A Peek into the Team
We each bring our own lived experiences, strengths, and perspectives — yet we’re united by a shared commitment to purposeful care, meaningful giving, and creating authentic, lasting connections for grieving children and their families.
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 rowdy boys, fueled by coffee, stubborn optimism, and quick wit and happily married to my biggest supporter. When I’m not wrangling daily chaos, you’ll often find me revving up my motorcycle, immersed in a good Sci‑Fi movie, 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. Through my work with the foundation, I’m committed to helping kids feel seen, supported, and celebrated. In my role as an RN case Manager, I consistently prioritized compassion and advocacy.
Jennifer Root Westfall- Director of Operations
I have been happily married for 24 years to a wonderful, supportive man. Together, we are proud parents of two grown sons—our absolute pride and joy—and their accomplishments bring us great happiness. I bring many years of nurturing experience, patience, and compassion to everything I do. I love spending time outdoors, deeply cherish attending church, and am passionate about serving and supporting my community.
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
Supportive Team Member-
My name is Ashley Whims and I am with Resilient Roots and Wings. I am a busy mom of 4, a wife, and a registered nurse for the last 15 years.
Like so many, I have been personally impacted by the loss of a loved one to addiction. In October of 2021 my sister, my only sibling Amber’s lifeless body was left along side the Tuscarawas river without any of her belongings or identification by some of her so called friends 3 days after she lost her battle with addiction. The situation was unimaginable for my family, most importantly Amber’s (at the time) 9 year old son Louis.
When asked to be a part of this organization it was an easy yes for me because I have seen first hand how the loss of a parent to addiction can effect a child left behind. Being able to give other children going through a similar situation a sense of hope and a feeling of love can heal pieces of all of us.
I am personally committed to ensuring that every young person we serve feels loved and supported as they navigate through their pain and grief, and I believe that together, we can create lasting, meaningful memories for these kids who need it most.
Sincerely,
Ashley Whims