A Place to Call Home: Jamie's* Journey from Hardship to Hope

Resident Coordinator

About Dallas Hope Charities (DHC): Dallas Hope Charities (DHC) empowers LGBTQIA+ individuals and supports homeless youth through programs like the Hope Center, the city’s first LGBTQIA+ homeless youth transitional living center. We strive to provide vital resources, advocacy, and a safe, inclusive environment for our residents.

Position Overview: The Part-Time Resident Coordinator is a critical direct service role, providing immediate support, resources, and advocacy to Hope Center residents. This role involves maintaining a safe and supportive residential environment, conducting safety checks, enforcing house policies, and assisting residents with resource access as directed by the House Manager. The ideal candidate is compassionate, organized, reliable, and committed to DHC’s mission. This position reports directly to the House Manager. This role offers significant hands-on experience and direct mentorship by the House Manager, providing a clear pathway for professional development in program management and social services.
Key Responsibilities:

Residential Operations and Safety

• Maintain a safe, respectful, and trauma-informed atmosphere within the Hope Center at all times.
• Conduct facility rounds, security checks, and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all residents during assigned shifts (evenings, overnights, or weekends).
• Rigorously enforce all Hope Center policies and house rules (e.g., chore checks, curfew, guest policy), documenting any infractions or critical incidents promptly.
• Utilize basic de-escalation techniques to mediate minor resident conflicts and address immediate behavioral concerns, escalating complex issues immediately to the House Manager.
• Prepare and submit detailed shift reports to the House Manager at the end of every shift.

Direct Resident Support and Advocacy

• Provide one-on-one guidance and support, helping residents navigate their individual support plans as designed by the management team.
• Assist residents with completing necessary paperwork for external services (healthcare, employment, education) and facilitate transportation to appointments when necessary.
• Conduct regular check-ins to monitor resident progress and adjust daily support activities as directed by the House Manager.

Resource Connection and Documentation

• Maintain familiarity with the established network of community resources and service providers.
• Facilitate connections between residents and appropriate resources, tracking follow-up for the case management team.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date case notes and documentation for each resident in the system, ensuring data integrity and strict confidentiality.
• Promptly communicate maintenance needs, facility issues, and supply shortages to the House Manager.

Qualifications:

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• How many years of direct residential or case support experience do you currently have? (A minimum of 2 years of experience in a social services or residential setting is required.)
• Strong verbal and written interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage time effectively during shifts.
• Commitment to working with vulnerable populations, specifically LGBTQIA+ youth.

Preferred:

• Required commitment to pursuing additional training/certification in crisis intervention or case management within the first 6 months.
• Direct experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and/or homeless youth.
• Familiarity with local Dallas community resources.
• Bilingual abilities (Spanish/English) are highly desirable.

Job Details:

• Type: Part-Time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)
• Employee Work Schedule: Variable hours, primarily composed of 6-hour shifts; requires flexibility for evening, overnight, and/or weekend coverage.
• Compensation: $22.00 – $26.00 per hour

How to Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter to hope@dallashopecharities.org with the subject line: “Part-Time Resident Coordinator Application.”

Dallas Hope Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

Katie Ibrahim has worked in a number of administrative roles over the last five years and is happy to be a part of the Dallas Hope Charities team as the Administrative Coordinator. She has previously worked at non-profits in the education and healthcare spaces and is skilled in a number of areas including calendar and task management, document organization, and team communications.

Originally from Orlando, Katie comes from a theatrical background where she also works as a director, stage manager, and acting teacher. She is passionate about organization, creativity, learning, and supporting the needs of a team. She holds a BFA in Theatre from Southern Methodist University and is grateful for the opportunity to use her versatile skills to work towards DHC’s mission of dignity, stability, and Hope for All.

When not working, Katie is likely watching movies with her fiance and their two cats. She also enjoys crochet, baking, and sharing meals with her friends and family.

