Shelly was born in Pensacola, Florida. After graduating from Florida State University, she worked for an HIV-AIDS non-profit organization in Tallahassee assisting individuals suffering from HIV – AIDS with obtaining medical treatment, healthcare insurance, mental and substance abuse counseling, and housing. Shelly is a member and serves as Secretary of the Volusia/Flagler County Coalition for the Homeless. Shelly also volunteers with and serves as Legal advisor to IDignity DeLand, a non-profit organization that assists low income and homeless individuals with obtaining identification or other required documentation at no cost. Shelly lives in Deltona and enjoys spending time with friends and family.