WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital is proud to recognize the compassionate work of Shelby Wilson, RN, Manager of Ambulatory Services, who has founded Ally’s Hope, Inc., a faith-based sober living home for women in recovery located in Elkins.
Ally’s Hope, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and WVARR-certified program, officially opened its doors in December 2025. The home offers a structured 3-18 month program for women who have already achieved 30 days of confirmed sobriety. The residence can accommodate up to 10 women and includes a full-time house manager to provide daily oversight and support.
Program participants commit to mandatory recovery meetings and therapy, a 12-step program, employment and church attendance on Sundays. Many residents are referred from rehabilitation programs or through the judicial system. The mission is to provide a safe, clean and supportive environment that truly feels like home while women build a sustainable path to recovery.
“Opening a female sober living home is deeply personal for me,” Wilson shared. “I walked this journey with my own child a few years ago. I wanted to create a place that is warm, safe and welcoming – somewhere no other mother has to feel the way I did when I left my daughter at a facility that didn’t feel like home. At Ally’s Hope, women receive spiritual growth, love, support and guidance on their road to recovery.”
Wilson brings more than 17 years of nursing experience to this effort, including years as an emergency room nurse and three years teaching nursing at Alderson Broaddus University. She has served at St. Joseph’s Hospital for nearly seven years, including six years as the hospital’s Opioid Coordinator before stepping into her current leadership role in ambulatory services. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
The initiative has drawn strong community support. Multiple churches in Elkins are actively involved, and Wilson partnered with the Randolph County Commission for the start-up investment.
“My faith has guided me on this journey. Lives will change within these walls, and we are excited to watch it happen,” Wilson said. “I’m honored by the belief and support our community has shown. This would not be possible without my faith, my husband, my family and especially my daughter Ally, who is my inspiration.”
Most referrals come from rehabilitation facilities or the judicial system. Exclusion criteria apply. An information and referral sheet is available upon request.
Referrals may be made by contacting Shelby Wilson at 304-614-9711 or allyshopeinc@gmail.com.