With over seven years of experience as a civil engineer, Hector Pietro designs roadways, pedestrian and bike facilities, and stormwater systems that support safety, economic development, and sustainability in the community. In 2024, he was selected to join the Communities Foundation of Texas’s Emerging Leaders in Philanthropy Cohort, which inspired him to pursue a deeper impact in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Hector felt compelled to join an organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, and affirming services to LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness. The mission of Dallas Hope Charities—instilling dignity, stability, and hope—immediately resonated, and he knew he had to be part of it.

Impact and Passion
Hector is excited to serve on the Dallas Hope Charities Board of Directors alongside a group of passionate leaders with deep experience expanding the organization’s reach to LGBTQIA+ youth. He thrives in spaces filled with accomplished, driven individuals and was drawn to the board after reviewing data on DHC’s community impact. He firmly believes that loving those in need while they are learning to love themselves is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community.

Fun and Personal Touch
Hector taught himself to decorate sugar cookies using royal icing by watching TikTok videos—and has since become quite skilled, considering each one a miniature, edible work of art.

Favorite Quote: “We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

He hopes to see the Hope Center’s capacity expand and believes that can happen by increasing community awareness about the urgent need for DHC’s services—ultimately inspiring more donors and volunteers to take action. Grateful for the opportunity to serve, Hector is motivated to help drive that growth.

Originally from Tyler, Texas, Micah Adams graduated from Texas Tech University and currently works as an Advanced Planning Wealth Advisor at Cain Watters & Associates in Frisco. He holds the Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) designation, along with credentials as a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP) and Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP).

Micah’s passion for service began in college when he served as the philanthropy chairman for Theta Chi Fraternity. In that role, he organized various fundraising events and worked closely with an orphanage in Lubbock, helping to provide resources and support to children in need. These experiences fueled his desire to give back to his community and inspire meaningful change.

Micah first became involved with Dallas Hope Charities through volunteering at the Hope Center, where he taught financial literacy. The impact DHC has in the community deeply resonated with him—especially the organization’s focus on instilling dignity and hope by providing not just services, but the tools and support for long-term stability.

He believes DHC is more than a service provider—it’s a lifeline and a source of stability, compassion, and empowerment. Serving on the Board of Directors allows Micah to help drive positive change within the LGBTQIA+ community and work toward a more equitable future.

As a board member, Micah is guided by the belief that everyone has a responsibility to create a more equitable world. Whether in financial planning or philanthropy, he leads with empathy, purpose, and a vision for long-term impact.

Fun Fact: Micah and his partner love to travel, take their dog on runs, and spend time outdoors.

Favorite Quote: “The most important thing in any conversation is not to make the other person feel that they are wrong, but to make them feel heard.” – Malcolm Gladwell, Talking to Strangers

Current Responsibilities
Jesse Garcia is a seasoned executive consultant focusing on workplace strategy, change readiness, and improving organizational performance for his clients. He provides thought leadership, coaching, and people-focused solutions related to the workplace. He has a collaborative and approachable disposition, building and strengthening solid relationships along the way.

Experience
Before joining JLL in 2021, Jesse spent 14 years at Herman Miller where he led a team of Workplace Consultants in the U.S. and Canada, delivering insights and services related to strategic visioning, workplace evaluation and change readiness. Prior to Herman Miller, Jesse served as a marketing leader in insurance and financial services while at Aetna and Foresters Financial.

He has presented his research at conferences including NeoCon East, IDS-Canada, the ASID National Leadership Conference, BUILDEx-Vancouver and the SCUP-Western Symposium to name a few. Jesse is on faculty at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi and Texas Woman’s University where he teaches in the Colleges of Business. He’s published in the Houston Business Journal, Fort Worth Business Press, and El Paso Inc. for his articles on marketing and strategy.

Education and Affiliations
Jesse holds a bachelor’s degree from Vassar College, an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and a Master of Science degree in marketing research from Texas A&M University – Commerce. Jesse is a Certified ScrumMaster® and Certified Agile Leadership I through
Scrum Alliance. He earned the QPCR certification from CoreNet Global. He is designated as a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional. He is a Certified Practitioner of Human-Centered Design by LUMA Institute. Jesse also holds certificates in Change Management and Coaching from the Association for Talent Development. Jesse takes an active role in the JLL Mentorship Program, with mentees in North America and the Middle East.

