About Us
Meet Our Leadership
Welcome to Rockford Rescue Mission
A Legacy of Leadership: Sherry Pitney to Transition from Role as Executive Director
After 42 years of service to Rockford Rescue Mission, including the last 24 years as Executive Director, I have made the difficult decision to retire as CEO, effective July 2025. This decision follows much prayer, reflection, and counsel, as the Mission has been central to my life’s calling. Serving alongside our guests, residents, and staff has been an incredible privilege, and I consider you, our supporters, to be family. While stepping down as CEO will be a significant transition, I believe it’s the right moment for new leadership to guide the Mission into its next chapter.
I’m honored to share that I will continue to contribute as President Emerita, focusing on donor relationships, special projects, and preserving the Mission’s legacy. I remain deeply committed to the ongoing impact of this ministry and look forward to sharing the powerful stories of lives transformed. Please join me in prayer as our Board of Directors conducts a search for the next leader who will guide Rockford Rescue Mission into a hopeful and impactful future. Your continued support is vital as we stay dedicated to moving people from homelessness and despair to wholeness in Jesus’ name.
Partners in Hope,
Sherry Pitney, CEO
Our Leadership Team
Our Board of Directors
Ann Dittmar | Chair
Retired: Attorney
Warren Slabaugh | Vice Chair
President: Heartwood Creations
Doug Warren | Treasurer
Trust Officer: Midland States Bank
Noel Sterett | Secretary
Senior Counsel: Alliance Defending Freedom
Wendy Barthel
Payroll Specialist: Rockford Public Schools
Dr. Terry Buzzard
Physician: Physicians Immediate Care
Tim Clauson
Retired: Kids Around the World
Renade Cossey
Retired: Rockford Rescue Mission Program Director
Robert Orr
Retired: CPA & Tax Consultant
Council of Elders
Rev. Robert David Aldridge
Retired Presbyterian Pastor
Rev. Peder Carlson
Retired Presbyterian Pastor
Pastor Andrew Hall
Pastor, The Refuge Church / HR Professional
Rev. Gordon E. Hanstad
Retired Baptist General Conference Pastor
Mark Hunter
Regional Health Officer, Ill. Dept. of Public Health
Pastor Lee McClanathan
Retired Pastor, Northeast Christian Church
Richard Todd
CEO: Todd Transit
