Our People
Roderick Simms
Position: CEO/Founder
Roderick Simms is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, where his deep commitment to supporting veterans is the cornerstone of the organization’s mission. With a career dedicated to improving the lives of those who have served, Roderick has established himself as a passionate advocate and a visionary leader in the veteran community.
A retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force, Roderick brings a wealth of firsthand experience and insight into the challenges faced by veterans. His military background, combined with his personal dedication, fuels his drive to ensure that veterans receive the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. Under his leadership, the foundation focuses on filling critical gaps in services for severely injured veterans, providing them with mortgage-free housing, comprehensive support programs, and community integration opportunities.
Roderick's leadership is characterized by his ability to inspire and mobilize others around a shared vision of service and support. He has successfully built partnerships with key organizations, including military medical centers and local businesses, to expand the foundation’s reach and impact. His strategic approach to fundraising and program development has positioned The Good Faith Veterans Foundation as a vital resource for veterans in need.
Beyond his role at the foundation, Roderick is actively engaged in the veteran community, leveraging his extensive network to advocate for policies and initiatives that benefit veterans and their families. His efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of many, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the well-being of those who have served our nation.
As CEO and Founder, Roderick Simms continues to lead The Good Faith Veterans Foundation with a clear vision and a deep sense of purpose, ensuring that the foundation remains a beacon of hope and support for veterans across the country.
Jackie Simms
Position: President
Jackie Simms serves as the President of The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, where she leads with a deep passion for improving the lives of veterans and their families. With over 20 years of experience in aging and disability services, Jackie has dedicated her career to advocating for and supporting some of the most vulnerable populations in our society.
Her extensive background includes working closely with veterans who have sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), a role that has allowed her to develop specialized expertise in addressing the unique challenges faced by this community. Through her work, Jackie has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate care and ensuring that veterans receive the support they need to thrive.
As President of The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, Jackie brings a wealth of knowledge and a strategic vision to the organization. She is instrumental in shaping and implementing key initiatives that align with the foundation's mission to fill critical gaps in the lives of severely injured veterans. Her leadership is marked by a focus on collaboration, innovation, and a relentless drive to improve the quality of life for those who have served our country.
Jackie’s dedication extends beyond her professional accomplishments; she is a passionate advocate for policies and programs that enhance the well-being of veterans and older adults. Under her guidance, The Good Faith Veterans Foundation continues to expand its impact, offering mortgage-free housing, support services, and community integration programs that are tailored to meet the evolving needs of veterans and their families.
With her deep expertise and unwavering commitment, Jackie Simms is a driving force behind the foundation's efforts to create meaningful change in the lives of the veterans we serve.
Silvester Harrison Sr.
Position: Vice President
Silvester Harrison Sr. is a retired U.S. Army veteran with over 20 years of dedicated service to his country. Following his distinguished military career, Silvester continued his commitment to serving others as the Vice President of Hungry Homeless Veterans in Hope Mills, NC, a position he held for 15 years. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in supporting and advocating for veterans in need, helping them transition to stable and fulfilling lives.
In addition to his work with veterans, Silvester has been deeply involved in leadership roles within the Masonic community, where he was in charge of multiple Masonic organizations. His leadership and commitment to service have been recognized and respected across various communities.
Currently, Silvester serves as the Senior Deacon at Rhema Ministries COGIC, where he continues to demonstrate his unwavering dedication to supporting and uplifting those around him.
As the Vice President of The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, Silvester Harrison Sr. brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and leadership to our mission of improving the lives of veterans. His lifelong dedication to service, both in the military and in civilian life, exemplifies the values that drive our organization forward.
Timothy Donelson
Position: Secretary
Timothy Donelson is the Operations Manager for The Good Faith Veterans Foundation. He plays a critical role in ensuring that the foundation's programs run smoothly and efficiently. With a background in operations management, Timothy brings a wealth of experience in organizational development and program implementation.
His attention to detail and organizational skills ensure that the foundation operates efficiently and effectively, allowing us to focus on our mission to serve veterans in need.
Kevin Kalgren
Position: Program Manager
Kevin Kalgren is the Program Manager for The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, where he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in managing programs that directly benefit veterans and their families. An active member of the United States Air Force, Kevin serves as a Technical Sergeant (TSgt) and is deeply committed to supporting his fellow service members.
With a background in program management and a passion for serving those who have served, Kevin plays a crucial role in the development and implementation of initiatives that align with the foundation's mission. His hands-on experience in both military and civilian capacities allows him to understand the unique challenges faced by veterans, enabling him to create effective programs that address their needs.
Dedrick Walker
Position: Adaptive Cycling Coordinator
Dedrick Walker serves as the Cycling Coordinator for The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, where he is dedicated to enhancing the physical and mental well-being of veterans through adaptive sports. He is an avid cyclist himself and has participated in numerous veteran-focused cycling events, including charity rides and endurance challenges. His primary focus is on program promotion, raising awareness about the benefits of adaptive cycling within the community, planning rides, instructing and training participants, ensuring safety and facility accessibility, as well as maintaining equipment. With a focus on creating inclusive and accessible cycling opportunities, Dedrick designs and oversees programs that empower veterans of all abilities to connect, heal, and thrive. His leadership in this role exemplifies a deep commitment to fostering resilience, camaraderie, and holistic wellness among those who have served our nation.
Dedrick Walker is a highly decorated retired First Sergeant (1SG) with over two decades of dedicated service to the United States Army. With a proven track record of leadership and operational expertise, he has served in a variety of challenging assignments, including combat deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Horizon. A skilled leader and mentor, Dedrick has a deep commitment to developing people and fostering a cohesive team environment. He possesses a strong work ethic, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a keen ability to adapt to rapidly changing situations. Upon retirement from the Army, Dedrick continues to serve the San Antonio community through volunteer work, veterans' organizations, homeless shelters, food banks and various community outreach facilities. Dedrick says, “Giving back to the community is paramount in helping individuals with disabilities experience the joy and benefits of cycling. It promotes overall wellness, positive interactions and mental stability.”
Dr. Jennifer BakerPenn
Position: Outreach Coordinator
Dr. Jennifer D. BakerPenn serves as the Outreach Coordinator for The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, bringing a deep well of experience, resilience, and dedication to her role. A retired U.S. Navy veteran with over a decade of service, Dr. BakerPenn has transitioned from a distinguished military career to become a passionate advocate for veterans' rights and well-being.
During her time in the Navy, Dr. BakerPenn served in various critical roles and completed multiple deployments. Her life took a significant turn in 2006 when she sustained severe injuries during deployment, leading to a long and challenging recovery period. Diagnosed with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), she spent the next decade bedridden, facing immense physical and mental health challenges. Through participation in VA-led programs and holistic therapies, Dr. BakerPenn made remarkable strides in her recovery, ultimately choosing a path centered on spirituality, peace, and advocacy.
As the Outreach Coordinator for The Good Faith Veterans Foundation, Dr. BakerPenn is dedicated to expanding the foundation's reach and impact. Her role involves building and nurturing relationships with veterans, community organizations, and supporters to ensure that the foundation’s programs and resources are accessible to those who need them most. Her personal journey of recovery and her commitment to advocacy make her uniquely qualified to connect with and support veterans who have faced similar challenges.
In addition to her work with the foundation, Dr. BakerPenn is the Founder and Advocate at Voices of Valor, an organization dedicated to sharing veterans' stories and advocating for their rights. Her mission is to create a community where veterans feel valued, supported, and empowered to live fulfilling lives post-service.