Founded by leaders with lived experience, committed to transforming lives through comprehensive support and pathways to stability
Save Our Selphs was born from personal experience and unwavering compassion. Founded by Shai and Nikaila Burton, our organization emerged from the understanding that true transformation requires more than temporary solutions—it demands comprehensive support, authentic connection, and unwavering belief in human potential.
Having walked the path of struggle ourselves, we know firsthand the barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals and youth aging out of foster care. We understand the stigma, the challenges, the moments of hope and despair. This lived experience doesn't just inform our work—it is the foundation of everything we do.
We're in the early stages of our journey. We've participated in over 4 community vendor events, including Juneteenth at Mellon Park, building awareness and connecting with supporters. Our 501(c)(3) application is pending, our programs are designed, and we're actively working toward securing our facility and funding to launch operations.
To provide comprehensive support services that empower formerly incarcerated individuals and youth aging out of foster care to achieve stable housing, meaningful employment, and fulfilling lives free from the cycle of homelessness.
A community where every person—regardless of their past—has access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to build a stable, dignified life and reach their full potential.
Founded and led by individuals who understand the journey from struggle to stability
President & Founder
"Everyone has a purpose. My goal is to help people discover theirs—no matter their background, age, gender, or color."
Shai Burton, President and Founder of Save Our Selphs, is a leader with a heart of gold and a mission rooted in experience. Having walked the same road as many of those he now helps, he embodies resilience, self-drive, and compassion. His journey from struggle to success fuels his dedication to giving back and guiding others toward a better life.
Mr. Burton believes deeply that everyone has a purpose, and his goal is to help people discover theirs—no matter their background, age, gender, or color. With genuine understanding and an unwavering belief that "if there's a will, there's a way," he continues to inspire hope and change within the community every day.
Executive Director & Co-Founder
"Real change starts with understanding—and when people come together with love and intention, lives truly transform."
Nikaila Burton, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Save Our Selphs, leads with compassion, vision, and an unwavering dedication to making a difference. Her mission is to build bridges for those facing homelessness and to create opportunities for individuals who are often overlooked—especially youth aging out of foster care and those re-entering society after incarceration.
Driven by purpose and guided by empathy, Mrs. Burton works tirelessly to turn vision into action. Her leadership style blends organization and heart, ensuring every initiative reflects dignity, hope, and community support. She believes that real change starts with understanding—and that when people come together with love and intention, lives truly transform.
Comprehensive program models developed and ready
Experienced founders with lived experience leading
Participated in 4+ vendor events building awareness
Currently pending approval for tax-exempt status
Securing location to begin serving those in need
Building partnerships to launch operations
We have the vision, the programs, and the leadership. Now we need community support to open our doors and begin transforming lives. Every donation, partnership, and volunteer hour brings us closer to serving those who need us most.