Empowering Lives, Building Stronger Communities
“At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, we provide hope, care, and opportunities for those in need.”
About Us
Creating Opportunities for Growth and Change
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, we are committed to creating a compassionate and supportive environment for individuals and families in need. Founded on the principles of care, dignity, and mutual respect, our organization works tirelessly to uplift communities by providing essential human services and opportunities for growth.
we believe every person has the potential to lead a fulfilling and empowered life. Our programs focus on education, skill development, family support, health and wellness, and community engagement. Through these initiatives, we strive to break barriers, reduce inequalities, and foster a sense of hope and belonging.
We are more than a service provider—we are a family dedicated to making a positive, lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. By working together, we can build stronger, healthier communities where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Our Work: What We Do to Make a Difference
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, our work is driven by compassion and a commitment to empower individuals and strengthen communities. We provide essential human services that address immediate needs while fostering long-term growth and self-sufficiency. Through our programs, we create opportunities for education, wellness, and economic stability, ensuring that every person we serve has the support and resources to thrive.
Family Assistance
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, we understand that families sometimes face unexpected challenges that can disrupt their stability and well-being. Our Family Assistance programs are designed to provide immediate relief and long-term support to families in crisis. Whether it’s access to nutritious food, clothing, shelter, or emergency financial aid, we are here to help meet the essential needs of those struggling to get by. Beyond basic assistance, we also connect families to counseling, parenting resources, and community services that foster resilience and self-reliance. Our goal is to create a safety net that empowers families to overcome hardships and build brighter futures.
Education & Skill Development
We believe education and skills are powerful tools for breaking cycles of poverty and opening doors to opportunity. Shepherd Care Association of NEA offers a variety of educational programs and skill-building workshops aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge and abilities needed to secure sustainable employment and improve their quality of life. From literacy and GED preparation to vocational training and computer skills, our programs are tailored to meet diverse community needs. We also provide career counseling and job placement assistance, helping participants transition successfully into the workforce. By investing in education and skills development, we empower people to achieve independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Health & Wellness
Good health is foundational to a thriving life, yet many in our community face barriers to accessing quality care and wellness resources. Shepherd Care Association of NEA promotes holistic health through programs focused on both physical and mental well-being. Our services include health education, screenings, mental health support, and wellness activities that encourage healthy lifestyles. We collaborate with healthcare providers and mental health professionals to ensure individuals receive compassionate, comprehensive care. By addressing health disparities and fostering wellness, we aim to enhance the overall quality of life and resilience of those we serve.
Community Outreach
Strong communities are built on connection, collaboration, and shared responsibility. Our Community Outreach initiatives seek to engage, empower, and unite the people of Walnut Ridge and surrounding areas. We organize events, workshops, and support groups that foster dialogue, understanding, and collective action. Outreach efforts also include advocacy for underserved populations and partnerships with local organizations to maximize resources and impact. Through these efforts, Shepherd Care Association of NEA cultivates a vibrant community spirit where everyone’s voice is heard, and everyone has a role in building a better tomorrow.
Our Mission
Empowering Lives with Care and Compassion
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, our mission is to provide comprehensive human services that uplift individuals and transform communities. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of compassion, respect, and inclusion, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
We believe in the potential of every individual and strive to break barriers that prevent growth and self-sufficiency. Through our programs in family support, education, health, and community development, we aim to create lasting, positive change that empowers people to lead better lives.
Our Impact
Transforming Communities Through Action
We take pride in Shepherd Care Association of NEA has made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals and families across Northeast Arkansas, serving as a catalyst for positive change in our communities. From providing essential resources to offering life-changing programs, our work touches every corner of the region, fostering hope and opportunity where it is needed most. Our community outreach initiatives have empowered individuals to overcome challenges, build new skills, and forge stronger connections with their neighbors. By addressing critical needs such as food security, education, and emotional support, we have helped families thrive and communities flourish. Each success story is a testament to our unwavering commitment to care and compassion, and we continue to expand our reach, ensuring that our impact grows deeper and wider with every passing day.project we complete.
Our Vision
A Future Where Every Life Thrives
Our vision is to build a world where every individual has the opportunity to live with dignity, hope, and self-reliance. At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, we dream of stronger communities connected by compassion and driven by a shared commitment to care for one another.
