The Connection Homeless Shelter has a new leader.

The Connection Board of Directors announced Tuesday that Neal Criddle has been hired as the Executive Director of the Shelter.

Criddle has worked as an Area Manager at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center since 2006, and prior to that, was an Officer with the North Platte Police Department.

Criddle says that he is excited for the future of the Shelter, but knows that there will be challenges with all the changes occurring in Washington.

Additionally, Criddle said, “I truly feel that the Shelter remains a viable resource to the community, and I’m confident that the community will continue to support this ministry as they have for many years.  I promise that I will do everything I can to help people in need and provide them with the resources they need.”

Connection Board President Jim Nelson issued a statement saying, “”The Connection is thrilled to have Neal Criddle, a dedicated local leader, as the new Executive Director of the Connection Homeless Shelter.  Neal is uniquely qualified to lead the way by working with and galvanizing the efforts of the Connection Board, our partners, and community leaders to positively impact the cause of helping the homeless in our region.”

Criddle replaces Roy Lawton who resigned from the position in late October of 2012.