Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County announced on November 2 that Mitchell Ellis will serve as the organization's interim chief executive officer. Ellis, who is 38 years old, previously served on the nonprofit's board of directors starting in 2024 and was responsible for leading its security initiatives. The faith-based organization provides various services to individuals experiencing homelessness in the region.
According to a statement from Caroline Samis, the board chair, the appointment was unanimous. Samis noted that Ellis brings a unique perspective to the role through his background as both a business owner and a law enforcement officer. She expressed the board's gratitude for his willingness to step in during this transition period and emphasized their commitment to continuing the important work the mission has undertaken for the community.
Ellis stated that his primary goal is to provide short-term stability to the organization while the board seeks a permanent leader. He anticipates serving in his current interim capacity for a period of 90 to 180 days. He has not yet determined whether he would accept the position if it were offered on a long-term basis.
The leadership change follows the departure of Charles M. Wolford II, who mutually agreed to part ways with the organization in September. Wolford had joined the mission in 2024, assuming the role after previous leader Don Shisler transitioned into a CEO emeritus position for a two-year term. The Fort Worth Report was unable to reach Wolford for comment prior to the publication of this story.
Before his current role, Ellis spent 13 years with the Fort Worth Police Department. His career in law enforcement included work as a patrol officer in a tactical unit and four years as a detective in the Crimes Against Children Unit. During this time, he collaborated closely with the Alliance for Children of Tarrant County, the District Attorney's office, and Cook Children's Hospital.
After leaving law enforcement, Ellis and his wife became entrepreneurs. They initially engaged in the short-term rental market through Airbnb and later established La Palmilla Texas Hotel, a boutique resort and wedding venue located in Glen Rose. Ellis also held executive leadership positions at two pipeline services companies.
Ellis is a member of Paradox Church in downtown Fort Worth. The church maintains partner ministries with The Net, Fort Worth Pregnancy Center, and the DASH Network. Ellis expressed hope that Paradox Church and Union Gospel Mission could collaborate in the future.
Reflecting on his time on the board, Ellis described the organization as a place where its stated mission is visibly practiced. He called the opportunity to lead the organization, which has a history of 138 years, a significant honor. He viewed the mission as a beacon of hope for individuals facing difficult circumstances and stated that his focus is on continuing that legacy.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the nonprofit as it navigates its leadership transition. The board remains focused on ensuring the continuity of services provided to the homeless population in Tarrant County while working to find a permanent chief executive.
