Shayna Miles is co-founder of The Levi Miles Foundation. She had the pleasure of being Levi’s mom and starting a non-profit organization in his name. Levi was the definition of resilience and showed everyone he encountered unconditional love. Shayna continues to Love Like Levi alongside her loving husband, David Miles. She lives with her stepdaughter McKennon Grace Miles and beagle dog Maclyn Rae Miles.
Shayna always said Levi was a little angel, so she takes comfort in the fact that Levi lives in the Kingdom of Heaven and watches over her every day. She now applies her diverse leadership experiences and wealth of knowledge into the organization to advance missions and support through advocacy. She builds on children’s strengths and provides them with the necessary strategies, supports, and skills to become successful, confident, and independent individuals. She is most proud to work directly with students and families where she can make the biggest impact.
David Miles, the father of Levi Michael Miles and McKennon Grace Miles, was born and raised in Paris, TN. David met his amazing and gorgeous wife, Shayna Miles, in 2017. After surrendering his life to Christ, David gained a heart of a servant, feeling the calling to care and provide for those he met. Levi, however, taught him even more: to persevere through everything in life by always trusting in Jesus and by providing a living example of unconditional love.
David’s life will never be the same after experiencing his short time with Levi, but he strives to make it possible for others to experience Levi’s love through The Levi Miles Foundation. David and Shayna’s motto has always been, “It’s always an adventure.” Together, they strive to provide the support and resources to other children and their families so that they can experience the pure joys of their own adventure. It is an honor for him to be called Levi’s dad and co-founder of The Levi Miles Foundation.
Debbie Wichlan Jelks was born in St. Louis, Missouri and raised in Paris, Tennessee. She is married to an incredibly supportive husband, Bill Jelks, of thirty-five years. They have five grown children: Will (Caitlin) Jelks, Andrew Jelks, and Ben (Madison) Jelks. She attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville for her undergraduate work and received her bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy in Memphis at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. In 2000, She returned to the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and received an Advanced Master’s degree in Pediatric and Adult neurological disorders. In 2007, she became a Pediatric Certified Specialist.
She is currently the Director of Rehab Services at HCMC and works with children in the clinic and educational environment. She became a physical therapist so she could work with children. She feels it is the greatest honor and privilege given to a therapist when a parent trusts themenough to work with their child. Levi’s short life had an everlasting impact on everyone he met, and she hopes to have the same impact for families served by the Foundation.
Robin Walker, a native Parisian, passions lie in supporting the families and children of Henry County. Her deep connection to Paris’s philanthropic community has fueled her commitment to The Levi Miles Foundation. Currently, Robin holds the role of Head of Operations at an international nonprofit focused on human rights work in the Middle East, reflecting her determination to make a positive impact on a global scale.
As a wheelchair user, Robin understands the importance of inclusivity and accessibility. Her goal as a Board of Director is to continue TLMF’s great work in breaking down barriers and ensuring that the children are served with equal opportunities to thrive. Beyond her involvement with the Foundation, Robin enjoys life with her partner, Byron, and their four big dogs – Sonny, Kat, Stringer, and Denzel. When in Paris, one may spot them on a daily stroll. With her diverse experiences and love for the community, Robin continues to make a positive impact alongside the dedicated Board, volunteers, and families of The Levi Miles Foundation.
Michael Sargent, a Jackson, Tennessee native, moved to Paris in January 2019 and is a local State Farm agent with a deep commitment to serving this community. His niece’s journey with Down Syndrome has always inspired him to engage with initiating additional needs for those with disabilities and/or rare diseases. Michael’s heart resonates with The Levi Miles Foundation’s mission, driven by his dedication to creating a world that embraces inclusivity and celebrates everyone just as they were created.
Beyond his professional role, Michael shares his enthusiasm for positive change with his wife, Sarah, and two daughters, Ella and Eva, finding joy in traveling as they broaden their perspectives and deepen their connection to the global community. His hobbies include grilling for family and friends, playing golf, and lending a hand to local community groups. Michael’s humorous personality and trademark dad jokes bring smiles and brightens the lives of those around him.
Michelle Morris Harrison was born in Henry County and raised in Puryear, Tennessee. She has four incredible children: Jackson, Alexis, Phoebe, and Parker. She attended the University of Memphis and The University of Tennessee at Martin for her undergraduate work and received her Doctorate of Optometry from Southern College of Optometry in 1995. She returned to Paris, TN in 1998 and has practiced at Harrison Eye Clinic and Camden Eyecare Associates since that time.
Besides working locally, Michelle has also worked with children abroad in assisting with their eye care in countries such as Costa Rica and Belize. She is blessed to work with the wonderful people in her community as an optometrist and involved community member. Michelle is honored to advocate for all children touched by the Foundation. Her heart is tied to The Levi Miles Foundation as she shares the same vision for a more inclusive world by reaching current and future generations.
Please complete this form if you are interested in volunteer opportunities with The Levi Miles Foundation.
230-B Tyson Ave #197 Paris, TN 38242
