Vapor Centers & Regional Offices
Vapor Thrift Stores
Total
18
131
56
205
0
384
40
424
32
41
47
120
Vapor HQ
Full Time
Part Time
Volunteers
Total
138
749
50
557
OUR TEAM
Vapor Ministries' footprint spans four countries impacting tens of thousands of people. It takes a diverse team of dedicated professionals locking shields with a coalition of church, business, and individual partners to meet needs, feed souls, and elevate God in some of the most difficult places on earth. A sampling of our global team members is shown below. From our U.S. team members and volunteers to the indigenous men and women living out the mission at our centers, we thank God for bringing people together for His glory and the good of those we serve.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kenneth H. Polk, CPA, CFP - Board Chairman
Founder & CEO - Arlington Family Offices
Ken Polk is the Founder and CEO of Arlington, one of its industry’s most uniquely built family offices, with over $10B in assets under stewardship. Arlington’s unique approach centers on creating value beyond money and purpose beyond generations. He authored The Spirit of Wealth Preservation, revealing the 3 Laws of Preservation and providing insight into the Arlington story path that led to its transformational stewardship ownership model. Ken Polk entered the wealth management industry by way of Lipscomb University and Deloitte. At the age of twenty-five, Ken founded Arlington and today remains focused on an objective to help others build a better family, a better business, and, ultimately, a better society. Ken lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife, Ashley. They have four children.
Micah McElveen - Executive Director
Founder & CEO - Vapor Ministries
In 1995, Micah learned life was a Vapor when he broke his neck in a near-fatal surfing accident. God also opened his eyes to purpose. Not able to play football, he picked up soccer and went on to play in College, where he earned a degree in Intercultural Studies. There Micah met his bride and a shared passion to serve the poor and reach the lost emerged. In graduate school, he traveled to Africa and was broken by extreme poverty. Awakened by the experience, a vision to alleviate poverty and multiply disciples birthed Vapor Ministries. He is a follower of Jesus, a husband to Audrey, and a father to Arrow and Given. Author of, “Dying For Purpose,” Micah speaks across the country inspiring people to make a difference while providing leadership for Vapor Ministries.
Dr. Adrianne Johnson Ross
CEO & President - The University of Vermont Health Network - Home Health & Hospice
Adrianne Johnson Ross is a native of Orlando, Fla., where she gained her initial experience in the home health field, earned a Master of Science in Health Administration (MHA) from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA. Adrianne is currently the CEO at The UVM Health Network-Home Health and Hospice. She is passionate about Vapor Ministries’ desire to serve the core needs of those in underserved regions. Her desire is to honor God’s call to love by serving on the Vapor Ministries Board of Directors.
Coby Orr
President - Good Labor Jobs
Originally from San Antonio, TX, Coby has been based in Birmingham, AL, since 2017. A University of Alabama graduate in Corporate Finances and Investment Management, Coby began his career in the cleaning industry and quickly ascended from a ServiceMaster franchisee to a National Account Sales Manager. In 1997, he co-founded Diversified Maintenance Systems, Inc., a major janitorial service company, which he sold to Frontenac Equity Group in 2010. Coby now focuses on consulting and coaching, leveraging his extensive experience in finance, service, and maintenance. His current ventures include private equity and capital solutions through Intuitive Capital Partners, janitorial services via Intuitive Services Group, and staffing through Good Labor Jobs. He is also involved in philanthropic efforts such as Score International, Carrollwood Day School, and Biltmore Baptist Church.
Amy Hanks
CEO & President - Beverly-Hanks Mortgage Services
With over two decades in Mortgage Lending, Amy began her journey as a Loan Officer at a local community bank, eventually founding Beverly-Hanks Mortgage Services in 2000. She proudly became its first Loan Officer and now serves as CEO & President. Amy cherishes assisting clients in making local financing choices for their new homes. Western North Carolina's diverse people and captivating four-season landscape hold her heart. She raised her family there and partnered with her husband, Neal, who leads Beverly-Hanks Realtors. They are committed to working, playing, and giving big in Western North Carolina.
Leslie Baldwin
SPHR - First Citizens Bank
Leslie Baldwin is a gifted senior HR professional who loves adding value to people's lives professionally and spiritually. Since graduating from Metropolitan State University, her twenty-year career has spanned organizations such as Synovus, Lawson Software, and Tires Plus, as well as a 6-year run as the CEO of her own consulting firm. She specializes in guiding executives in best employment practices and currently serves as a Sr. HR Advisor for First Citizens Bank. She is married to Nelson E. Baldwin Jr. and they live in Alpharetta, GA where they both serve in marketplace ministry and enjoy spending time with family, especially their beautiful granddaughter, Ana.
John Wright
Co-Founder & CEO - ShearWorx
John, his wife, Sarah, and their children live in Birmingham, AL. Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, John attended The University of Georgia where he studied finance and real estate. In 2010, John co-founded Amwaste, a waste management company, which he exited in 2019. Later that year, John co-founded and still serves as CEO of ShearWorx, a scrap metal processing and logistics company that serves steel mills and metal processing facilities nationally. John and his family attend Church of the Highlands and love to serve regularly. John has a passion for start-ups, adventure, aviation, the outdoors, and helping others live out their God-given purpose in the marketplace.
Bryson Kessler
Founder & CEO - Clover & Bee
Bryson is a wife, mom, and chronic entrepreneur. She grew up on a farm in Montgomery, AL, where she learned the value of hard work. At 17, her mom passed away after a battle with cancer. Seeing the lives her mom touched simply by following God’s call on her life inspired Bryson to use her life to make a difference as well. After moving to Birmingham, AL, she pursued her lifelong dream of opening a boutique. Clover + Bee is almost 20 years old. Bryson recently won “Retailer of the Year” in recognition of her commitment to the community and excellence in retail. She has met some amazing women with beautifully hard stories, which she shares through her podcast, Honey For Your Heart, hoping to create a sisterhood as sweet as honey! Bryson is married to Todd, and they have four children.
