Decatur Based Nonprofit CaringWorks Appoints New COO

DECATUR, GA — A Decatur-based non-profit agency that is working to end homelessness throughout metro Atlanta, recently announced the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer. Shamika Martin Walls joins CaringWorks from the Morehouse School of Medicine, where she served as director of administration and finance.

She previously served as director of administrative operations for the Aiken-Barnwell Mental Health Center in South Carolina. In both roles, Walls developed and managed the operating budget and provided high-level administrative leadership.

As COO, Walls will provide senior leadership, direction, operational management and oversight.

"In addition to a passion for the people we serve, Ms. Walls brings significant experience in administrative operations, finance and human services to CaringWorks," said Carol Collard, Ph.D., president, and CEO, CaringWorks. "For CaringWorks, her arrival signals an important milestone in the agency's increased focus on improving operational efficiency and effectiveness while recognizing the importance of housing to healthcare."

In her new position, Walls will oversee strategic plan development, annual operations, human resources and information technology for the nonprofit. It’s is one of the largest providers of supportive housing in the Greater Atlanta area, serving hundreds of individuals and families each year.

“I’m excited to join the team at CaringWorks and the opportunity to combine my operational leadership experience with my passion for behavioral healthcare and serving the community,” said Walls.

Walls holds a Doctor of Philosophy in health services policy and management from the University of South Carolina, a Master in Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina, and a Bachelor of Arts in accounting from Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She also completed post-baccalaureate work in medical studies with an emphasis in psychology from Georgia State University.

Learn more about CaringWorks online.