On August 4, 2025, the Family Promise of Roane County (FPRC) Board of Trustees announced a difficult decision to eliminate the Executive Director position due to insufficient grant money and donations to sustain a full-time salary. This was announced via a letter from Board Chairperson Amy Keeling to the organization’s stakeholders and volunteers.

This decision, effective immediately, led to the departure of Executive Director Sonny Carr, though the Board emphasized that this was not due to any lack of effort or enthusiasm on his part.

To prioritize direct services for Roane Countians facing housing insecurity, Tabitha Lawson will continue as the full-time Shelter and Support Services Director, while Board member Greg Buckles will serve as Interim Director on a part-time basis to manage Thrift Store operations and enhance community awareness.

The Board, including Amy Keeling, Emily Gonzalez, Patricia Turner, Esther Parish, Scott Mason, Alyssa Cook, Casey Clark, and Phil Merrill, will collectively ensure FPRC’s smooth operation.

The organization expressed gratitude for ongoing support and invited opportunities to discuss their services with community groups.