Tamara Shovelton
Written and Photographed by Nancy Clover
Passion isn’t just something you say — it’s something you feel the moment you walk into a room. And when you meet Tamara Shovelton, you feel it immediately.
Tamara doesn’t just talk about helping veterans — she lives it.
A U.S. Army veteran herself, Tamara understands firsthand the sacrifices, the transitions, and sometimes the struggles that come after service. Now, as Director of Veterans’ Services for the City of Melrose, she has made it her mission to ensure that no veteran in this community is left wondering where to turn.
One of the most powerful things she emphasizes is simple — but incredibly important: “These are your benefits. You earned them.”
Through education sessions and one-on-one support, she works to break down a common misconception — that using benefits somehow takes them away from someone else. It doesn’t. Tamara makes sure veterans know that these resources exist because of their service.
And she backs that passion with action every single day at the Veterans’ Services Department.
Here’s just a snapshot of what she and her office provides to the over 600 veterans in Melrose:
- Hosting the National Vietnam War Veterans Day Brunch on March 28 at Memorial Hall from 11-2 for veterans and community members. Please RSVP by calling 784-979-4188
- Chapter 115 benefits—critical financial support for housing, food, and medical needs
- Emergency assistance when life takes an unexpected turn
- A monthly Veterans Food Pantry (3rd Wednesday, 9 AM–12 PM) at Memorial Hall
- Help navigating VA claims and benefits
- Outreach to veterans who may be isolated, struggling, or in crisis
If you’ve ever tried to navigate the VA system, you know—it can be overwhelming. Tamara is the person who sits down with you and says, “Let’s figure this out together.”
Her background is as impressive as her dedication: U.S. Army veteran. Two master’s degrees in history (from Arizona State University and UNC Wilmington). Experience as an educator, advisor, and business professional.
But what truly sets her apart isn’t just her résumé — it’s her approach.
Her door is always open. Literally.
She reaches out. She follows up. She makes sure people don’t slip through the cracks. Whether it’s helping a veteran secure housing, access healthcare, or simply feel seen and supported—Tamara shows up.
And in a community like Melrose, that matters more than most people realize.
Because behind every benefit processed, every phone call returned, and every food pantry box handed out...is someone who served our country — and someone like Tamara making sure they’re not forgotten.
That’s what passion looks like. That’s what service looks like.
Melrose is stronger because of women like Tamara Shovelton — women who continue to serve long after their uniform comes off.