Stephanie Quinn is a dynamic force for change and compassion in the Dallas community, serving as the Outreach and Education Engagement Manager at Dallas Hope Charities (DHC). With over 30 years of experience advocating for equity and dignity across complex social issues—including immigration, domestic violence, parental alienation, and trans rights—Stephanie’s dedication is both deeply personal and professionally impactful.

Her journey with DHC began in 2023 through her leadership in the Impact Dallas Community Coalition, where she witnessed firsthand the organization’s unwavering unity, integrity, and commitment during a critical time. Moved by the team’s heart and hustle, Stephanie championed new funding avenues to support DHC’s mission and soon found herself becoming part of that mission.

Stephanie now leads community outreach and education efforts that amplify LGBTQIA+ voices and create safe, affirming spaces through programs like Hopeful Discussions. With a gift for building strong, lasting partnerships, she has helped bring in vital funding for local nonprofits—fueling everything from mental health care access to inclusive programming for neurodivergent youth.

What motivates her most? The people. “It’s the leadership, staff, interns, and volunteers who show up and stand shoulder to shoulder to make sure this hope-filled, lifesaving work gets done.” She believes in the transformative power of advocacy, education, and visibility—and she’s just getting started.

Outside of her work, Stephanie is inspired by the simple yet profound moment when someone realizes they’re not alone. That spark—the glimmer of hope—is what drives her every single day.

Company Description
Dallas Hope Charities operates Hope Center, Dallas’s first LGBTQ+ homeless youth center and transitional living program. The organization is committed to reducing factors leading to LGBTQ+ suicide through the Collective Hope Coalition initiative. Dallas Hope Charities is a 501(c)3 public charity based in Dallas, TX, with a vision to end hunger, break the path of despair, and eliminate homelessness forever.

Role Description
The House Manager is a full-time, exempt leadership position responsible for the complete operational oversight, safety, and programmatic integrity of the Dallas Hope Center. This role requires an experienced professional to lead daily residential operations, drive programmatic strategy, manage staff and volunteers, ensure strict compliance with organizational policies, and safeguard the facility’s financial and physical assets.

The House Manager serves as the primary operational leader on-site, fostering a supportive, inclusive, and mission-aligned environment. The role reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Primary Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Program Oversight

• Directly supervise, mentor, and evaluate the team of Part-Time Resident Coordinators and all Center volunteers. This includes scheduling, performance reviews, and ensuring continuous professional development.
• Serve as the highest escalation point for resident issues, including advanced crisis intervention, conflict resolution, and complex behavioral incidents, ensuring comprehensive documentation and follow-up.
• Oversee the entire resident lifecycle: Manage referrals, conduct final admissions and discharge planning, and ensure resident data is accurately tracked in the case management system.
• Drive programmatic excellence by collaborating with the CEO to strategically develop, refine, and implement program policies and procedures that align the Hope Center with DHC’s long-term mission and strategic goals.
• Establish and monitor key program outcome metrics to ensure the seamless coordination of internal programs and external community services is maximizing resident success and facilitating measurable progress toward independence.

Administrative and Financial Stewardship

• Own, manage, and forecast the annual operational budget for the Hope Center, conducting monthly expense tracking and variance analysis to ensure sound fiscal stewardship.
• Manage resident financial agreements, including monitoring client rent and mandatory savings plans to promote financial stability and self-sufficiency.
• Prepare and submit comprehensive weekly operational reports to the CEO, detailing property status, compliance metrics, financial updates, and critical incidents.
• Support DHC’s grant and development efforts by providing accurate, timely data on program outcomes and impact narratives for funding reports.
• Maintain open and frequent communication with the CEO, keeping them informed of all significant aspects of Center operations, challenges, and successes.