BOARD OF ADVISORS
David Pursell
Founder & CEO - Pursell Farms
After a successful career in the family fertilizer business, which was sold in 2006, David is now CEO and Chief “Visionary” of Pursell Farms. The 3200 acre Pursell Farms Resort, which includes FarmLinks Golf Club and the Orvis Shooting Grounds, is also home to Vapor Ministries headquarters. David and his wife Ellen have six children and four grandchildren. They love the Lord, pursue Him as a family, and continually seek to intentionally invest themselves in eternally fruitful work. The Pursells met Micah and Audrey in 2007, and have formed a lasting friendship, as well as an enduring partnership with Vapor Ministries.
Ryan Stubbs
Director of Organizational Development - Escalante Golf
Ryan pursues a life dedicated to serving others through business and ministry. She is a future fourth-generation owner of McDonald Automotive Group in Denver, CO, and a second-generation partner in Escalante Golf, a boutique owner and operator of luxury golf properties. Ryan graduated with a Bachelor of Business at Belmont University and earned her MBA at William & Mary. As Director of Organizational Development at Escalante Golf, Ryan focuses on enhancing the impact of the company’s work through the people, resources, and opportunities they’ve been blessed to steward. She is passionate about enabling individuals and organizations to use their gifts to multiply God’s Kingdom.
Dennis Ross
Founder & CEO - Book Ambition Inc.
As the founder of Book Ambition Inc., Dennis Ross serves authors and corporations from Wall Street to Silicon Valley. For them, he creates compelling stories used to sell their products and services. As a ghostwriter for thought-leaders, Dennis has written more than 15 books from business to law, self-help to biographies. His innovative approach to story creation is based on a renaissance professional history. One that extends from writing for the best-selling R & B group of all time, Boyz II Men, to heading an equity derivatives division of a biotech pharmaceutical hedge fund. Dennis has a BA in Speech/Rhetoric from Georgia State University and resides in Atlanta, Georgia.
Shawn Lovejoy
Founder & CEO - Courage to Lead, Birmingham
Shawn Lovejoy is Founder & CEO of CourageToLead.com. His heart beats for coaching leaders. Shawn has been a successful real estate developer, a church planter, megachurch pastor, and now CEO of a fast-growing coaching and consulting organization. He specializes in leadership, personal growth, and organizational health, and helping leaders create momentum. Shawn is the host of The CourageToLead Podcast with Shawn Lovejoy and the author of several books including; Measuring Success, Leading Yourself To The Next Level, and Be Mean About The Vision. Shawn has been married for 25 years to his best friend Tricia and they have three children.
William White
CEO - Summer Classics and Gabriella White
William White is the CEO of Summer Classics & Gabriella White, LLC, a luxury indoor and outdoor furniture company that has seen record growth over the past two years. Before becoming President of the company, he developed the indoor furniture line, Gabby, while serving as CMO of both brands. He led Gabby to rank as one of the Top 1,000 fastest-growing companies in America. Prior to joining Gabriella White, LLC, White served as a product manager for Compass Bank and sales specialist for BASF. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from The University of Colorado and an MBA from The University of Alabama. He is a dedicated husband and father of three.
Brent Fielder
3rd Generation Owner & Board Member - Chick-fil-A
Brent and his wife, Angela, are third-generation members of Chick-fil-A's Cathy Family, and they live in Atlanta with their four children. Brent was formerly the Owner/Operator of a Chick-fil-A Franchise in Birmingham. He loves to share Christ's love locally and internationally. Brent serves on the board of directors of Chick-Fil-A, the board of advisors for Impact 360 Institute, and the board of overseers for Samford University. He is passionate about influencing the next generation and has over ten years of experience leading non-profit ministries to equip and develop young leaders.
John Mejia
Founder & CEO - Providence Investments
John Mejia is the founder and CEO of Providence Investments, a multifamily investments and development firm. John currently leads the company's strategic apartment investments acquisition and development platform throughout the US.
John attended Syracuse University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. Upon graduating from S.U., John was commissioned as an Officer in the United States Navy and later became an airline pilot for US Airways. John has been a guest speaker at Auburn University Harbert College of Business and the University of Alabama Manderson Graduate School of Business. He is also fluent in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. One of John’s favorite pastimes is spending time with his wife Kristi and two daughters.
Brant McDuffie
Managing Director & Head of Rates - Stifel
Brant is a Managing Director and Head of Rates & Securitized Products Group within the Fixed Income Capital Markets platform at Stifel, Nicholas, Inc. He oversees the firm’s institutional fixed income brokerage business serving middle-market depositories, insurance companies & money managers across the country. Brant resides in Birmingham with his wife, Sally, and their three boys. Brant is involved with a number of civic service organizations as well as his local church. He currently serves on the Board of Advisors for Highlands College as well as Christ Health Center, United States Israel Education Association, Alabama Policy Institute and the True Vine Foundation.
BOARD OF PASTORS
Pastor Chris Hodges
Senior Pastor - Church of the Highlands
In 2001 Chris Hodges founded Church of the Highlands, now known as one of the largest churches in the U.S. with over 60,000 members and 23 campuses. Chris remains the senior pastor and Chancellor of Highlands College, a ministry training school that has trained and launched hundreds of students into full-time ministry careers all over the world. Chris has a deep passion for developing leaders and planting life-giving churches. He co-founded ARC (Association of Related Churches), which has launched hundreds of churches across the United States and world. He continues to serve these churches and leaders through making all of Highlands Resources available at no cost. He speaks at conferences worldwide and is a New York Times best-selling author of Fresh Air, Four Cups, The Daniel Dilemma, What’s Next?, Out of the Cave, and Pray First. Chris and his wife, Tammy, have five children and 8 grandchildren and live in Birmingham, Alabama where they still root for the LSU Tigers.
Pastor John Siebeling
Senior Pastor - The Life Church
John and Leslie Siebeling are the founders and senior pastors of The Life Church, a thriving, diverse body of believers committed to serving people, developing leaders, and impacting generations. John and Leslie consider it one of their greatest honors to pastor The Life Church and the thousands of people who call it their church home. In addition to leading The Life Church, John has authored several books and various resources designed to help grow people and build the Church around the world. John and Leslie also lead the Make Room Pastors Network, an environment designed to coach and equip other pastors and leaders to build healthy churches and reach more people. John and Leslie approach life with faith and optimism about the future and have two amazing children, Anna and Mark.
