A Peek into the Team
We each bring our own lived experiences, strengths, and perspectives, yet we are united by a shared belief in resilience, compassion, and the power of community. Having faced challenges, loss, triumphs, and growth in our own lives, we understand the importance of support during difficult seasons.
Together, we are committed to helping families build stronger foundations, creating opportunities for hope and stability, and ensuring every person we serve feels seen, valued, and supported.
Our mission is rooted in authentic connection, purposeful care, and the belief that even the strongest wings need roots to grow.
President/ Founder
Resilient Roots & Wings Foundation. Hi, I’m Sheena, founder of Resilient Roots & Wings Foundation — an Ohio-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization currently on the path to becoming a recognized.
My whole life, I’ve yearned to uplift others, transforming personal pain into meaningful purpose. Losing my brother shattered me, and out of that loss, I created this foundation to honor his memory—channeling that deep ache into compassionate support for children who’ve lost a loved one to addiction or other tragedies. Because no child should have to rebuild alone, we focus on creating steady, loving resources and opportunities for healing.
A little dive into my personal life: I'm a proud mom of four amazing kids, happily married to my biggest supporter, and passionate about helping families build stronger, more stable futures. Fueled by coffee, stubborn optimism, and a quick wit, I spend my days balancing family life, nonprofit leadership, and finding new ways to make a meaningful impact in our community through my daily work. When I'm not advocating for our mission, you can usually find me enjoying a good sci-fi movie, spending time with my family, or planning the next way to serve families in need.
Chasity Thiel-Gibson Secretery
I am passionate about supporting children and creating moments of genuine joy. My strong family values shape my purpose. I'm a devoted mother to my daughter, Brynlee, and proud dog mom to our golden retriever, Huxley. Family is at the center of everything I do, and I believe in showing up for others with compassion, kindness, and a servant's heart.
Through my work with Resilient Roots & Wings Foundation, I am committed to helping children feel seen, supported, and celebrated. As an RN Case Manager, I have consistently prioritized advocacy, compassion, and helping individuals navigate challenging circumstances with dignity and care. My passion for serving others extends beyond my profession, as I am always looking for opportunities to encourage, uplift, and bless those around me. Whether through a thoughtful gesture, a listening ear, or direct support, I believe small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on someone's life.
Jennifer Root Westfall- Director of Operations
I have been happily married for 24 years to a wonderful and supportive husband. Together, we are proud parents of two grown sons who have always been our greatest joy. Family, faith, and service are at the heart of everything I do. I enjoy spending time outdoors, cherish attending church, and am passionate about giving back to my community.
Throughout the years, I have been blessed with the opportunity to care for and nurture children, a role that has become one of my life's greatest passions. Known for my patience, compassion, and unwavering dedication, I strive to create a safe, loving, and supportive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to thrive. My heart for helping others extends beyond caregiving, as I believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and deeply loved.
As Director of Operations for Resilient Roots & Wings Foundation, I am honored to help strengthen our mission of supporting families and creating brighter futures for children in our community. I believe that kindness, consistency, and genuine care can leave a lasting impact, and I am committed to serving others with the same love and compassion that have guided my journey.
Vice President-Lyndsey Root
I'm a proud mother of four incredible children who have been my greatest source of strength and purpose. Throughout my life, I've experienced challenges that have tested my resilience, including the loss of loved ones, supporting family members through struggles with addiction, and rebuilding a strong foundation for my family during seasons of grief and uncertainty. While those experiences shaped me, they never defined me. Instead, they strengthened my compassion for others and deepened my belief that hope and healing are possible, even in life's most difficult moments.
Many of these challenges were faced during a time when the kind of community support families need wasn't always readily available. Because of that, I understand firsthand how isolating hardship can feel and how impactful even the smallest act of support can be. My passion for serving through Resilient Roots & Wings Foundation comes from a desire to help create the resources, connections, and encouragement that I wish had been more accessible during my own journey. I am committed to ensuring families facing difficult seasons feel seen, supported, and reminded that they do not have to walk through them alone
Hannah Gee- Treasurer
Hannah is the kind of person whose love is an action, not a word. She pours her whole heart into her daughter, her husband, her family, and the animals she cares for — showing up with a steadiness and tenderness that makes people feel safe around her.
She is naturally selfless. She gives without keeping score, supports without needing attention, and carries a quiet strength that comes from surviving and understanding hard things.
As a social worker, Hannah brings lived empathy. She doesn’t just know about addiction and tragedy — she understands them in a way that allows her to sit with people in their darkest moments without judgment. Her compassion is real, grounded, and earned.
She leads with heart, loyalty, and a deep belief in helping others find their footing again. Whether she’s supporting a family in crisis or loving her own family fiercely, Hannah shows up with the same unwavering kindness
