Foundation
PFK Shield & Shelter was born from a legacy of faith, protection, and perseverance rooted in Southeast Arkansas. Founded by siblings who were raised in the region PFK now serves, the organization reflects a lifelong connection to the community and a commitment to building opportunity where it is needed most.
The vision of PFK is deeply influenced by five strong grandmothers, Emit, Julia, Artelia, Emma, and Geraldine, whose lives model faith, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Their example continues to shape the belief that legacy is not only inherited, but built and carried forward through service and leadership.
PFK is grounded in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a deep belief that faith calls us to protect the vulnerable, restore dignity, and create pathways to opportunity. The organization’s name and mission are inspired by Psalm 91, which speaks to protection, refuge, and remaining anchored in hope during adversity.
PFK serves all people regardless of faith while remaining grounded in faith based values of protection, dignity, and hope.
Shield represents protection, advocacy, and buffering individuals and families from forces that threaten stability and opportunity. Shelter represents a place of rest, restoration, and growth where people can rebuild and move forward.
Southeast Arkansas is one of the most economically distressed regions in the state and nation. PFK was created by someone who grew up in the region PFK now serves, with the purpose of investing back into communities that have historically been overlooked.
Mission
Born from the promises of Psalm 91, PFK Shield & Shelter broadens vision for youth and families through transformative exposure and expanded access, breaking generational limitations and building lasting legacy grounded in our inheritance of faith, hard work, and unity.
Vision
Thriving families who see past their circumstances, rise beyond generational limitations, and build legacies without limits.
About the Founder
Gwendolyn Middleton-Rockett is the founder of PFK Shield & Shelter and a lifelong advocate for youth and families. She is a descendant of African American families from Southeast Arkansas and was shaped by the influence and guidance of five strong grandmothers whose lives reflected faith in Christ, commitment to family, and the value of hard work. Through their example, she developed her own personal relationship with Christ and a deep belief that legacy is not only inherited, but built and carried forward.
Gwendolyn holds three Master’s degrees: a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management, a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership, and a Master of Public Administration from Webster University, as well as a Bachelor of Science from the University of Central Arkansas. She brings more than 15 years of professional experience in education and higher education, with expertise in human resources, operations management in both nonprofit and for-profit settings, and grant writing.
Growing up in the same communities that PFK Shield & Shelter serves, Gwendolyn understands firsthand the challenges many youth face and the limits that can be placed on what they believe is possible. Her journey reflects a determination to beat the odds and create opportunities so that youth and families can see possibilities beyond the limits of their circumstances.