Pastor Dave Patterson
Senior Pastor - The Father's House
Dave and Donna Patterson are the Lead and Founding Pastors of The Father’s House in Northern California, where the church community started with 8 people, in the living room, and is currently 7,500 people in 5 locations. Pastors Dave and Donna have over 30 years’ experience in leading worship, teaching, and pastoring. They also lead The Father’s House Network (related Churches) and speak at conferences nationally and internationally. Their passion is to see people encounter the reality of God and the Body of Christ to experience new levels of God’s presence through worship.
Pastor Wayne Francis
Senior Pastor - The Life Church NYC
Wayne and his wife started Authentic Church in 2010 and recently merged with The Life Church, a multi-site, multi-national church based in TN, founded by Sr. Pastors John + Leslie Siebeling. Wayne now serves as Lead Pastor of its New York location. He founded The King’s Cellar- an organization committed to helping men navigate midlife successfully. He is also a chaplain for The Brooklyn Nets. Wayne co-authored “GOD AND RACE: A Guide for Moving Beyond Black Fists and White Knuckles” and is co-host of the podcast “Leadership in Black and White.” Wayne and his wife of 24 years, Classy, have two teenage daughters. He’s a cyclist, but is most proud of being in his mid-forties and still well able to drop it like it’s hot on any dance floor!
Pastor Danny Anderson
Senior Pastor - Emmanuel Church
Danny Anderson has served as Lead Pastor of Emmanuel Church since 2006, having served as Emmanuel's High School Pastor for six years prior. After years of growth and seeing more and more people have their lives transformed by Jesus, Emmanuel became a multi-site church in 2013—one church with multiple locations throughout the state of Indiana as well as smaller “microsites” in Indiana and Florida. The church also has a thriving community of people who call its online campus home. As Lead Pastor, Danny is the primary communicator for Emmanuel's weekend messages. He also leads the Staff Leadership Team (Executive Team). An avid reader, Danny also enjoys shooting hoops in his limited free time, going on hikes, and spending time with his wife Jackie, their three children, Andrew, Beau, and Ruby, and dogs, Buddy and Toby.
Pastor Quovadis Marshall
Senior Pastor - Hope City Church, Waterloo
Pastor Q, as he is called by his church, is a native of Waterloo, Iowa. Pastor Q and his wife, Angela, and a small group of friends, planted Hope City Church in the fall of 2015 to help people know God, find freedom, and make a difference. Today, Hope City Church is a fast-growing, multi-ethnic, multi-site church in Iowa’s Cedar Valley. For multiple years, Hope City has been recognized as one of the 100 fastest-growing churches in America by Outreach Magazine. Pastor Q is a coach to Pastors and Leaders and works very closely with government on issues related to crime and incarceration. Pastor Q and his wife have two children.
Pastor Jason Hitte
Senior Pastor - The Lakeside Church
Jason Hitte, Sr. is the founder and Lead Pastor of the Lakeside Church in Oakland, Florida. Starting as a new church plant with a handful of families, Lakeside Church has now become one of the fastest-growing multicultural, multigenerational churches in the Greater Orlando area. In 2023, Outreach Magazine named Lakeside the 6th fastest-growing church in the nation, with over 3 thousand people engaging in our weekly services. To continue to expand the gospel, Pastor Jason’s dynamic messages of grace and truth are featured on a local Christian broadcasting network that serves 3.8 million people in 9 counties throughout Central Florida. His driving passion is to help people learn the truth of God’s Word and walk in the freedom made available through Jesus. He is also deeply committed to raising up the next generation of leaders in the church. He has been in Ministry for over 25 years. Jason is married to Caroline, and together, they have one daughter, two sons, and six grandchildren.
Pastor Joshua Kelsey
Senior Pastor - Fount NYC
Josh along with his wife, Georgie, are the Lead Pastors of Fount NYC in New York, where they are raising their two sons. Fount NYC started as a Dinner Party in 2013 and has since grown to be 1 church in 3 cities; NYC, Paris & Berlin. Josh’s passion is to communicate the transforming message of God’s grace, raising up and releasing a generation of leaders, reformers, and pioneers who love Jesus, believe in His church, and reflect His glory wherever they are.
Pastor JC Worley
Senior Pastor - Go Church
Go Church is a multi-site and multi-state movement, which was recently identified as number 21 of the top 100 fastest growing church in America by Outreach Magazine. JC is passionately in love with Jesus and his primary ministry is his family! He says, “There’s a lot of dynamic speakers, Pastors and Coaches out there, but I’m the only one who can be a dad to my kids and the husband to my wife!” For many years JC traveled the country as a keynote speaker, coach and mentor – with invitations to camps, conferences, and even the NFL. JC is a graduate of Lee University, with a Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Studies.
Pastor Jonathan Moore
Senior Pastor - NorthRock Church
In 2009, God called Pastors Jonathan and Alicia to San Antonio, Texas with a vision to plant NorthRock Church and a heart for the people of this city. Along with their sons, Mason and Britton, God has helped the Moore family lead a strong and growing community of faith, fueled by one goal: to see lives [re]defined by being filled with life in Christ.
Pastor Eric Gamero
Senior Pastor - The Local Church
Pastor Eric Gamero is Lead Pastor of The Local Church in Davie, Florida were he has served since 2012. Eric’s passion is for people to know their identity in Christ and live in the power of the purpose that comes from God. He is a member of EXCEL Leadership Network and Association of Related Churches. Pastor Eric volunteers at Everglades Correctional Institution, is a coach for community leaders for Excel Leadership Networks, and is the Chaplain for the Davie Police Department. Pastor Eric met his wife, Jessica, while serving in ministry. They have three beautiful children, and all share an overstated love for all things Disney. Pastor Eric joined the Southeast Thrivent Member Network Board to share his perspective as a pastor and help engage other churches and communities of faith in the mission of Thrivent.
