Elaine has a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art, post-graduate work in the Art of Teaching and has been a professional artist. Elaine has also been a public school educator for 4.5 years in the states, working teaching Special Education & Art with children in grades K-12. She has graduated from the 2 year ministry school program at Morningstar School of Ministry in addition to completing 2 years of Special Forces Missions training there. After graduating ministry school and teaching in the inner-city, Elaine returned to Haiti to do missions work in 2012 only to fall in love with the country's orphans and vulnerable children. Known by her kids as "Mommy Ellen", she raises children in Haiti with a special emphasis on their relationship with Jesus, education for the future, ministry, and their tremendous value in God. When asked, Elaine's favorite thing about Haiti is: "The children, and watching how Jesus loves the Haitian people."
Vice President: Harold Varvel
Harold or "Hal" Varvel is a dedicated public servant and retired from Law Enforcement after 32 years fulfilling multiple functions and investigative roles. Hal spent 12 of his law enforcement years as a Major Case Detective investigating fraud, including fraudulent practices in charitable organizations, child abuse, and crimes against persons. He has been an ordained minister and has a Bachelor degree in Theology. He served for several Years on the board or as Center Director of "A New Generation Pregnancy Resource Center." He has also served with his wife Pam as houseparents for a Christian Group Home in Shelby, NC. He has been on a Missions trip to Nicaragua. Harold Varvel has a tremendous heart for seeing the full message of the Kingdom of God being proclaimed to all people. Hal has yet to go to Haiti, but when asked, his favorite thing about Haiti is: "The people's love and openness to the Gospel message."
Board Secretary & Treasurer: Terri Ballard
Terri Ballard is a licensed accountant with years of experience working with nonprofit organizations and ministries. In her own words, "I am happy and excited to be able to support this very important work. The growth that has happened in the past years is amazing, and I look forward to even more children being helped and leaders being raised up. I praise God for His faithfulness!" We are blessed to have Terri on board with us here at Lespri and appreciate her service to the mission.