“GRACE is a collaboration of so many who work together to make sure that all in our community can thrive and build a beautiful life. I am so grateful to be a part of that GRACE family.” And a part of the family Jina Walker has become as she completes her first year of service as the new (not so new) Chief Program Officer of GRACE. Jina started with GRACE in her new role in August of 2024, but she is no stranger to providing grace and compassion to those who are struggling and in need of a little helping hand.
With over 12 years of experience in social service programming including outreach, housing, and emergency assistance, Jina brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. She is the very definition of the phrase “hit the ground running” and within her first year she has already made some remarkable improvements to an already amazing team. Notably she has spearheaded an expansion of hours that GRACE is able to serve families, adding three additional hours each day to better accommodate clients without interfering with other responsibilities they may have such as work schedules. She has also created a system where clients can walk-in or, if able, can make an appointment, which has cut down on clients wait times for services substantially. Most exciting is the addition of new ways for GRACE to serve the community, building on the successes of our existing Mentorship Housing program. The GRACE team is thrilled with her efforts so far and can’t wait to see what the next 12 months bring for the programs in her charge including pantry, clinic, seasonal programs as well as emergency financial programming and housing.
As Jina so aptly puts it, “The need is great, but GRACE will always find a way to serve our community and provide continued excellence, just as we have for the past nearly 40 years.”
Jina comes to us with 21 years of experience in nonprofits including most recently serving as Director of Programs for Tarrant County Samaritan Housing. She holds a Masters in Education, Guidance and Counseling and is a doctoral student at Abilene Christian University pursuing a Doctorate of Education, Positive Organizational Leadership.
Join us in welcoming Jina to her 2nd year with GRACE and congratulating her on a job well done in year one!