Pastor Nick Dalton
Senior Pastor - The Jefferson Church
Pastor Nick and Channe’l Dalton are the Senior Pastors at The Jefferson Church in Jefferson, Georgia. Over an 8-year period, they have seen amazing church growth in a small, rural town in North Georgia - marked by salvation, serving, and extreme generosity. They have four young children, love to travel, and LOVE Georgia Football.
Pastor Jeff Kapusta
Senior Pastor - Lifepoint Church
Pastor Jeff Kapusta (Ka-poo-sta) is the founding and Lead Pastor of Lifepoint Church. After graduating from Liberty University with a degree in religion, he spent eight years in youth ministry, during which God began birthing a desire to plant a life-giving church. In 2005, he answered that call and founded Lifepoint Church in Wilmington, NC. He and his wife, Michelle, married in 1998 and have three amazing kids: Riley, Kenly, and Emery, as well as a 3 lb dog appropriately named “Brutus” and a 100 lb dog named Cabo. Pastor Jeff loves CrossFit, surfing, coffee, and anything Apple makes, and exists to point people to life in Jesus.
Pastor Kenneth Wagner
Senior Pastor - UNITED Church
Kenneth Wagner is the Founding and Lead Pastor of UNITED Church in Dover and Milford, Delaware. The dream of starting a church first came into Pastor Kenneth's heart while in college and became a reality on September 20, 2015, when the doors of UNITED opened. Through partnering with the Association of Related Churches (ARC), UNITED Church has since expanded to two locations in the State of Delaware and has grown to reach thousands with the life-giving message of Jesus. UNITED is passionate about living out their mission to 'Love Delaware until their heart beats like His'!
Pastor Brian Moore
Senior Pastor - Cross Point Church
Brian Moore is the lead pastor at Cross Point Church in Anaheim, California – a growing and exciting church. Before coming to Cross Point, he would travel around the country speaking to youth ministries, camps, and churches as he served as the campus chaplain at Baptist Bible College in Springfield, MO. After graduating from college, he served as the student pastor at Friendship Baptist Church in Owasso, OK, for five years. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Shannon, playing basketball, working out, reading, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Brian loves missions, preaching, and, most of all, passion for Jesus Christ.
Pastor Brad Wilkinson
Senior Pastor - Christian Life Austin
In November 2022, Brad stepped into the role of Lead Pastor of Christian Life Austin. He was born and raised in Austin and has been a member of CLA his entire life. Brad and his wife, Cassidy, have served in ministry at CLA since 2005 in many different capacities. After knowing each other from childhood, Brad and Cassidy got married in 2006 and have three children: Wyndsor, Caroline, and Ellory. Brad received his Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies and his Master’s degree in Family/Human Services from Liberty University. He counts it the privilege of a lifetime to serve the wonderful people who call Christian Life Austin home.
Pastor Brandon Cormier
Senior Pastor - Zeal Church
Brandon has served in various full-time ministry roles for nearly two decades. In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Brandon and his wife Octavia planted Zeal Church in Colorado Springs, which has rapidly grown to over 2,000 weekly attendees, representing a multicultural and multi-generational expression of faith. An internationally sought-after speaker, Brandon uses his diverse skill sets to inspire fellow Christians and pastors. Despite his busy schedule, his top priority remains his wife, Octavia, and their four children: Ryan, Norah, King, and Niyah. In his free time, Brandon stays active with CrossFit.
Pastor TJ McCormick
Senior Pastor - Coastal Community Church
TJ answered God’s call to plant Coastal Community Church in 2009 with a mission to help people experience, know, and follow Jesus. His passion in life is to help others to discover their potential and fulfill the purpose and plans that God has for their life. TJ has been married to his wife, Shayla, since 2000. They have been friends since they were 11 years old and enjoy loving life together.
TJ and Shayla enjoy golf, great coffee, and conversations. They are passionate about the local Church and love supporting and encouraging other leaders and pastors. When they’re not meeting with people, you may find them reading or traveling!
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM
Micah McElveen
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
In 1995, Micah learned life was a Vapor when he broke his neck in a near-fatal surfing accident. God also opened his eyes to purpose. Not able to play football, he picked up soccer and went on to play in College, where he earned a degree in Intercultural Studies. There Micah met his bride and a shared passion to serve the poor and reach the lost emerged. In graduate school, he traveled to Africa and was broken by extreme poverty. Awakened by the experience, a vision to alleviate poverty and multiply disciples birthed Vapor Ministries. He is a follower of Jesus, a husband to Audrey, and a father to Arrow and Given. Author of, “Dying For Purpose,” Micah speaks across the country inspiring people to make a difference while providing leadership for Vapor Ministries.
Sommer L'Hoste
Chief Marketing Officer
Sommer graduated from the University of New Orleans in 1999 and spent the next decade teaching, particularly drawn to schools in low-income communities. Throughout her career, she felt the call of God on her life and saw her classroom as a platform where she could provide a safe, hope-filled place for children in need. Connecting with Vapor's mission to meet needs and feed souls in areas of extreme need, she took a position at Vapor Thrift Store in 2012, being promoted to Store Manager in late 2013. Over the next 3 years, Sommer led the Greystone team through a period that saw a doubling of the store's revenue and profitability. In 2017, Sommer became the leader of the Marketing team where she gets to do what she loves most - increasing awareness of the mission and helping people make an eternal difference by partnering with Vapor Ministries.
Jack Pope
Chief International Operations Officer
Jack studied business administration and accounting at Jefferson State and has operated several small businesses and an NGO dedicated to reducing recidivism among ex-offenders returning back to the community. He has worked in missions across Alabama and the US. Jack has been a part of and led mission teams to South America, Cambodia, Nepal, and the Ivory Coast. Jack felt God’s call to full-time mission work in Africa and join Vapor Ministries in 2016 as a Regional Director. He now serves as the head of Center Operations. Jack is the father of five children, grandfather to eight, and great-grandfather to one baby girl.
David Johnson
Chief Business Officer
David graduated from the University of Mississippi in 1985 with a BS in Business Administration. He joined Walmart in 1985 and spent the next 32 years in various levels of management. He served the last 22 years as a Market Manager operating markets in South Carolina and Alabama. After a brief retirement period, David began to pray about an opportunity to use his business background in an organization where ministry and missions were a focus. In December of 2019, those prayers were answered when David joined Vapor as a store manager at the Vestavia location. He now serves as the head of the US Profit Centers department. David and his wife of 30 years, Leslie, live in Trussville and have 3 adult sons.
