Shelby Marshall started as the Avon Parks Director in August 2022. She is a great fit for the role and initially accepted the position because the job, community and staff all aligned with her passions, career goals and the work-life balance she was striving for with four kids at home. As the Avon Parks Director, Shelby manages a team of seven and is responsible for overseeing the budget, plans for new park development and helping the maintenance and events staff.
Shelby’s first experience working for parks and recreation was as a summer intern with Brownsburg Parks that led to a full-time position. She then worked for the Danville Chamber of Commerce and worked closely with the Danville Parks Department. The opportunity to work as the Avon Parks Director seemed like a natural fit and she already has some big plans in mind! 
“My vision is to bring a balance of active and passive parks to the community as well as opportunities for sports and recreation,” said Shelby. “Avon’s growth over the past few years has brought many newcomers to the town and I want to create THE place families can enjoy, kids can laugh and play, and memories can be made. I want kids to grow up and share stories about how great their parks and trails were growing up. It is such a humbling experience to pave the way for that to take place and I can’t wait!”
As Shelby reflects on her favorite park memories, she recalls visiting Avon Town Hall Park during her first Summer Fun Run in 2014.
“That park and trail instantly had a piece of my heart,” she shared. “It is beautifully manicured and the perfect balance of green space, play space, and trails. Not to mention a jog around the lake on a gorgeous summer night…perfection!”
Some fun and exciting events at Avon Parks that will be taking place this year include the Farmers’ Market this summer, Night at the Park on July 1, concerts, Harvest Moon Festival and the Christmas Tree Lighting. Additionally, in the next few months, Shelby hopes to solidify construction phases for the undeveloped park properties at 100 S./Dan Jones, the property on 625 and 900 E.
Shelby acknowledges that these events and projects are made possible thanks to the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County. “It is important to support the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County (PFHOC) because they support all parks and trails in the county both financially and by providing resources. The PFOHC strives to help create outdoor experiences and is a voice for the parks departments and trails,” said Shelby. “If you love the parks and trails in your community, a great way to support them is to donate to the Parks Foundation.”
Shelby was born and raised in Danville. Her family are beef cattle and crop farmers. She lives on the farm with her soon-to-be-husband (June 2023), their four kids, two doodle dogs, sheep and cattle. In her free time, she loves cooking new recipes, organizing and checking things off her to-do list.
We feel so grateful to have Shelby in our park’s community, eager to make a lasting impact!