CHESTERTOWN — As The Shelter Alliance begins its second year of full operation, the organization has announced planned transitions in leadership.
At its annual meeting June 11, the board of directors elected officers for 2026-2027: Genevieve Menard, president; Barbara Vann, vice president; Pam Vogel, secretary; and Tom Deliberto, treasurer.
Meanwhile, Dr. Kimrose Goodall concluded her service as executive director after notifying the board that she no longer intended to continue serving in the position on a long-term basis. The transition was completed on July 10, according to a news release.
During her tenure Goodall increased the visibility of The Shelter Alliance, whose mission, according to its website, is to support individuals experiencing homelessness by offering a safe and welcoming environment, along with essential services to help them rebuild their lives.
Goodall built on the case management program by introducing the Bridge to Stability model which requires the development of a life plan within 72 hours and also provides rapid rehousing. To accomplish this she fostered relationships with other organizations and agencies to help implement these plans.
“It has been a tremendous privilege to serve the residents of Kent County and to work alongside dedicated organizations, churches, volunteers, donors, community partners, advocates and individuals committed to addressing homelessness. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served this community throughout my tenure,” Goodall said in a July 10 email addressed to friends, community partners and supporters.
“Together, we developed Kent County’s first year-round homelessness response program, establishing coordinated case management, emergency shelter services, rapid rehousing, and wraparound support for individuals and families experiencing homelessness,” she said. ”Along the way, we strengthened community partnerships, expanded the organization’s capacity to serve, and helped increase public awareness and understanding of homelessness and the importance of compassionate, coordinated support.”
Goodall said she is hopeful that the foundation that has been established will continue to grow and serve those who need it most.
While the search for the new executive director is now underway, The Shelter Alliance will continue its case management program.
According to the news release, the organization also will continue to strengthen partnerships with community organizations, service providers, churches, employers, landlords and volunteers committed to restoring dignity and stabilizing individuals experiencing homelessness.
As it begins its second year of operation, The Shelter Alliance has set an immediate goal of securing a full-time, year-round shelter facility.
“In order to provide an appropriate environment and wrap-around services options to secure an existing space as well as the purchase of land if it is a more viable route will be considered,” the news release states.
The Shelter Alliance welcomes support from the public.
Checks payable to the Mid-Shore Community Foundation with the designation The Shelter Alliance in the memo line can be mailed to The Shelter Alliance, P.O. Box 2, Chestertown, MD 21620.
Online gifts may be made at https://midshore.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3211.
The Shelter Alliance Inc. is a component fund of the Mid-Shore Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.