Meet The Board

---

Michelle Mothershed is a native of Arkansas and a Mother of three. She is a graduate of Little Rock Central High. After graduating, she attended the University of Central Arkansas but didn’t feel fulfilled. So, she dropped out of college and joined the US Army (active duty). Unfortunately, Michelle suffered injuries and was medically discharged before fulfilling her order to go to Germany. After much physical therapy/rehabilitation, she knew she couldn’t just sit around and do nothing. Through a lot of pain and sleepless nights, going back to college would be her next adventure. She is the proud holder of a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Education. She taught middle and elementary school for 20 years before a disability retirement was necessary.

  In March 2019, Michelle states that God spoke a word to her, but she was disobedient. March 2021 Compassionately Connected for Veterans Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was conceived. They focus on Veterans, their spouses, and their children. It is about serving those in need and meeting them where they are. They also focus on the homeless Veterans and community, donating Compassion Boxes, giving out Compassion care packages to the homeless, serving as supportive services, and hosting food/clothes drives are some of what they do. Her favorite sayings are there is NO LIMIT as to what God can do, and delayed is not denied!  

#PuttingComapassionIntoAction

Karen Mothershed is a lifelong resident of Little Rock, Arkansas. Befitting her eclectic personality, she received an Associate of General Studies and a Bachelor of Liberal Arts from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

Karen spent 31 years in the corporate world, during which time she earned her degrees. In her spare time, she was freelance  photographer and had many other interests. 

Since retiring, Karen has enjoyed traveling, gardening, binge-watching television, and spending time with family and friends. More so, Karen avidly loves animals, especially fur babies. 

Karen appreciates the sacrifices of those who serve and those who served our country and their families who served beside them. 

Being on the Board of Compassionately Connected for Veterans, Inc. has allowed her to hone some old skills and opened new doors.

Portia Dockett, a native of Omaha, NE, has embraced the warmth of Arkansas for most of her life. As the devoted wife of a U.S. Army veteran and a loving mother of five, Portia's journey weaves through the diverse landscapes of family, education, and healthcare.

Her academic pursuits led her to Oakwood University in Huntsville, AL, where she earned a B.S. in Organizational Management. Portia's professional journey in the healthcare field commenced in 2006 as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Driven by a desire for continuous growth, she pursued Phlebotomy in 2008 and became a Medical Assistant in 2012.

Portia's career path has been multifaceted, spanning various healthcare settings. She has contributed her skills in several nursing homes, provided compassionate care through private sitting services, and contributed her expertise to various Chiropractic offices.

Passionate about both healthcare and the well-being of the elderly, Portia took a bold step by establishing Gentle Touch Homecare LLC in Pine Bluff, AR. Her entrepreneurial spirit aimed to provide a nurturing and respectful environment for those in need of homecare services.

Currently, Portia wears multiple hats as a Teacher's Aide and Administrative Assistant at Shiloh Excel Christian School. This role not only allows her to contribute to the education of young minds but also aligns with her aspirations to become a certified Teacher in the future.

With a rich background in healthcare, a heart for caregiving, and a commitment to education, Portia Dockett exemplifies resilience, compassion, and a pursuit of personal and professional excellence. As she continues to impact lives in her community, her journey unfolds with a vision of further growth and learning in the field of education.

Sara holds an Associate of Arts degree in general studies from Jefferson Community College, a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Justice Administration from the University of Louisville, a Master of Arts in Social Justice from Phillips Theological Seminary, and a graduate certificate in diversity and inclusion from the University of Kentucky. Sara is an Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society member and belongs to the Golden Key International Honour Society.  In 2007, the University of Louisville’s Justice Administration Chair nominated Sara for the Presidential Fellows Program. 

For over seven years, Sara served as the Victim’s Advocate for the Louisville (KY) Metro Police Department’s Felony Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault unit. In 2005, Sara relocated to Savannah, GA, as the Installations Victim’s Advocate at Hunter Army Airfield. 

In 2007, Sara relocated to North Little Rock, AR. She has served as the Program Specialist for the Criminal Justice Institute, coordinating national sexual assault training for rural law enforcement personnel. Additionally, Sara has worked as the Family Self-Sufficiency Program Administrator with Pulaski County Housing. In October 2012, Sara accepted the Domestic Violence Project Coordinator position for the Arkansas Commission on Child Abuse, Rape, and Domestic Violence at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences. 

In addition, Sara is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). 

LaTrenia Ceasar, originally from Dermott Arkansas, is a U.S. Army veteran, wife, and mother. She is a graduate of Purdue University Global with a BS in Health and Wellness. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer and Health Coach.

Currently, LaTrenia manages and is part owner of Luxury Auto Spa Ultimate Car Care, LLC.  She is also pursuing her passion as a Health Coach as she is the proud owner of Kinetic Check Fitness, LLC. She operates both businesses in Little Rock, Arkansas, where she has been a resident for over 15 years. 

LaTrenia became a board member in 2023 and decided to dedicate her time, energy and compassion to an organization that is passionate about serving others in a way that will change lives for the better. She is a Christian, a member of The Church of Christ and believes that she lets her Godly light shine through serving others in need.