In the St. Louis nonprofit community, there's a leader who simply shines and is widely respected for her dedication and steady vision: Michelle Charbonnier, executive director of MoNetwork. Known for her thoughtful leadership style and deep commitment to community outreach, Michelle has helped guide the organization through a period of growth while keeping its mission firmly rooted in compassion and connection.
MoNetwork serves individuals who use drugs and families facing difficult circumstances by providing resources, education and support services that emphasize dignity and respect.
Michelle says their services include peer support, recovery supportive activities and family support services. "We also link people to care, including substance use and mental health treatment, medical care, housing, employment resources and other essential services. For those who cannot reach us, we reach them through our street outreach team who takes our supplies and services to the areas with the most need, including encampments in downtown and north city.”
Many years ago, Michelle says her own path to recovery led her to helping others in the same space she was once in herself. Since stepping into her leadership role, she's focused on expanding the organization’s reach while strengthening partnerships with local agencies, health care providers, and community groups. Her approach centers on collaboration, believing that meaningful change happens when organizations work together rather than in isolation.
“We connect people to treatment and we're a vital part of the community. We're doing boots on the ground work, serving some of the city's most vulnerable members. There's no other organization in the state of Missouri doing the work we do, the way we do it. Yet, that's not what makes MoNetwork so special. It's the way we treat people which sets us apart. Everyone who walks through our door is met with radical love, deep compassion and unwavering hope," Michelle asserts.
This community leader is known for balancing the day-to-day needs of running a nonprofit with long-term planning that keeps the organization responsive to the community. Whether coordinating outreach efforts, organizing educational events or speaking with local leaders, she brings a calm, steady presence that has earned trust across a wide range of audiences.
Like a chameleon, one just might find Michelle around any corner. “Aside from my role at MoNetwork, I'm a therapist with Plan Your Recovery at Clayton Behavioral and I'm also building my own coaching and speaking business. I'm a member of Metro Community Church in Edwardsville, Illinois, where I host a bible study group and lead a discipleship group. I'm a member of Women Empowering Women, attending the West County and Lafayette Square meetings. I recently started participating in the Rooted Sisters community in Chesterfield,” she explains.
In her few moments of free time, Michelle can be found exploring a new outdoor trail, reading the next best-seller, traveling to a new spot and spending time with those she loves.