Christian Nkulikiye
Vice President of International Profit Centers
Christian was born in Mubimbi, Bujumbura – Burundi. He moved to Nairobi in 1994 and began playing professional soccer in Kenya from 1995 to 2008. He was an Awana Ministry Coach at Hope Baptist Church from 2003 to 2007, where he met Micah. Christian was the first person to join Vapor Ministries in 2005. He served as a missionary and leader in Vapor Ministries in Kenya, Togo, and now Haiti. He and his wife, Celine, have two lovely daughters.
Katie Price, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
Katie earned her degree in Accounting from the University of Iowa and became a CPA in 2012. She has spent most of her career working in the non-profit sector, mainly with large churches and most recently as VP of Finance at Greater Birmingham Habitat for Humanity. She is passionate about using her gifts and talents to serve the Lord. When she isn’t working, she can be found with her family on the lacrosse field. Katie and her husband, Ben, live in Chelsea and have three children, Luke, June, and Aaron.
Mike Davenport
Vice President of Project Advancement
After receiving a BS in Building Science from the School of Architecture at Auburn University in 1983, Mike has spent the last 30+ years working in the construction industry; in project management, operations, and as the owner of a small construction company. He is married to Colleen, who is a Registered Nurse, and they have five children. In 2007, after a short term mission trip to Ukraine, Mike started to feel the Lord calling him toward full-time ministry. He answered that call to full-time ministry with Vapor in 2011. Because of Mike's passion for glorifying God, advancing the Gospel, and serving the poor, he looks forward to the work at hand each day.
INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT TEAM
Roger Kpotogbe
West Africa Regional Manager
Roger studied accounting and business management at Defitech University Togo. He Joined Vapor Ministries as a volunteer in 2009. He is passionate about his role and the daily opportunity to do what Jesus calls us to do - meet needs, feed souls, and elevate God. Roger and his wife, Valerie, have two daughters.
Davies Lule
East Africa Regional Manager
Lule serves on our Africa Regional Team. It was through his everyday interaction with community members in his former career that he felt the urge to use his skills to contribute to a ministry that glorifies Christ and positively impacts people’s lives. Lule is delighted to be part of Vapor Ministries, serving in his role since June 2017. Lule and his wife Abby have been married for 8 years and together they have three children.
Selinah Nkulikiye
Haiti Regional Manager
Selinah attended college in Nairobi, Kenya, where she studied computers, administration, and French language. She worked as an Administrative Assistant in a religious institution for 4 years and spent 6 years working in an accounting firm. In 2006, Selinah joined an NGO where she worked as a Project Administrator for two years before joining her husband on mission to West Africa with Vapor Ministries. Currently, Selinah is a Regional Administrator.
Vincent Okoth
East Africa Regional HR Coordinator
Vincent joined Vapor Ministries as a volunteer in 2009. He loves working with children, teaching and imparting life skills and discipling them. Vincent has a BA degree in Leadership and Management as well as a diploma in Counseling. He and his wife, Criscensia, have one son.
Emmanuel Zagana
West Africa Regional HR Coordinator
Emmanuel studies Theology and Mission with a Master's degree. He served as Wise Intentional Leadership Development National Director, teaching at Neues Leben Bible Institute in Lomé and leading God's Family Community Church in Lomé. Through Jack Pope in 2018, he came to know Vapor Ministries and was delighted to serve the Lord as West Africa's HR Coordinator to meet needs, feed souls, and elevate God. He is married to Genevieve, and they have four children.
Frandieux Clermond
West Africa Regional Finance Coordinator
Frandieux's family spent many years struggling to afford the fees to send him to school. In spite of the hardships, he was able to graduate. When the Vapor Ministries center opened in his community, he began work as a Guard. In 2014, he was given a position on the Ground Crew, and two years later he worked his way up to Center Director. Frandieux loves that Vapor Ministries has enabled him to grow professionally, personally, and spiritually.
Patrick Kilonzo
East Africa Regional Finance Coordinator
After graduating from school in Nairobi, Patrick served as a full-time volunteer for Compassion International at his local church. In 2009, Vapor Ministries began construction of a new center and initiated partnership with Patrick's church. He worked in the construction of the center and was hired full-time as the Child Education Coordinator. In 2019, Patrick was promoted to Discipleship and Poverty Alleviation Manager and now serves on the Regional team as the Finance Coordinator. He and his wife, Virginia, have 3 children.
​
Francia Dervilus
Haiti Regional Finance Coordinator
Francia Dervilus, a volunteer Vapor Ministries translator since 2013, enriched her academic foundation with a degree in Leadership Management in 2014. In 2017, she assumed the role of Administrator at Danita's Children's Home, showcasing her leadership skills and dedication. In 2023, Francia embarked on a new journey as an intern at the Haiti Regional Office. With a commitment to bridging communication gaps and a passion for community betterment, Francia exemplifies dedication as Regional Finance Coordinator.
Lucsaint Laurent
Haiti Regional HR Coordinator
Lucsaint Laurent is a versatile professional who studied Business Administration with a minor in HR at university in 2018. In 2022, he joined Vapor Ministries as a part-time team member, later interning at the Regional office. In 2023, he transitioned to Sovereign FC, assuming the role of Operations Director, highlighting his commitment to driving change and his diverse skill set in business and human resources. He now serves as the Regional HR Coordinator for all Haiti operations.
Isaac Wambani
Regional IPC Manager
Isaac joined Vapor Ministries in October 2020. It was through his interaction with the Kawangware center team that he came to learn about Vapor ministries, hence developing an interest to use his gift to serve within the ministry. He serves as IPC East Africa Regional Manager and is blessed to be married to his wife, Jentrix, with whom they have been blessed with one child.
