The Shield Bearer Board of Directors announced the departure of long-time Executive Director Roy Wooten effective April 5, 2019. The organization expanded under his leadership since 2007, as it grew from a small staff of two part-time counselors in one office location to a team of over thirty staff with six locations and became a trusted referral source for pastors, physicians, educators and other community-based organizations.
According to Founder and Vice Chair Matthew White, “We are thankful for Roy’s shepherding of the ministry and the strong team he has assembled which will continue to build toward the vision and mission of the organization.” Matthew shared that while it is sad to see him go, “I know we are in great shape for whomever God will bring to lead the organization next.”
Pictured left to right in the photo: Shield Bearer Founder and Vice Chair Matthew White, Executive Director Roy Wooten, Associate Director Melissa Rotholz
Roy will be transitioning into the Executive Director position of The Crucible Project, an international Christian men’s movement. “It has been a wonderful experience to live out my God-given mission through Shield Bearer and words cannot fully express my deep gratitude for the incredible Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and donors whom I have worked alongside to meet Shield Bearer’s mission during my tenure”, Roy said. He went on to share, “I am going through a grieving process over leaving Shield Bearer, but I believe Shield Bearer is in great shape for this transition as I continue to minister in another calling.”
The Board of Directors has begun a search process to fill the vacancy and has named Melissa Rotholz, Interim Executive Director effective April 6, 2019. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Texas State University and a Master of Science in Organizational and Human Resource Development from Abilene Christian University. She has served the past five years as the Associate Director and is well known by donors, volunteers and community leaders. “We are so thankful for the legacy Roy has created at Shield Bearer. Our team is strong and deeply committed to furthering Shield Bearer’s mission. We look forward to continued service and program excellence as we work with the community to strengthen individuals, couples, and families,” shared Melissa. Matthew added, “It is our intention to continue the high quality of our services without a hitch throughout this transition and continue to build on our successes.”
Shield Bearer is a 501c3 nonprofit counseling and community resource center that provides services on a sliding scale. Shield Bearer has six locations in Houston and serves individuals, couples, and families including those recovering from the trauma of human trafficking, domestic violence, crime, abuse, war, and natural disasters. Additional information about services and programs can be found online at shieldbearer.org or by calling (281) 894-7222. Those interested in applying for the Executive Director position are asked to send a resume and cover letter to administrator@shieldbearer.org.