07/01/2026
The Night's Shield Welcomes Dr. Tara Chambers as Executive Director and Promotes Sarah Sanders to Executive Program Director
The Board of Directors of The Night's Shield is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Tara Chambers as Executive Director and the promotion of Sarah Sanders to Executive Program Director. Together, they bring exceptional leadership, compassion, and experience that will guide the organization into its next chapter of serving youth and families throughout Southern Illinois.
Dr. Chambers earned her Ph.D. in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior, specializing in research on desensitization and the effects of both direct and vicarious exposure to trauma. She also holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a bachelor's degree in Psychology, and an associate degree with a specialization in Psychology.
A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Sexual Offender Treatment Provider, and Licensed Sexual Offender Evaluator, Dr. Chambers has dedicated her career to serving victims, offenders, and families. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Fig & Vine, a nonprofit mental health group practice, and serves as President of a nonprofit homeless coalition board. She also previously made history as the first woman and youngest person elected to the West Frankfort City Council, where she continues to live and serve her community.
Sarah Sanders has been a dedicated member of The Night's Shield team since June 2019. She began as a Midnight Shift Direct Care Worker and quickly advanced through a series of leadership positions, including Evening Shift Lead, Child Care Supervisor, Case Manager for the Homeless Youth Program, Lead Case Manager, and Program Director of Family and Youth Services. In May 2026, she was promoted to Executive Program Director.
Having served in nearly every program within The Night's Shield, Sarah brings extensive knowledge of the organization's operations and an unwavering commitment to the youth and families it serves.
"Dr. Chambers and Sarah have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to children and families in our region," said Board President Laurie Taylor. "Their combined experience, vision, and passion make them the ideal team to lead The Night's Shield into its next chapter of growth and service. The Board has tremendous confidence in their leadership."
Together, Dr. Chambers and Sarah Sanders will continue advancing The Night's Shield's mission while strengthening partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies, expanding services, and creating greater opportunities to provide hope, healing, and stability for vulnerable youth and families throughout Southern Illinois.
About The Night's Shield
Founded in 2009, The Night's Shield is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for youth in crisis throughout Southern Illinois. Since opening its doors, the organization has provided more than 22,000 nights of shelter and served over 1,700 youth through emergency shelter, transitional housing, case management, life-skills education, and family support services.
The Night's Shield is committed to empowering young people by providing safety, stability, and the resources they need to build healthy, productive futures. Through collaboration with community partners and a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers, the organization continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of youth and families across the region.