Elga Laroque
Regional IPC Manager
Elga served with several local and foreign organizations in management roles for more than a decade before joining Vapor Ministries in 2018. In 2021, he became the IPC Haiti Regional Manager. Passionate about helping people and lover of the gospel, Elga loves advancing the mission of Vapor Ministries. He is married to Eunice, his wonderful wife.
Albert Mukoyani Manyego
West Africa Regional Project Manager
After completing school in 2000, Albert began working in the construction field in Nairobi. In 2009, he was involved in the construction of the Gichagi center. Today, Albert is a member of the Africa Regional Team, overseeing all construction at our Africa centers.
Albert and his wife, Caroline, have four children.
Dossa ABLAmvi Domefa
Togoville Center Manager
Dossa is a father of four daughters and was born in 1995. He completed his first degree in 2017 and joined Vapor Ministries as a part-time team member of U12 in the same year. He was hired as an Education Coordinator in 2021 and was promoted to serve as Poverty Alleviation Manager in 2023. At the end of the same year, he was selected as an interim Center Manager. Now, he has been promoted to the position of Togoville Center Manager.
Wilfred Katuka Litwachi
Kawangware Center Manager
Wilfred earned a BS in Computer Science, majoring in software development, from
University of Nairobi. He has volunteered with Vapor Ministries since 2010, and he loves
being a part of the impact the ministry is making in the lives of less privileged members
of his community. Wilfred and his wife, Torrence, are blessed with two sons, Karsten
and Kenzo.
Benjamin Felix
Dilaire Center Manager
Benjamin worked very hard to achieve his education despite growing up in difficult circumstances. He was working as a school teacher when he learned about Vapor Ministries. He began serving as a Child Education Coordinator in 2013 and was promoted to Center Director in 2016. Benjamin loves the fact that he experience spiritual growth while living out his calling. He considered Vapor Ministries his family.
Benard Nyutu
Gichagi Center Manager
Benard joined Vapor Ministries in 2009 as a casual laborer when the Gichagi center was under construction. During that time, he came to know Jesus Christ through the discipleship classes which took place every morning before work. When the center was opened, Benard was hired as the Health Coordinator and was later promoted to League Manager. Today, Benard serves as Center Director. He is blessed with a wife, Millicent, and one son.
Nixon Bernadin
Ouanaminthe Center Manager
Nixon started working at the construction site during the construction of Dilaire Center. The money he was paid enabled him to finish high school. He then started volunteering as a coach in 2012. He continued volunteering till April 2014 when he was appointed as a League Coordinator in Dilaire Center. In March 2021 he was promoted to the Discipleship Manager in Dilaire. He held this position till March 2022 when he was promoted again to be the Center Director of Ouanaminthe Center. Nixon is married to Pauline and has a son.
HQ SUPPORT TEAM
Audrey McElveen
Cofounder & Strategic Care Coordinator
Audrey cofounded Vapor Ministries alongside her husband, Micah, and serves as our Strategic Care Coordinator. She is mother to her son, Arrow Amani, and daughter, Given Gracia. Audrey’s qualifications rely on the fact that God often uses the weak, the broken & unimpressive in the world’s eyes to bring Himself glory (â€â€1 Corinthians‬ â€1:27-31‬). She has seen God move powerfully in her own life & in the lives of many others. She has been compelled by the physical need and spiritual darkness in the world to work alongside Vapor Ministries to bring the hope of Christ into very difficult places.
Bethaney Roland
Donor Services Manager
Bethaney began her long-time career with the United States Postal Service in 1995 where she dedicated 24 years of service. During this time, she gained invaluable experience in customer relations and operational support. In the latter part of her career, she felt the Lord leading her to use her skills for a greater purpose. In 2018, she connected with Vapor Ministries and began a journey serving the ministry as a volunteer. In 2019, she transitioned from her volunteer role to a full-time role with the ministry. Bethaney and her husband, David, have been married for 28 years and are blessed to have 3 wonderful children and 4 adorable grandchildren.
Raquel Hustad
Key Partner Coordinator
Raquel was born & raised on the island of Culebra, Puerto Rico. She graduated from Sacred Heart University with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management with minors in Public Speaking and Public Relations. In addition, she is John Maxwell Team Certified. At a young age, she embraced God's call to seek and serve the Lord. For the past 24 years, she has coordinated women's events throughout churches across the US and has traveled as a missionary and translator throughout Central America & Africa. She is passionate and bold in sharing the Gospel, and being a part of Vapor Ministries allows her to continue to walk in His call on her life. Raquel and her husband, Douglas, are blessed with a son, Madison Andrew, and daughter, Amarige Nicole.
Rachel Holmes
Donor Experience Coordinator
Rachel graduated from the University of Montevallo with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She worked in retail for 12 years and retail management for 8 years. During this time, Rachel had the opportunity to learn about building teams and providing excellent customer experience. God developed a love of missions in Rachel’s heart at the age of 14 when she and her family became involved with missions in Ukraine. While on a short-term mission trip to Nepal, Rachel felt that she should be better equipped to serve the vulnerable. Upon returning home, she started Highlands College and graduated in 2020. Rachel is excited to bring her passion and live out her purpose at Vapor Ministries.
Cathie McElveen
Volunteer Donor Information Coordinator
Having recently retired, Cathie is grateful to focus her efforts on making a difference in the lives of lost and hurting people by volunteering for Vapor. Through the years, she worked in a variety of industries and capacities and now enjoys using her relational and technical skills to help further God’s kingdom. Randy and Cathie McElveen are parents of Founder, Micah McElveen, and are blessed with four children and many grandchildren.
Seth Perkins
Manager of Donor Development
Seth has spent most of his life in ministry since God called him at age 14. Seth and his wife, Kristi, have been married for almost 20 years and have served in bi-vocational ministry since 2007. They are the proud parents of two children, Madisyn and Greyson. Seth graduated from Lee University with a Bachelor's in Pastoral Ministries. He had the opportunity to grow in his passions for training, leading teams, building systems, and mentoring when he worked for influential institutions like Apple, Inc. and Highlands College in Birmingham, AL. He is grateful to serve our partners to advance the vision and mission of Vapor Ministries.
