WINNIPEG -- A Winnipeg community organization announced it has a new interim executive director.

The Bear Clan announced late Friday that Kevin Walker has been appointed interim executive director, effective immediately. He replaces James Favel, one of the founders of the organization.

“Bear Clan is proud to appoint Kevin Walker as interim executive director,” said board chairperson Shaneen Robinson-Desjarlais in a statement. “He walks several times a week with the patrols. He captures their activities on our Facebook page so our community learns about the important work our staff and volunteers do. He fundraises. Kevin is at the heart of our community — he lives and breathes our community-centric approach to crime prevention, relationship building, neighbourhood safety, solidarity and belonging. We are excited to see him bring these insights and experiences to our community of staff and volunteers.”

In an interview with CTV News, Robinson-Desjarlais explained why the change was made.

"There's been some things going on, a movement, and we are just looking towards positive change and moving forward as an organization," she said.

She added they were looking to have some new vision for the organization.

Robinson-Desjarlais was asked if Favel was part of the decision to name Walker the interim executive director and she said she couldn't comment, other than to say Favel is no longer an employee of the Bear Clan.

"I want to wish Mr. Favel well in his future endeavours and thank him for the years that he did put in for Bear Clan Patrol Inc. As I said, this organization is far greater than one person, and we just wish James well on his journey."

According to a news release from the Bear Clan, Favel has been involved with the organization for six years.

CTV News reached out to Favel and he said he wasn't prepared to make a statement at this time.

- With files from CTV's Charles Lefebvre and Rachel CrowSpreadingWings