Facility and Safety Management

• Ensure the physical property is safe, clean, and well-maintained, coordinating necessary maintenance and repairs promptly.
• Implement and rigorously enforce all DHC housing policies, procedures, and health/safety standards (e.g., chore checks, room inspections, facility rounds).
• Act as the primary contact for property vendors and contractors.
• Ensure staff and volunteers are properly trained in emergency procedures, including First Aid, CPR, and critical incident response protocols.

Required Experience and Education Qualifications:

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive direct experience in residential, housing, or program management, preferably in a transitional living environment or a similar social service setting.
• Minimum of three (3) years of direct supervisory experience, including staff management, training, and performance evaluation.
• Bachelor’s degree is required in Social Work, Psychology, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated advanced knowledge of best practices for working with homeless or vulnerable populations, including trauma-informed care and harm reduction models.

Essential Qualities:

• Profound cultural awareness and a passion for serving the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to communicate professionally with staff, residents, the CEO, and external partners.
• Expertise in conflict resolution and high-level de-escalation techniques.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex tasks, prioritize under pressure, and make timely, sound decisions.
• Proficiency in the Google Suite and experience with case management or database software.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk, drive, sit, twist, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk, hear, and climb stairs.
• Must lift or carry up to 25+ lbs. and push or pull up to 25+ lbs.
• Requires a valid driver’s license, personal vehicle, and active insurance.
• Must be available to respond to urgent facility or resident needs outside of regular business hours.

Professional Expectations:

• Remain mission-driven and trauma-informed in all aspects of the role.
• Participate in all mandatory staff training and planning sessions.
• Serve as a philanthropic ambassador for the agency within the community.

Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt Employee

Work Schedule: Flexible hours based on the needs of the Center; requires a high level of availability and presence.

Compensation: $55,000 – $60,000

Final Hire: Contingent upon passing a background check and random drug testing.

How to Apply: Submit your resume and cover letter to hope@dallashopecharities.org with the subject line: “House Manager Application.”

Dallas Hope Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

Location: Dallas, TX

About Dallas Hope Charities:
Dallas Hope Charities (DHC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals and supporting homeless youth in Dallas, TX. Through innovative programs like the Hope Center—the city’s first LGBTQIA+ homeless youth transitional living center—and a robust Outreach and Education Department, we foster inclusivity, hope, and long-term change in the North Texas community.

Job Summary:

The Outreach & Education Engagement Manager (OEEM) will organize and lead LGBTQIA+ prevention and education activities across North Texas. This role involves planning events, expanding prevention efforts to underserved populations, and building partnerships with community organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and local government entities. Additionally, the OEEM will assist in managing the daily operations of the Outreach & Education Department.

Key focus areas include managing:

• • Collective Hope Coalition – Contract Labor 
  • Safe Place Program
  • Hopeful Discussions
  • DHC Internship Program

• Hope Street Program – Outreach Coordinator

• Community Engagement Events

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, and coordinate programs and events.
• Review and assess event participation requests.
• Promote events and manage communication about screenings and activities.
• Collect, input, and report program data for internal and external stakeholders.
• Coordinate on-site activities during events.
• Maintain budgets and provide financial and community benefit reports.
• Track and maintain records of all participants in outreach activities.
• Prepare summary and detailed reports for various audiences.
• Collaborate with community partners, nonprofits, local companies, and government entities.

Qualifications:

• Experience in outreach, education, program management, or a related field.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to multitask.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse groups.
• Knowledge of LGBTQIA+ issues, mental health, and community-building strategies.
• Passion for DHC’s mission and a commitment to advocacy and inclusion.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Sociology, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Community Education, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, or related fields.
  • OR Four years of relevant work experience in LGBTQIA+ advocacy or outreach.

Job Details:

• Type: Full-Time
• Work Environment: Hybrid (remote and on-site in Dallas, TX)
• Compensation: $50,000 – $55,000 Competitive salary based on experience

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to hope@dallashopecharities.org with the subject line:
“Outreach & Education Engagement Manager Application.”

