Meet The Supportive Sales Associates at Eagle's Trace

When prospective residents visit the Sales Center at Eagle's Trace, an Erickson Senior Living community in West Houston, Tex., they can expect a warm welcome from Senior Sales Associate Carlens Bell and Sales Associate Shelby Contreras.

Although Bell and Contreras have different backgrounds, they are both passionate about helping retirees learn more about the community's vibrant, worry-free lifestyle and streamlining the moving process.

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"Without the worries of home maintenance, our residents have more time to make new friends, pursue hobbies, and participate in activities," explains Bell. "Moving here is an opportunity to make the most of your retirement."

"A lot of people say we were so impactful during this life decision, and we did it in a caring way," adds Contreras. "I think that's my favorite part of working here with the sales team--supporting seniors as they make this exciting transition."

'Sense of purpose'

Bell, who was born in Haiti and raised in North Miami, Fla., earned a full scholarship to Florida International University, where he completed a bachelor's degree in psychology.

"I chose psychology because I've always been drawn to understanding people--what matters to them, what comforts them, and what helps them feel supported," he says. "I think that curiosity continues to influence the way I show up for prospective residents today."

After earning his degree, Bell worked in customer service and relationship-focused roles, including a professional travel counselor.

It was a chance encounter that led Bell to pursue a role at Eagle's Trace. When a family member working at Eagle's Trace needed a ride, he gladly offered. Upon arriving at the community, he felt a "sense of purpose."

"I thought to myself, 'One day, I want to be a part of this,'" he recalls.

In 2024, Bell applied for the sales associate role and was hired. "Even on my first day, I could tell that this job was going to be different from my other work experiences," he says. "The warmth of the community, the way residents and staff speak to one another, really resonated with me. There's a genuine commitment to treating people with compassion here."

Bell was promoted to senior sales associate in January 2026.

Fostering relationships

Like Bell, Contreras' path to Eagle's Trace was not a traditional one.

Contreras, who grew up in Lake Charles, La., attended Louisiana State University. She lived in Colorado and Florida before returning to Houston in 2020 to be near family. While attending church in Houston, she ran into an Eagle's Trace employee, who recommended an open front desk position, which Contreras applied for.

"Working at the front desk of each clubhouse, I became very familiar with the community," she explains. "But what I enjoyed most was interacting with residents."

When another sales associate role opened in May 2025, she applied and was hired. "My firsthand knowledge of the community really helps me connect with prospective residents considering a move to Eagle's Trace," she says. "I'm grateful for that experience."

A supportive team

Bell and Contreras are responsible for meeting with prospective residents who visit the Sales Center, supporting future residents through the reservation and move-in process, and providing as much information as possible so people feel informed.

"My goal is to make the process clear and provide lots of support so incoming residents know that they have a team of experts they can rely on," Bell says.

"I think of our job as walking with seniors through this time in their lives," Contreras says. "I try to be intentional about being present with how they're feeling in the moment."

Contreras notes that the sales team acknowledges that many incoming residents are making the move from a house they may have lived in for decades.

"We understand that some people need to process this move," she explains. "We're going to be with you and offer help each step of the way. That is something I'm passionate about!"

Stop by!

As a result of their dedication and compassion, Bell and Contreras have helped dozens of retirees make a seamless move to Eagle's Trace.

"Carlens and Shelby are two terrific team members who really reflect the caring nature of our whole sales team," says Sales Director Jon David. "I encourage all prospective residents to stop in and meet with Carlens and Shelby."

When they're not at Eagle's Trace, both Bell and Contreras enjoy spending time with family.

"I enjoy staying active and spending time with my son," Bell says. "Being a father grounds me and motivates me to be the best version of myself."

"I love spending time with my two daughters as well as being outside in nature and reading a good book," Contreras says.

To learn more about independent senior living, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and much more.

By Susan Ingram