We envision a society free from barriers where education, health, and essential resources are accessible to all. By empowering individuals and fostering unity, we strive to create sustainable change that lasts for generations.
Our Value
Guiding Principles for a Caring Community
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, our core values serve as the foundation for everything we do, shaping our approach to service and our interactions with the community.
Compassion
We are guided by compassion, ensuring that every action we take is rooted in empathy and a genuine desire to improve lives.
Integrity
Integrity drives us to operate with transparency, honesty, and accountability, building trust with those we serve.
Respect
Respect is at the heart of our work, as we honor the dignity and worth of every individual, celebrating diversity and fostering inclusion.
Empowerment
Empowerment is our commitment to equipping people with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, while collaboration reflects our belief in the power of working together to achieve shared goals.
Testimonials: Words From Happy People
When I first came to Shepherd Care Association of NEA, I was struggling to feed my family after losing my job. The Food Assistance Program at 111 SE Fourth St, Walnut Ridge, provided us with nutritious meals and pantry staples, but more than that, they gave us hope and dignity. Their staff connected me with job placement services, helping me build a resume and land a new career. The compassion and support I received transformed our lives, and I’m forever grateful for their unwavering commitment to our community.
Shawn McDade
★★★★★
As a single father, I felt overwhelmed trying to support my kids’ education. Shepherd Care Association of NEA’s Educational Support Services changed everything for us. Their after-school tutoring at Walnut Ridge gave my children the confidence to excel in school, while their mentors inspired them to dream big. The program’s caring approach made us feel like family, and I’m amazed at the difference it’s made. Shepherd Care Association is a lifeline for families like mine, and I can’t thank them enough.
Karen Oles
★★★★★
I was struggling with anxiety and didn’t know where to turn until I found Shepherd Care Association of NEA’s Mental Health Counseling services. The counselors at 111 SE Fourth St, Walnut Ridge, created a safe space where I could heal and grow. Their compassionate care and practical tools helped me rebuild my confidence and find peace. Shepherd Care Association’s dedication to emotional wellness is truly life-changing, and I’m so grateful for their support in my journey.
Antony Watts
★★★★★
Our Team
Make a Direct Difference
Dr. Linda Harper
Executive Director
Dr. Linda Harper serves as the Executive Director of Shepherd Care Association of NEA, bringing over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership. Based at 111 SE Fourth St, Walnut Ridge, she oversees all programs, ensuring they align with our mission to uplift and empower. Her visionary approach and deep compassion inspire our team, fostering a culture of collaboration and impact. Linda’s commitment to transparency and community engagement has earned her a trusted leader, driving Shepherd Care Association’s growth and strengthening Northeast Arkansas’ communities every day.
Robert Jenkins
Program Manager
Robert Jenkins is the Program Manager at Shepherd Care Association of NEA, coordinating our diverse initiatives from our Walnut Ridge office. With a background in social work, he designs and implements programs like the Youth Empowerment Program and Senior Care, ensuring they meet community needs. Robert’s empathetic leadership and hands-on approach create lasting change, empowering individuals with care and respect. His dedication to fostering hope and opportunity makes him a cornerstone of our mission to transform lives.
Dr. Susan Patel
Health Counselor
Dr. Susan Patel is the lead Mental Health Counselor at Shepherd Care Association of NEA, providing expert care at 111 SE Fourth St, Walnut Ridge. With a PhD in psychology, she leads our counseling services, offering compassionate support to clients facing emotional challenges. Susan’s holistic approach and commitment to accessibility ensure that every client feels valued and heard. Her work strengthens our community’s emotional resilience, embodying our mission to care and empowerment through meaningful support.
Join Us in Making a Lasting Difference
At Shepherd Care Association of NEA, every effort, every moment, and every helping hand counts. We believe that by working together—staff, volunteers, donors, and community members—we can create positive, lasting change that uplifts lives and strengthens communities.
Your support empowers us to continue our mission of care, compassion, and empowerment. Whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading awareness, you have the power to be part of this journey. Together, we can build a brighter, more hopeful future for everyone we serve.