Dallas Hope Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

Location: Dallas, TX

About Dallas Hope Charities:
Dallas Hope Charities (DHC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering LGBTQIA+ individuals and supporting homeless youth in Dallas, TX. We operate the Hope Center, the city’s first LGBTQIA+ homeless youth center and transitional living program, and lead an Outreach and Education Department fostering inclusivity in the North Texas community.

Job Summary:
We are seeking a part-time Administrative Assistant to join our team. This hybrid role combines remote work with occasional on-site responsibilities at our Dallas office. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about making a difference.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage office operations: email correspondence, scheduling, and document organization.
• Coordinate calendars, prepare meeting agendas, and track action items.
• Maintain donor and volunteer databases with accurate data entry and record-keeping.
• Assist with event, meeting, and outreach logistics.
• Respond to inquiries via phone and email, providing excellent customer service.
• Support grant tracking and reporting processes.
• Perform other administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications:

• Previous administrative experience in a nonprofit or similar environment (preferred).
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Google Suite and Google Workspace; familiarity with CRM systems is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Passion for DHC’s mission and understanding of LGBTQIA+ community issues.

Job Details:

• Type: Part-Time (30–33 hours per week)
• Work Environment: Hybrid (remote and on-site in Dallas, TX)
• Compensation: $27 – $35 per hour based on experience

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to hope@dallashopecharities.org with the subject line:
“Part-Time Administrative Assistant Application.”

Dallas Hope Charities is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.

Lisa Stewart retired as the Director of Outreach at Highland Park United Methodist Church (HPUMC) in December 2021 after taking this position in July 2011, Lisa also worked as a program coordinator in the Youth Ministry at HPUMC for 4 years.

Lisa has a BA in Religious Education and a BA in Psychology from Centenary College of Louisiana. She has an MS in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington. She
has previously worked at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church in Houston and Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas.

Before coming to joining the HPUMC staff in May 2007, Lisa was a stay-at-home mom for 13 years. During that time Lisa was active as a volunteer at HPUMC and in the community as well as in her daughters’ schools. Lisa has served on the Board of Directors at CitySquare and Dallas Hope Charities.

As a person of faith, Lisa believes that local faith communities should work to fight poverty and promote justice. She hopes by her serving with Dallas Hope Charities that she can bring more faith-based organizations to support Dallas Hope Charities and work to repair some of the harm that has been done by some faith communities to the LGBTQIA+ community. All people are children of God and should feel the love of God expressed through communities of faith.

In her role at HPUMC, Tamika Perry was Lisa’s colleague. Lisa believes Tamika is the right person to lead Dallas Hope Charities and hopes to support her in her work by
serving on the Board.

She is married to Ken and together they have three daughters and two adorable grandchildren. They enjoy travel and family time at the lake.

Board of Directors, Vice Chair

Heather Bonfield is an accomplished Executive Coach who is passionate about her clients’ successes in the workplace. Seeing the growth of her clients as they discover more about themselves and what they want from their careers fuels her enthusiasm for coaching and training. Heather’s experience as an executive in Fortune 150 companies as well as an entrepreneur with numerous ventures gives her a unique perspective on what questions to ask to help clients tap into their potential while co-creating positive change.

Heather Bonfield is a:

• Certified Executive Coach
• Certified Organizational Development Coach
• Certified NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming) Coach Practitioner
• Certified Conflict Coach
• Certified Change Management Coach

Heather holds a BBA in Finance from the Texas McCombs School of Business as well as an Organizational Improvement Certificate from the Human Dimensions of Organizations department of The College of Liberal Arts at The University of Texas at Austin. Heather has a fervor for
philanthropic work including fundraising, volunteering, and board service. She has served on numerous boards including The Junior League of Dallas, Dallas Hope Charities, The Texas Exes, and many more.

