate.

Outside of work, Devin enjoys caring for her ever-growing collection of indoor plants and exploring the Illinois Valley in search of interesting rocks and unique finds. She has a particular appreciation for the Valley’s diverse geology and all there is to discover here.

Christina is often one of the first people community members meet when they come to IVFC. As Front Desk & Resource Navigator, she helps welcome visitors, understand what they need, and connect them with IVFC programs and other community resources. She helps make the Resource Center approachable, organized, and easy to navigate. She is grateful for the opportunity to be a helping hand and a friendly face for people in her community, especially during times when finding the right resources can feel overwhelming.

Outside of work, Christina loves spending time with her family, enjoys the outdoors, and getting lost in a good book.

Karen serves as a Program Assistant at IVFC, supporting the day-to-day work of our programs and helping community members access services and resources. She assists staff across a variety of projects and helps keep IVFC’s growing programs organized, responsive, and welcoming to the people we serve.

John helps care for IVFC’s Resource Center and keeps the building safe, clean, and welcoming for the many community members, staff, volunteers, and partner organizations who use it each week. His behind-the-scenes work is an important part of keeping IVFC’s busy community space functioning well.

Edgar helps maintain and care for IVFC’s Resource Center, supporting the day-to-day work needed to keep the building clean, functional, and welcoming. His work helps ensure that IVFC and the organizations sharing the Resource Center have a space where they can reliably serve the community.

When he’s not working, Edgar enjoys being outdoors, riding bikes and motorcycles, and trying specialty foods.