Charles Strobel

founding director, room in the inn

Charles Strobel is a native of Nashville with degrees from St. Mary’s College, Xavier University, and Catholic University. While serving as a parish priest, he welcomed homeless individuals into his church building for the night, which led to the creation of Room In The Inn in 1986. Nearly 200 Middle Tennessee congregations now participate in the Room In The Inn Winter Shelter program, and as many as 400 people are served daily at its downtown comprehensive center. He was instrumental in founding several other Nashville organizations that serve the homeless community and has served on numerous boards. Over the years, he has been recognized by the community with several honors, including being named Tennessean of the Year by both The Tennessean and the Nashville Scene.