Heather is a graduate of the T. Boone Pickens Leadership Institute, the ADL’s Glass Leadership Institute, and Leadership Dallas, the Dallas region’s premier leadership program. Heather is a member of the International Coaching Federation’s Global and North Texas chapters.

Visit www.beyourbestatwork.net to learn more about Heather and her work.

Board of Directors

Brandon Poland (he, him) has been providing marketing and business development in the behavioral health field for the past six years with a focus on mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Prior to that, he worked for the State of Texas for many years in criminal justice and investigations. His mission has always been to be a safe and sane person for people who are seeking help. Brandon strives to be part of the light at the end of the tunnel for those that he works with, both professionally and personally. Brandon has also had the pleasure of serving on the Board of Dallas Hope Charities since 2021, which provides transitional living and empowerment services to LGTBQ+ young adults facing homelessness.

Board of Directors

Roscoe Compton-Kelly has served as a Board Member of Dallas Hope Charities since 2018, in roles as board chair and board member. He is a passionate advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth and providing resources, specifically for the LGBTQIA+ homeless population. Roscoe also supports the efforts of Dallas Hope Charities and many other LGBTQIA+ nonprofits as his alter ego, Shantae Morgan. As Shantae, Roscoe has raised thousands of dollars for local North Texas LGBTQIA+ organizations over the last 7 years.

In his formal day role, Roscoe Compton-Kelly serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Education Opens Doors, leading strategic partnership efforts and donor relations for both earned and philanthropic efforts. In his role as CEO, he leads the cultivation, relationship management and strategy around EOD partners and donors.

A Texas native Compton-Kelly, and his husband Brian, an educator in the Dallas area, are actively involved in the Dallas community. Roscoe not only serves on the board of Dallas Hope Charities, but is also a Board Member for LGBT Outdoors, and a singing board member of the world-renowned Turtle Creek Chorale.

Housing Program Manager
jtorres@dallashopecharities.org

Biography

Jordan Rodriguez Torres joined the Dallas Hope Charities team in the summer of 2023 to become more involved with the LGBTQIA+ community. They have a passion for helping others and have been able to assist with a variety of individuals including special education programs in school districts, caregiving for geriatrics in assisted living facilities, foster care, and The Department of Family and Protective Services.

Jordan has a background in behavior management and received a BS in Applied Behavioural Analysis from Purdue Global. Their partner has experienced homelessness in the past, thus Jordan has a drive to assist those in the LGBTQIA+ community so that the impact of homelessness can have a lessened effect on them. They are committed to serving Dallas Hope Charities housing program by helping it grow and thrive amidst this political climate.

Jordan was born an Airforce Brat, as others would call it, in England and have lived in several states in North America before settling in Texas. When they are not growing DHC’s housing program, you can find them playing Magic: The Gathering at their favorite game stores, or at home with their partners and dogs, playing video games, board games, or watching anime.

Board of Directors

John Walls is a highly accomplished senior communications executive with a distinguished career in corporate and brand public relations. Based in Dallas, TX, John has excelled in the public and private sectors, driving strategic communications plans that directly support business objectives. With expertise in various areas such as communications strategy, brand management, crisis communications, and thought leadership strategy, he has consistently delivered exceptional results.

Currently, John serves as Principal and Chief Communications Strategist at JWPR, LLC (www.jwpr.co), where he provides strategic communications counsel to corporate, start-up, and non-profit clients across industries such as retail, technology, travel and hospitality, and ophthalmic optics and visual health. He immerses himself in clients’ businesses to provide tailored communications solutions and collaborates effectively with internal teams, external partners, and vendors to execute comprehensive strategies. His expertise lies in leadership profile development, strategic media relations, and communications and content strategy.

Before his current role, John was Senior Director of Corporate Communications & Content Strategy at Neiman Marcus Group. In this role, he oversaw integrated corporate, crisis, brand, and internal communications, strengthening corporate and brand equity for the organization and its luxury retail brands. He successfully positioned Neiman Marcus Group as an innovative and digital organization, promoting key initiatives and managing milestone events. John also provided ongoing media training to executives, conducted ongoing risk assessments for the organization, and directed corporate thought leadership efforts.

