Shelly Snider
"Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place." Kurt Vonnegut
June is #PRIDE Month, a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and the impacts that they have had on the world. PRIDE stands for professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence, and our first Friday Feature this month perfectly embodies those traits.
Shelly Snider is the executive director of Indy Pride, Inc. Shelly believes the feeling of pride should come from having the courage to be yourself authentically, no matter your surroundings. The Indy Pride mission is to unite and serve members of the LGBTQ+ community of central Indiana through leadership development and educational support programs. Indy Pride serves through hosting community events that achieve inclusivity, equality, strong community connections, and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.
Since dedicating her time as a volunteer 15 years ago, Shelly has loved working with Indy Pride. When the role of executive director became available, she knew that her love for supporting the community through volunteerism, planning and connecting people with resources made her a perfect fit.
When we asked Shelly what she feels is moving the organization forward, she stated, "I believe the community moves the Indy Pride mission. Our volunteers, board of directors and the many community members who dedicate their time and money to support the mission are the backbone of our organization."
Indy Pride Festival is returning June 11 with a mission to provide a space welcoming of all individuals where they can celebrate their true selves. "Many people in the LGBTQ+ community find difficulty in being their true selves,” Shelly explained. “I want members to know that it's okay to be LGBTQ+. There is a community in Indiana that will embrace and support you."
Shelly is committed to the community and creating inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ members through civic engagement, fundraising and providing safe spaces for sharing fears and opposition. When she isn't working as Indy Pride's only full-time employee, you can find her spending time with her wife and son or playing the flute for the Pride of Indy concert and marching band. You can learn more about Shelly and Indy Pride by visiting the website (www.indypride.org) and by following them on IG (indypride), LinkedIn (Indy Pride, Inc.), and FB (Indy Pride)