Our Founder
Shelley Tanner
Executive Director
Shelley is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in Health Promotion and Behavior, and of Emory University with a degree in nursing. She is a registered nurse and has worked in health education at Teen Matters in Clarke County. As an adoptive mom and friend to many foster parents, she has seen the need to serve not only the child, but the biological mother as well. Through work with ministries such as Kupendwa and the Mercy Health Center, Shelley’s passion for those in need of housing, support, and training has grown. She believes that helping the mother and providing pro-life support options at all stages of motherhood is the way to help future generations.
While not the most educated or experienced, her heart to obey the Lord and trust in His provision for His plans is what motivates her daily to pursue the call of opening this home.
Shelley and her husband, Russ, have four children and live in the Athens area. Russ is a mortgage lender with BOE Classic Lending Group and also a graduate of the University of Georgia, where he played football on two SEC championship teams. Their children Carleigh, Ret, Maddox, and Major are excited to be on this ministry journey with them.
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Our Staff
Kendria Johnson, LPC
Program Coordinator
Kendria Johnson combines her passion for housing, mental health, and family empowerment to support women and children on their journey toward stability and self-sufficiency. As a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than a decade of experience in behavioral health, supportive housing, and program leadership, Kendria is especially committed to walking alongside single mothers as they overcome barriers, build resilience, and create lasting change. Her work is grounded in the belief that safe housing, compassionate support, and hope can transform lives and strengthen families.
Wendy Scarborough
Administrative Support
With her experience of owning and operating her own businesses, Wendy Scarborough provides high-level administrative and organizational support to ensure daily operations run smoothly. Passionate about helping people, Wendy is dedicated to Hope 139, ensuring that the women and children that come through our doors receive the love and attention they need as they become the best they can be for themselves and their children. Wendy is married to Perry Scarborough and they have two adult children. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and enjoying the outdoors by hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Our Board
April Mashburn, President
Noah Huggins
Lindsey Bates
Lori Johnston
Jake Fromm
Melody Stiles
Not pictured: Jeremy Curtis and Thomas Settles
Photos: Ty Johnston