JEFFERSON, Ga. — Roxane Rose is stepping down as executive director of Trucker Buddy International and the organization has appointed a search committee to fill the open position.

Under the leadership of Rose, Trucker Buddy has maintained its growth and success.

“We sincerely thank Roxane for her dedication to Trucker Buddy, which is once again demonstrated by her willingness to volunteer in the years to come for the organization,” said Mark Taylor, president of the board of directors and a Trucker Buddy of two classes.

Rose, who joined Trucker Buddy in 2006, intends to spend more time volunteering in her community, but has agreed to stay until a new executive director is appointed to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership for Trucker Buddy.

“Ironically, my passion for education and experience in the nonprofit world, which led me to this position, is what is making me take a step back,” said Rose. “My passion is for animal rescue, and in my local community we are at a pivotal stage with our humane society, on which I serve as a board member. I want to make sure I have time to be a part of this. Further, and equally important, I also see the overall big picture for Trucker Buddy and feel that I will better serve the organization as an active volunteer and supporter.”

Through Trucker Buddy, more than 3,000 professional truck drivers are matched with children in grades 2 to 8 as penpals. Every week drivers share news about their travels with their class and as a result, students improve their skills in reading, writing, geography, mathematics, social studies and history, all while learning in a fun and stimulating way.

Since 1992, Trucker Buddy has helped educate over a million schoolchildren and introduced them to caring, compassionate men and women, professional truck drivers.

“With these changes and growth, Trucker Buddy is poised to serve the children and driver volunteers with the kind of support and exposure the hard-working people of the trucking industry deserve,” said Taylor.

Interested candidates should contact truckerbuddyinternational@yahoo.com. The job description will be posted within the week. To view the position responsibilities, visit: www.truckerbuddy.org and go to the “Info” menu.