Ryan Bartels
Communications Coordinator
Ryan received an honors degree in English from Arizona State University and has served as an award-winning communications and marketing professional in the Christian nonprofit industry for more than 16 years. He has also volunteered in or led 12 humanitarian efforts in Malawi, Ukraine, and Turkey, where poverty alleviation, orphan care, and rural medicine became social challenges very close to his heart. Ryan’s passion for encouraging and facilitating life-changing efforts through visual and written storytelling led him to Vapor Ministries in 2022. He and his wife, Jessica, live in Birmingham, Alabama.
Kevin Nelson
HR Manager
Kevin graduated from Troy University in December 2003 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. With over 20 years of dedication to bi-vocational youth ministry and more than 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Kevin has made significant contributions to his community. He has been happily married to the love of his life for over 20 years , and he and his wife have 1 daughter.
Trevor Drummonds
I.T. Coordinator
Trevor received his certification from Udacity in iOS Programming. He is passionate about helping the community and spreading the Gospel. When he heard about Vapor Ministries, he prayerfully sought a position where he could make a difference using his skills in technology. Trevor is an integral part of the team, serving in the role of I.T. Coordinator. He and his wife, Krysta, reside in Sylacauga.
Kirsten Jones
Donor Support Coordinator
Kirsten was born in raised in Houston, Texas. She has felt a call of ministry on her life from a young age. Kirsten took a leap of faith in 2020 to enroll in Highlands College and two years later graduated with a concentration in Outreach and a Christian Ministry degree from Southeastern University. She has served in many capacities at Church of the Highlands while fostering a relationship with the Vapor Ministries Team. She has a unique ability to love others while operating in her administration gifting. Kirsten is honored to play a part in making a difference around the world with Vapor Ministries.
Harrison Parker
Facilities Superintendant
After graduating from Auburn with a BA in English, Harrison spent a decade working in the retail space, primarily in management. Harrison then moved into construction, where he spent five years working on commercial and residential projects as an ironworker. Vapor Ministries brought Harrison on board in August of 2020 to oversee the closure of the original bulk bailing and storage facility located in Westover. Harrison quickly proved a valuable addition to the team with his work ethic and attitude, and soon became an integral part of the bulk bailing business. When the Facilities Superintendent position became available, Harrison was the first choice to fill the opening. He and his wife, Jamie, enjoy spending time with family and friends.
Jessica Bartels
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Jessica specialized in spearheading client success strategy and implementation for strategic accounts across the financial technology and dental industries for nearly a decade. An increased focus on cross-functional collaboration, personnel training, and systems efficiency later propelled her into the administrative arm of the corporate world. Her passion for international missions ultimately led her to Vapor in June of 2023. Jessica earned a degree in business administration from St. Petersburg College in 2018. She and her husband, Ryan, live in Birmingham, Alabama.
Cherie Brewer
Donor Care Coordinator
Cherie moved to Alabama in 1999 from Bradenton, Florida. She comes to us with over a decade of customer service and management experience. At the age of 23, Cherie gave her heart to the Lord. She met her husband, Marcus, in 2000, and they were married in June 2001. They live in Chelsea, Alabama, and have 18-year-old quintuplets: Morgan, Maddie, Sean, Ben, and Carson (who is in Heaven). After seeking the Lord on reentering the workforce, the Lord led Cherie to Vapor, where she first served in our Greystone thrift store and now serves and cares for our donors.
Hannah Casey
Culture & Care Coordinator
Hannah moved back to her hometown of Birmingham, AL in 2018 after serving 6 years overseas with YWAM (Youth With A Mission). She was primarily based in Australia where she organized and taught discipleship schools and led teams across southeast Asia on mission trips to share the gospel and train pastors. Hannah gained a heart for the lost serving overseas, but in 2018 she felt God calling her home. She continued her education while working and learning business leadership. Now, Hannah gets to pursue her passion for reaching the lost and helping the impoverished as part of the Vapor Ministries team.
Sonya Berger
Accounting Coordinator
Sonya Berger was born and raised in Talladega County, Alabama. With a distinguished career spanning nearly 23 years, she retired from her role at Protective Life. Following her retirement, Sonya's journey took a new direction. During a church service, she felt a compelling call to explore joining the Vapor Ministries team. As she delved deeper into Vapor’s mission and values, she recognized that she had found her God-orchestrated path. Outside of her professional endeavors, Sonya finds joy in traveling alongside her husband, Duane, embarking on adventures that allow them to experience new horizons. She places great importance on quality family time, relishing moments spent with her three adult children and four grandchildren.
Pete McVey
Volunteer Strategic Operations Coordinator
Born and raised in Southern California, Pete attended the University of Tennessee, earning a Bachelor’s in Communication and Business. In 2007, he married his bride Candace, relocating back to California and completing an MBA in Entrepreneurial Management. Called to serve his country, Pete was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Navy in 2010 where he went on to become a member of Naval Special Warfare. Over the past decade, he has completed five deployments to the Middle East. Through his military journey he has witnessed the brokenness of our world. Having had a calling and passion for Africa, he is committed to giving his time to the Great Commission and serving the Lord through Vapor Ministries.
THRIFT MANAGEMENT TEAM
Olivia McCombs
Manager of Thrift Operations
With over 18 years of management experience, Olivia is known for her dedication to excellence and innovation. Guided by her faith, she has found her calling at Vapor Ministries, where she can merge her professional skills with her passion for serving others in need. Olivia finds joy and fulfillment as a loving wife to her husband, Jackie, of 18 years, and a devoted mother to their two beautiful daughters, Blakely and Joy Rose. Olivia approaches both her personal and professional life with passion, integrity, and a commitment to continual growth, drawing inspiration from her faith to make a positive impact in the world.
Sabrina Clauser
Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Vestavia
Sabrina is a graduate of Samford University where she studied Human Development and Family Studies. After graduation, she worked at Edgar’s Bakery until she met her soon to be husband and moved to Maryland. After moving she started a career with Pier 1 Imports, where she grew with the company and managed stores for 20 years. After the closing of Pier 1 in September of 2020 Sabrina found herself with a wide-open opportunity to start over with a new company and began praying that God would show her what the next step would be. God opened the door to pursue a store manager position with Vapor, which would allow her to meld both her love for the Lord and years of experience in retail.
