Shellie McKinney, Founder, MOMNetwork, LLC
Business owner, mentor, philanthropist, and JA alumna are just a few words that describe Shellie McKinney, a dedicated JA Volunteer who has lent her time and talents to youth across the region in myriad ways.
“I love giving back, but what makes it worthwhile is when I am able to see that my contributions, no matter how small, have a positive impact on an individual’s life,” she said.
Shellie’s work in the community began as a youth volunteer with organizations like the NAACP and Legal Aid, which turned into professional careers with nonprofits United Way and CARE.
Right before Shellie had her second child, she realized there was a need for Muslim mothers to connect on both a social and religious level, free of stereotypes or judgment. Thus, MOMNetwork, LLC was born — a network of mothers of Muslims that establishes programs and experiences to engage and empower mothers and their families. Shellie has served as the CEO and Chief Consultant for 18 years.
Shellie’s first experience with Junior Achievement was as a high school student participating in the JA Company Program. She recalls how much she enjoyed putting her entrepreneurial spirit to the test by thinking outside the box to develop business solutions with her teammates.
Years later when she was asked to volunteer at JA Finance Park with her son’s school, she jumped at the opportunity. “I always admired JA’s work from afar, and during my short time as a high school student,” she said.
Since then, JA of Greater Washington and MOMNetwork have cultivated a strong partnership. For the last two years, MOMNetwork hosted and mentored a team of high school students as part of the JA Company Program. Their team “Stickers Speak” received Third Place Overall at the 2020 JA Trade Show.
MOMNetwork’s 2018-19 JA Company Program team “Soul Sand” at the JA Company of the Year Competition
MOMNetwork’s 2019-2020 JA Company Program team "Stickers Speak” at the JA Trade Show
Shellie continues to be surprised and impressed by the students’ growth week after week.
“I watched members who were shy and didn't know anything about entrepreneurship flourish,” she said. “I couldn't have been more proud of what they had accomplished, while maintaining their grades and many extracurricular activities.”
Shellie’s most important piece of advice for JA students is to not sweat the small stuff, which is something she often has to remind herself.
“I feel there is a lot of pressure on our youth; they are expected to be all and do all,” she said. “I just want them to know that a lot of what they are worried about now will not define their true success.”
If you feel inspired by Shellie’s Volunteer Spotlight and would like to explore JA volunteer opportunities that may be right for you, please visit our Current Opportunities.