Shonda Schaefer steps down as CEO of nonprofit Grace after 16 years as leader

After 16 years as its leader, Shonda Schaefer has stepped down as the CEO of Grapevine-based nonprofit Grace as of June 1.

Grace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides food, clothing, financial assistance and other vital necessities to Grapevine and northeast Tarrant County. It operates a food pantry and community clinic, provides emergency assistance and transitional housing as well as hosts several seasonal programs, such as its summer feeding program and Christmas Cottage.

Schaefer’s leadership earned the nonprofit a reputation for compassion, excellence and effectiveness, said Susie Howell, president of Grace's board of directors, in an announcement sent to the Grace community. She said Grace became known as a place where those with personal crises could come for physical, financial and emotional healing under Schaefer’s stewardship.

“We will continue this legacy as we move forward,” Howell said in the announcement.

Stacy Pacholick will serve as interim executive director of Grace. Howell said her experience as the nonprofit’s chief program officer will make her a strong and informed leader for the group during this transition period.

“Her commitment to the Grace family and community is unwavering, and we are confident she will gracefully shepherd the organization into its newest chapter,” she said.