OUR VISION
The Shine Community envisions people with all abilities to thrive, flourish and celebrate wholeness and abundant life through Christian love and authentic relationships. Our desire is to see the fullness of our identity, purpose and dignity restored through the hope of the Gospel and holistic programs in a loving community.

OUR STORY
Mary grew up in Seoul, Korea, seeing her dad (a pastor) and his missionary friends bringing hope and much needed help in her neighborhood. After working 15 years in corporate America, she joined an NGO to serve the vulnerable population overseas. She has 12 years of experience in social enterprises and social programs and is a certified mental health coach and life coach. She believes everyone has a special purpose and unique gift that can be used to serve and build up one another and belong in the community.
Wallace’s mom was a missionary to Japan as a young lady right out of Bible College in the 1950’s. His father was also a man of faith who had an extraordinary gift of service. With rich spiritual inheritance and his experience as a chiropractor of 26 years, he believes in achieving wellness of physical, mental, spiritual and emotional health through holistic offerings and social interactions in a safe community.
Mary and Wallace got married at the age of 46 (a miracle story!) and received a special calling to serve the disability community in a loving, inclusive community. As an uncle to a nephew with Asperger’s Syndrome, Wallace knew first-hand the challenges that people with disabilities face with work, health and social needs. After researching and visiting many disability services, we fell in love with the BEE Community in College Station, TX. During our visit with the artisans, volunteers and staff at the BEE COMMUNITY, we got a glimpse of the fullness of God’s love and joy and the beauty and dignity being restored in a community. We were not meant to be alone!
So here we are, THE SHINE COMMUNITY, right here in Duluth, GA! We will help one another towards wellness and fullness of who we were created to be. All of us have unique purposes and gifts like the stars in the sky. And together, we are gonna SHINE!
STAFF
Mary and Wallace Shaffer, Co-Founders
Mary and Wallace Shaffer are founders of The Shine Community. Wallace will be overseeing personal growth and physical activities as well as operation of the Special Olympics teams and Mary will be overseeing program development and implementation.
Gunhee Kim "MG"
MG is a gifted musician, vocalist and artist. She is responsible for overseeing our creative arts and musical programming.
Jihae Lee
Jihae is a talented dancer and creator. She is responsible for overseeing our dance and digital art programming.

