After 20 years of leadership at The Parenting Center, executive director Barbara Lamsens will retire, effective Sept. 30.
Paul Gravley, chief development officer at Arlington-based Helping Restore Ability, will succeed Lamsens.
The Parenting Center, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, helps prevent child abuse and neglect by promoting positive parenting in Tarrant County.
“Starting today, I will be transitioning leadership of The Parenting Center to the organization’s new executive director, Paul Gravley,” said Lamsens. “Paul was selected through a comprehensive search by board members, staff and key volunteers. I’m confident he will bring a strong vision and exceptional management to our excellent team that will continue to seamlessly serve our 15,000 clients annually, from all income levels and social groups across Tarrant County and the surrounding areas.”
Gravley has more than 16 years in the nonprofit sector, serving in a variety of leadership positions. An accomplished public speaker, Gravley has been featured across the country on topics from leadership development to public communication.
Lamsens, who has 35 years of nonprofit service to the Fort Worth area, will be honored by Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price at the organization’s anniversary/fundraising gala on Sept. 17. Price also will honor the founding agency, Junior League of Fort Worth, for its ongoing support of The Parenting Center.
The Parenting Guidance Center was formed in 1975 from a collaborative effort of the Sid W. Richardson Foundation, the Junior League of Fort Worth and the state of Texas to provide services to parents, caregivers, children, families and people in need.