About Us
Hearts for the Park
Hearts for the Park is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, preserving, and celebrating Shelby Forest State Park. Our mission is to raise awareness of the park’s natural beauty, rich history, and vital role in our community — while advocating for both current improvements and future projects that ensure its long-term sustainability.
Through initiatives focused on conservation, wildlife education, and bringing local history to life, we aim to engage the community, enhance the park experience for all visitors, and protect this cherished green space for generations to come.
Together, with the support of volunteers, donors, and park lovers like you, we’re building a stronger future for Shelby Forest — one rooted in stewardship, learning, and connection to the land.
Lend a Hand. Love the Forest.
Join the Hearts for the Park volunteer team and help make a lasting impact at Shelby Forest State Park. From special events and educational programs to conservation projects and park beautification, there’s a place for everyone to get involved. Whether you have a few hours or a full day, your time makes a difference!
Give us a call today to get started 901-591-5840.
Get Involved
Your passion makes a difference! There are many ways to support Shelby Forest State Park and help us protect this treasured space:
- Volunteer for events, conservation projects, and educational programs
- Donate to fund vital park improvements and wildlife preservation
- Attend community events like the Shelby Forest Spring Fest and Aquatseli Music Festival
- Spread the Word by sharing our mission with friends and family
Meet our staff
Jeremy Tincher - President
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
At Hearts for the Park, we strive to provide a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience for visitors of all ages. We are committed to preserving the natural beauty of the park and promoting environmental education.
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
Founded in 1972, Hearts for the Park has been a popular destination for nature enthusiasts for nearly 50 years. Originally established as a wildlife sanctuary, the park has since expanded to include hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas.
Pam Medkiff - Treasurer
Ben Wolfe - Executive Director
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Visitors to Hearts for the Park can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a visitor center, gift shop, and playground. The park also offers guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, and other educational programs throughout the year.
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Lori Knight is a multi-passionate creative and entrepreneur who brings strategy, heart, and hustle to everything she does. She serves as Board Secretary for Hearts For the Park, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park—a place that’s feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s where the noise fades, the pace slows, a
Lori Knight is a multi-passionate creative and entrepreneur who brings strategy, heart, and hustle to everything she does. She serves as Board Secretary for Hearts For the Park, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park—a place that’s feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s where the noise fades, the pace slows, and you remember what really matters.
Professionally, Lori wears several hats. She’s the founder of Two Straws, a mobile mixology company delivering upscale, alcohol-free experiences for events. She’s also a part-time makeup artist for special occasions, and is proudly contracted with Donna Groff Agency.
Most recently, Lori joined Comcast as an Advertising Account Executive – Market Retail, helping businesses tell their story through smarter, high-impact media strategy. Her commitment to creativity, community, and connection makes her a powerful advocate; both for the brands she serves and the park she loves.
welcome your support.
Stuart Breakstone -
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Stuart Breakstone -
Volunteers play a vital role in helping us maintain and improve Hearts for the Park. Whether you're interested in trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, or leading educational programs, we welcome your support.
Melissa Fernandez -
Lorie Knight - Board Secretary
Stuart Breakstone -
I am deeply committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement, and I’m honored to support Hearts for the Park, a nonprofit devoted to enriching and protecting Meeman–Shelby Forest State Park. As a youth, I spent almost every weekend wandering these trails with friends—it was a staple in my activities and a place where lifelo
I am deeply committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement, and I’m honored to support Hearts for the Park, a nonprofit devoted to enriching and protecting Meeman–Shelby Forest State Park. As a youth, I spent almost every weekend wandering these trails with friends—it was a staple in my activities and a place where lifelong memories were made.
For me, this involvement is more than giving time or donating—it’s nurturing a place that shaped who I am. I believe in the power of volunteerism—from trail maintenance, wildlife programs, and educational outreach to community events—all aimed at fostering a deeper connection between people and the park’s lush bottomland hardwood forests, lakes, scenic Mississippi River bluffs, and expansive hiking routes.
Being involved with Hearts for the Park lets me contribute directly to preserving this special Tennessee treasure so that future generations can explore, learn from, and cherish it just as I did growing up.