Nathan Harper
Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Greystone
Nathan graduated from Blue Mountain College in 2000 with a degree in Biblical Studies. For approximately 25 years Nathan has served in ministry, primarily through the local church and in cross-cultural missions. He began work at Vapor Thrift Store Greystone in 2017 and served as the store’s assistant manager in charge of warehouse activities before being promoted to Store Manager. His wife, Rachel is a social worker. They have three children.
Elsa Thiessen
Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Westover
Elsa is from the city of Curitiba, in Brazil. She has a degree in Business Administration and worked for several years providing business management services. God called her to work in a ministry that helps children in socially vulnerable situations. She eventually began managing a local thrift store as well as leading donor development for the ministry. But God had other plans for her life as her husband received an invitation to transfer his job to the United States. In July 2021 they moved to Alabama. After a few months, God showed Elsa that she could serve God using the gifts he had given her to help other people through Vapor. She has been married for 25 years and has a 24-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son.
Adrian Brown
Manager, Central Processing Center
Adrian moved to Alabama from Jamaica in June of 2019. He started working with Vapor as a truck driver in July of that same year. In July of 2022, Adrian was promoted to the role of Central Processing Center Manager. Adrian found Christ in 2010 while still living in Jamaica and is excited about how the Lord continues to use him through his work at Vapor. Adrian is married to his wife, Dahlia, and they have one son, Nathen.
Colin Riggs
Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Online
Colin grew up on the mission field in Peru and worked as an interpreter and coordinator for medical and educational missions. After returning to the States, Colin studied Foreign Languages and Linguistics at Jacksonville State University and received certification in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Colin came to work at Vapor Thrift Store in 2020 and now works as the Manager of Vapor Thrift Online. Colin and his wife, Rebecca, live in Alabaster.
Shawanda DeVaughn
Vapor Thrift Store HR Coordinator
Shawanda retired as a Chief Master Sergeant from the U.S. Air Force in 2020. While in the Air Force, she deployed to several countries and worked in various capacities. Her career culminated with her working as the Chief of Personnel, where she oversaw the support functions of the base where she was assigned. After retiring, reentering the job market, and feeling much discontent, Shawanda and her husband prayed and asked the Lord for direction and discernment in where she could best be used by Him in the workplace. That prayer led her to Vapor Ministries. As the new Vapor Thrift Store HR Coordinator, Shawanda is excited about how she may be used by the Lord to help Vapor Ministries continue His work. Shawanda is married to her husband, William, and has a set of twins, Jeremiah and Jaelynn Christina.
Autum Sample
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Vestavia
Autum is from the Alabaster area and graduated from Thompson High School in 2012. After graduating high school, Autum surrendered her life to the Lord. She worked in the retail industry for 10 years before joining Vapor in 2022, as one of the Assistant Store Managers of our Vestavia location. Autum was drawn to Vapor out of a heart for the Lord, and the work that the ministry is accomplishing for the less fortunate. She has one daughter whose name is Summer.
Hannah Frazier
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Vestavia
Hannah grew up in Lynchburg, VA as one of 5 kids. She was adopted from Korea at 8 months old. Hannah came into the knowledge of Christ at the young age of 12 years old. She moved to Birmingham in June of 2017 and became part of the Vapor Thrift Team in January of 2021. Hannah left Vapor for a brief period, but felt like the Lord prompting her to return in September of 2022. Upon her return to Vapor, Hannah was quickly promoted to Support Team Manager and then Assistant Store Manager. She is actively involved in her church, where she serves on the Media Team and in the Student Ministry. She loves exploring new places and going on long hikes with dog, Sara. Hannah is excited to see what the Lord has in store for her through her connection with Vapor.
Dana Ball
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Vestavia
Dana is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, who relocated to Alabama in May 2017 to seize a career opportunity. With nearly two decades of experience in leadership and customer relations, Dana sought guidance from God on how to order her next steps, aspiring to make a meaningful impact through servant leadership. This journey led her to Vapor, where she is excited to contribute to its mission and vision as an Assistant Store Manager. Outside of her professional pursuits, Dana is married to her husband of 24 years. Together, they have a son and enjoy spending time with their two grandchildren, cherishing the moments of family and connection.
Brandy Kelly
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Greystone
Brandy is a Birmingham native and proud graduate of UAB where she earned her B.S. in Behavioral Science. After graduating, she spent several years working in the medical field before starting a new career in real estate in 2009. After spending over a decade serving her community as a real estate professional and entrepreneur, she felt the call to devote her skills and experience in a new way by joining the Vapor family back in the fall of 2020. Brandy is married to her high school sweetheart, Scott, and they have two children.
Jennifer Cuthrell
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Greystone
Jennifer was raised in Springville, Alabama, and continues to live there. She began attending church at a young age and accepted Christ when she was 13. Jennifer is married to her husband, Charles, and they have four children: Kirsten, Jordan, Zoie, and Caitlyn. She is an active member of One Eighty Church in Springville, where she participates in the youth/student ministry. Jennifer started at Vapor as an hourly team member and rapidly advanced to Apparel Team Manager before becoming Assistant Store Manager.
Carolyn Whetstone
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Westover
Carolyn, a native of Sylacauga, Alabama, brings with her an extensive retail background to Vapor. Carolyn was raised in the church and dedicated her life to the Lord at the age of 18. For more than 12 years, she taught Sunday school at her local church. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, painting and spending time with her grandchildren. Carolyn is blessed with a loving family, including her husband Ragan, their five children - Morgan, Reanna, Stacey, Chris, and Corey - and their ten grandchildren.
Sherri Ramsay
Assistant Store Manager, Vapor Thrift Store - Westover
Sherri was born in Gary, Indiana, but moved to Birmingham as a young child. She spent several
years working for a medical equipment company before starting with Vapor at our Vestavia
location in 2021. Sherri is now our new Assistant Store Manager at our Westover location. She
gave her heart to the Lord in 1981 and is eager to see how the Lord uses her in her new role.
Sherri is married to her husband, Greg, and is raising her grandson, Easton.
FORMER BOARD MEMBERS