About Earthly Angels
About Us
Rooted in service.
Driven by compassion.
Our Story
Founded by a veteran. Built for those who need hope.
Earthly Angels is a veteran-owned nonprofit organization founded by Shirl Jefferson — a combat veteran and 100% disabled veteran — out of a deep, personal passion for loving God's people and serving those who feel life has beaten them down.
Having experienced firsthand the challenges that veterans face after service, Shirl recognized that too many people — veterans and single parents alike — were navigating their hardest moments without a safety net, without hope, and without someone in their corner.
Earthly Angels was created to change that. To be a beacon of light. To walk alongside people in their darkest seasons and give them a genuine sense of hope for better days. Shirl leads a team that shares her passion — dedicated individuals who believe that every person deserves dignity, compassion, and a real chance to thrive.
"We are here to be a beacon of light to those who feel life has beaten them down — and give them hope for better days."
Our Mission
To be a beacon of light to those who feel life has beaten them down — connecting veterans and single parents to the services, resources, and community support they need to find hope, stability, and lasting well-being.
Our Vision
A future where no veteran or family is left behind — and where every individual is empowered to thrive.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do.
Compassion
We meet every person where they are — without judgment, without barriers. Dignity is not earned here; it is given freely.
Integrity
We are transparent stewards of the trust placed in us by our clients, donors, and community partners.
Community
We believe lasting change happens through relationships — not transactions. We build community, not just caseloads.
Excellence
Those we serve deserve our very best. We hold ourselves to the highest standard in every program we deliver.
Meet Our Team
United by a shared passion for God's people.
Shirl Jefferson leads a team that shares her heart — dedicated individuals who believe every person deserves dignity, compassion, and a real chance at hope.
Shirl Jefferson
Executive Director & Founder
A combat veteran and 100% disabled veteran, Shirl founded Earthly Angels out of a deep passion for loving God's people. Her firsthand experience with the challenges veterans face drives her unwavering commitment to serving those who feel life has beaten them down.
Angela Russell-Marshall
Vice Chair
Angela brings a servant's heart and a passion for community to her role as Vice Chair. She shares Shirl's vision of being a beacon of light and hope to veterans and families who need it most.
Retha Bradshaw
Treasurer
Retha serves as Treasurer for Earthly Angels, bringing financial stewardship and a deep commitment to ensuring every dollar goes toward making a real difference in the lives of veterans and families.
Jameka Russell
Secretary
Jameka serves as Secretary for Earthly Angels, keeping the organization running smoothly with dedication and a genuine heart for the mission of bringing hope and light to those who need it most.
Ready to make a difference?
Whether you need help or want to give it — there's a place for you at Earthly Angels.