Before joining Neiman Marcus Group, John was Hilton’s Director of Brand Public Relations, Luxury & Lifestyle Brands. In this role, he led all media relations efforts for Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio, driving global luxury traveler preference and consideration. He oversaw brand experience programs and successfully launched Canopy by Hilton, positioning Hilton as a transformative organization in the lifestyle hotel segment. John also played a key role in the launch of LXR Hotels & Resorts and managed multi-million-dollar budgets supporting the brands.

John’s professional journey also includes significant contributions at Hampton by Hilton, Cohn & Wolfe, Match.com, Golin Inc., and Paige Hendricks Public Relations Inc. He holds a Master of Professional Studies in Corporate Communications and Public Relations from Georgetown University and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Advertising from Texas Christian University.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, John Walls is deeply committed to volunteerism and community engagement. He has dedicated his time and expertise to various organizations, including and outside of the LGBTQIA+ community, making a positive impact on important causes. As an Advocate at Dallas CASA for two years, he worked tirelessly to support and advocate for children in the foster care system, working directly on cases and ensuring that the children’s voices and needs were heard and met. John also served as a Board Member at Fashion Group International, Inc., for a two-year term, where he contributed his strategic insights and industry knowledge to promote the growth and development of the fashion industry. At Team DC, a charitable organization established to educate the LGBTQ+ community on the benefits of individual and team sports participation, he sat on the Board and held the role of Development Chair for a two-year term. Additionally, John was an active member of the Event Planning Committee at Black Tie Dinner, Inc., contributing to the organization’s efforts to raise funds and awareness for human rights causes. His volunteerism highlights his dedication to making a difference in the community and supporting organizations that strive for positive change.

John has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, including three coveted NMG Best Awards, Georgetown University’s “Hoya Professional 30” recognition, and the Hilton Circle of Excellence Corporate PR Director of the Year accolade. With his extensive expertise in communications strategy, team development, and professional storytelling, John continues to significantly impact the field of communications, driving successful initiatives that support business growth and enhance brand reputation.

Board of Directors, Board Chair

Before being asked to serve as the Board Chairman, Rex had been a member of Dallas Hope Charities’ board since April 2021. A recurring investor in media and emerging technologies, Rex seems to prefer working behind the scenes. He has consistently poured his resources into companies, individuals, charitable organizations, and civic causes alike out of his love for the city of Dallas and heart for serving the community.

He envisions the role of board chair as primarily a supportive one. Rex sees Dallas Hope Charities’ CEO, Tamika Perry, as a strong leader and looks forward to working closely with her on expanding the transitional housing program and various programmatic partnerships.

Addressing the recent renovation of the Hope Center—DHC’s transitional living center—Rex stated “the hope is we’ve renovated a place where our participants can really get a firm footing, get involved in the programs that we offer, and have a great launching pad for their lives.

Rex knows firsthand the impact that a safe, affirming house can provide. For over 20 years he and his partner Chris personally opened their home to folks in need of a place. Through word of mouth and referrals, Rex and Chris provided housing and mentorship while the individuals went through school, securing a profession, or simply stabilizing their life. Reflecting on it, Rex’s smile continues to grow, and you can sense the support and affection he must have for these friends, mentees and in some cases, chosen family.

When asked why he freely gives so much of his time and energy, Rex puts it simply: “I care about the impact we can make in a life and our city by what we do.” While Rex shares that his family was supportive when he came out as gay, there were still identity struggles to contend with, so his care runs deep in lived experience. “I care about the fact that some of our LGBTQ+ community is suffering. I’ve been there. It’s very difficult to know that we have human beings that are struggling with the kinds of things they are, and you really want the best for them, quickly. Sometimes it takes longer than expected so we must have patience.”

When Rex and his partner Chris find downtime, they enjoy family, travel, gathering with friends, attending artistic events, and eating out at locally owned restaurants. Naturally, everything comes back to community.