04/23/2026
It's hard to put into words what an honor it's been to work with Rucker L. Preston at Family Promise of Bell County these past 6.5 years (including one as fellow board members). Under his leadership, we built the Promise House (family shelter) and the Promise Homes (transitional housing), expanded our team, and more than tripled our operating budget. He's been an exceptional organizational leader and, more importantly, he has a heart for service.
If you've been to one of my governance trainings and heard me talk about how a constructive Executive Director-Board Chair partnership contributes to the organization's culture and impact, know that I'm drawing on my 4 years working with Rucker. He's not only been an asset to our organization, but an influential leader within the Family Promise network. While I hate to see him go, I'm excited to see him make an even bigger impact across the City of Temple, Texas - City Government in his new role as Director of Housing and Community Services.
Our board is currently searching for an experienced executive with a strong background in fundraising, relationship-building, and organizational management to lead Family Promise of Bell County in its next chapter. If you know someone who may fit the bill, check out the job posting (link in comments).
We'll miss you, Rucker! Congratulations on the new position and thanks for everything you've done for our organization, our families, and our community over the last 6.5 years! The City is so lucky to have you.
It’s a bittersweet day as Family Promise of Bell County begins its search for the next Executive Director as Rucker Preston prepares to step into a new role as the Director of Housing and Community Development for the City of Temple. After five and a half years of dedicated leadership, Rucker leaves behind a remarkable legacy of growth, innovation, and community impact. He strengthened our organization’s mission serving families experiencing homelessness and housing instability, expanded community partnerships, increased organizational capacity, and enhanced the scope of services available to families in Bell County. Specifically, Rucker led us through two capital campaigns without using any public tax dollars and leaves the organization without any debt.
“Everyone at Family Promise is extremely grateful for all that Rucker has accomplished during his tenure as Executive Director. While we're sad to see him go, we're very happy for his continued dedication to serve our community,” said Board President, Dayspring Fowler. “His passion for our mission, his commitment to people, and his vision for stronger communities have helped our community grow in extraordinary ways. As an organization, we're excited about what the future holds, as we continue to serve families facing homelessness while searching for the next Executive Director.”
“It has been one of the highest honors of my career to serve Family Promise of Bell County,” said Preston. “I am deeply grateful for the churches, families, staff, Board of Directors, volunteers, and community partners who make this mission possible every day. Family Promise will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am excited to continue serving our community in this new capacity and role with the City of Temple.”
We invite everyone to say thank you to Rucker for his years of service and leadership during a come and go reception to be held on Tuesday, May 5th from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Family Promise of Bell County.
