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Board of Directors

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President

Wesley Kleitches

Wesley has devoted his life to public service, beginning at 16 with the local fire department and continuing through five years in the U.S. Marine Corps as an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter and EMT. After his honorable discharge, he graduated as class leader from the police academy and served as a Police Officer for a decade. Moved by the impact of Hurricane Helene, he founded Operation Providing Hope to support disaster response efforts. Today, as President and CEO, Wesley continues his mission to aid communities in crisis through compassionate, hands-on leadership

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Vice President

Trent Howerton

Born in Roanoke Rapids, NC, and raised near Emporia, VA, Trent developed a love for the outdoors and sports early in life before joining the Marine Corps at age 18. Over a 20-year career, he served across the globe with multiple combat deployments and held roles ranging from heavy equipment operator to senior instructor and advisor. Trent played a key part in training thousands of Marines and contributed to major logistical transitions, including the global rollout of the JLTV. After retiring in 2021, he transitioned into the insurance industry and now works as an independent agent specializing in business insurance and workers’ compensation. He lives in Advance, NC, with his wife of 20 years, Jennifer, their two daughters, and their Dobermans, Blu and Bella.

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Executive Director

Autumn Lance

Autumn, a native of Western North Carolina, was inspired to serve others after witnessing the devastation in her hometown. She now works as an emergency room nurse at a trauma center in Asheville, NC, where she cares for patients in critical need. Her passion for helping others led her to join Operation Providing Hope, where she found a shared mission and close-knit team. Outside of work, Autumn enjoys the outdoors, traveling, and has a lifelong love of horses—earning an equestrian scholarship to Berry College. She remains committed to supporting disaster relief efforts and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing hardship.

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Treasurer

Sarah Bishop

Sarah, a Liberty, NC native, began her journey in service at 16 as a junior firefighter and soon became an EMT, working for her local EMS agency. She earned her Bachelors degree from UNC-Greensboro and a Masters in Physiology from NC State, all while serving as an Advanced EMT. Currently pursuing her Physician Assistant degree at UNC Chapel Hill, she plans to follow it with a doctorate. Outside of her studies and healthcare work, she enjoys time with her sister Ashlynn and her Yorkie, Tucker, and has volunteered with several community-focused organizations. Her lifelong passion for service drives her continued commitment to making a difference through both healthcare and nonprofit work.

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Operations Director

Jason Kampfer

Jason is a dedicated and experienced professional with a proven track record in medical imaging. For the past 25 years, he has contributed significantly to his field, holding leadership positions for 17 of those years. His experience has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of operational efficiency, team management, and strategic planning within the healthcare sector.
 
His educational background includes an Associate's degree from Kent State University and a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). Jason has served as a commissioned officer in the Army Reserve, achieving the rank of Lieutenant, where he developed strong leadership skills, a commitment to service, and the ability to operate effectively under pressure.
 
In addition to his professional achievements, Jason is a proud father of two sons.

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Veterans Affairs/First Responders Director

Kerri Crossley

After enlisting in the Army Reserve just five months after 9/11, Kerri dedicated over two decades to service as a combat medic. In 2007, she transferred to the North Carolina National Guard, further expanding her commitment to both state and country.

 

Kerri's military career includes three deployments, including three state active duty assignments for disaster relief emergencies. Outside military service, Kerr has worked as a medical assistant for 15 years and served as a sheriff’s deputy for two years, remaining an inactive sworn officer.

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Board of Directors

Dr. Michael Johnston

Dr. Michael Johnson is a dedicated community leader from Franklinville, North Carolina, who upholds small-town values in all his endeavors. A graduate of Campbell University, he has been a licensed pharmacist for over 20 years and currently owns and operates his own independent pharmacy, serving the local community of Randolph County. Michael has also contributed to the U.S. Army Special Forces by supporting the Robin Sage unconventional warfare exercise, a key component of the Special Forces Qualification Course. In addition to his professional roles, he serves as the Lay Minister at Franklinville United Methodist Church. Michael is a devoted father and husband, deeply committed to his family and community.

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