My name is Rhonda James Woolard, and I founded RJW Guiding Services LLC in June 2025 as an extension of my lifelong mission: to lead with purpose, empower others through guidance, and create lasting impact through service, mentorship, and storytelling.

I am also the proud author of A Catalyst Change, published in November 2024—a project born from a deep desire to spark healing, inspire growth, and give voice to lived experiences that matter.

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I was born and raised in Martin County, North Carolina, and my roots run deep through the Free Union and Pineywoods communities in Jamesville—descendants who were never enslaved. My early education began at Fourth Street School in Plymouth, NC, and continued at Jamesville Elementary and Williamston Junior High. I’m a proud graduate of Williamston High School, Class of 1988—a TIGER for life! I went on to earn both my Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work from East Carolina University.

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With over 20 years of Child Welfare experience, I’ve dedicated my career to protecting children, supporting families, and building the next generation of social work professionals. From a Social Work Intern to becoming the first African American Director of Social Services in Washington County, NC, I’ve worked every step with integrity, purpose, and compassion.

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Today, I serve as a Child Welfare Product Owner for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), contributing to the design and delivery of a statewide case management system that supports all 100 North Carolina counties.

Throughout my life, I have remained committed to serving my community. My work spans across boards, councils, and organizations such as:
♦ Martin County NAACP
♦ E.J. Hayes Alumni Association Board
♦ Williamston Satellite Rotary Club
♦ Lions Clubs of Williamston & Plymouth
♦ North Carolina Child Welfare Supervisor Advisory Group
♦ State Employees Association of North Carolina – District 42
♦ North Carolina Children’s Services Committee

♦ Survivors With A Testimony Inc

♦ Queen Fix Your Crown Woman's  Empowerment
♦ And many more…

My achievements include being a Governor’s Excellence Award nominee, receiving the ECU School of Social Work Rising Star Alumni Award (2015), and being honored as a North Carolina Child Welfare Innovative Practice Scholar (2011). Yet, my greatest legacy isn’t in awards—it's in the lives touched, the stories told, and the change sparked by work I may never fully see.

On a personal note, I’ve been blessed with a loving partner of 28 years and husband of 18 years, Richard Lewis Woolard. I’m the proud mother of Antony and Michael Sherrod, and grandmother to Solomon Little, who I call the very best version of me.

At RJW Guiding Services LLC, everything I do is built on faith, experience, and a deep commitment to uplift others. If you're ready to grow, heal, and lead—let’s take the next step together.