We believe everyone deserves the basic dignity of having a quality pair of shoes that fit.
Through our personal, pop-up shopping experiences, we make gently used, high-quality shoes available to those in need—partnering with local soup kitchens, outreach programs, and community organizations.
We also support local high school and middle school running programs by providing properly fitted athletic shoes to help every student step forward with confidence.
THE NEED
1 in 4
Richmond residents live in poverty
3,000
People in the city of Richmond are served by homeless agencies; shelters, outreach and housing programs
577
Men, women and children experience homelessness daily in RVA
Two
Socks and shoes are the two most requested items among those living in need
Our Team
Robin Telfian
Robin is our fearless leader — the heart that beats for Shood around the clock. Her passion, energy, and genuine excitement for serving others shine through in every conversation she has. With her side of ADHD, she juggles multiple tasks, keeping Shood moving forward with joy and momentum.
kelly pasternAk
We call Kelly the “Shoe Hustler” — and for good reason. Kelly manages our entire outreach program, partnering with more than 50 outreach organizations annually to get shoes exactly where they’re needed most. On average, Kelly distributes an incredible 6,000 pairs of shoes every year, ensuring we reach our communities one pair at a time.
maria Galbraith
Maria is a running shoe expert with a heart for young athletes. As the parent of four collegiate runners, she knows firsthand the difference the right shoes can make — and the joy of instilling a love of running early.
Maria oversees our Shooding Stars program, providing new running shoes and track spikes to middle and high school running programs, helping young athletes chase their dreams one step at a time.
SARA SITKIEWICZ
There is nothing Sara can’t do. Smart, steady, and endlessly resourceful, she’s the calm problem-solver who always finds a way to pull Shood out of any pinch. That’s why we lovingly call her “Miss Fix It.”
From finding Shood a new home, to troubleshooting hot water heaters, to driving the Shood van in Christmas parades — Sara can truly do it all.
Carla Mathews
As a retired middle school teacher, Carla’s superpower is keeping our team in line — with grace, humor, and just the right amount of structure. She loves organization and order, and it shows in everything she touches.
With thousands of shoes and Bombas socks funneling through Shood each year, Carla is the one who brings calm to the chaos. Shood simply wouldn’t operate efficiently without her..
suzanne sprouse
Suzanne is the queen of merch — the creative genius who can put our logo on just about anything. From backpacks to Shoodleys, she keeps every piece of Shood gear on-brand, beautiful, and full of heart.
Her eye for detail and love for all things Shood ensure that our mission isn’t just felt — it’s seen.
Shood is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit, and it truly takes a village.
We couldn’t do what we do without the dedicated Shood Crew who show up, step in, and serve with heart. Together, this team makes every pair of shoes — and every act of kindness — possible.
Our Partners
Be a part of something good
Get in touch with Shood today to learn how you can help advance our mission of providing gently used running shoes to those who need them.