OUR VISION Equipped leaders. Healthier ministries. Communities transformed by the Gospel. | OUR MISSION To equip people and ministries with the practical tools, wisdom, and support they need to thrive and expand their Kingdom impact. |
“…to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:12
With a career that spans both Fortune 500 brands and mission-driven organizations, Mike has learned how to mobilize people and resources toward meaningful impact—whether guiding a national initiative or launching a local board toolkit.
His journey began in corporate marketing, where he worked with iconic companies like Food Lion, Sara Lee/Hanes, and Lexington Home Brands. That foundation of branding, messaging, and results-driven strategy became the springboard for his nonprofit leadership in human services – serving as Executive Director of Feeding the Carolinas (supporting Feeding America Food Banks across North and South Carolina), Executive Director of the NC Association of Free Clinics, and Chief Program Officer for the American Health Initiative, a national effort to connect retired healthcare professionals with clinics serving uninsured patients.
Mike’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, an MBA from Wake Forest University, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University. He is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and a Certified Interim Executive through Armstrong McGuire. In 2024, he was named AFP Triad’s Professional Fundraiser of the Year. Mike has also served as YouthMin Director at First Baptist Church of Welcome NC.
MADDAWG Ministries is a sports ministry where we engage youth and young adults to both entertain and ultimately enlighten them about Jesus Christ – I call that ‘Project E3’.
We are a ‘train and leave’ ministry – meaning we teach the local pastors and church leaders how to run a sports camp to engage, build relationships and share the Gospel. We bring and leave behind all the gear needed, and leave knowing that the ministry will continue without us.
In other words, equipping the saints.
So – “where did MADDAWG” come from?
A long time ago, in a church basement far, far away…
I have always been very involved with youth at some level – coaching sports teams and running tournaments and football jamborees, and teaching and mentoring youth at my church.
One day, we were in our church youth room, and we were talking about our initials for some reason (a very Biblical and theological conversation). My initials are MAD – and one of our other leaders said “like a MADDAWG!”. And there it stuck – the name MADDAWG was forever known within our church walls.
Many, many youth throughout the years know me as MADDAWG, whether at church, the ball field or the mission field. Thus, it was just natural to name my ministry MADDAWG Ministries.
Equipping People. Strengthening Ministries. Advancing the Kingdom.
For me it has always been about more than business.
It’s about using what God has given me to equip others for the work of ministry—whether that means stepping onto a field halfway around the world or sitting across the table from a nonprofit leader right here at home.
“…to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:12
That calling is at the heart of everything I do.
I believe God already has passionate, committed people in communities near and far who are ready to make a difference. My role isn’t to step in and take over. It’s to come alongside them—to share what I know, provide practical tools, build meaningful relationships, and equip them to carry the work forward.
It’s a simple philosophy: equip people well, and the impact multiplies.
With a background spanning big-brand strategy and hands-on nonprofit leadership, Mike delivers clarity, purpose, and actionable momentum—tailored to the unique needs of your organization.
Reach out today about taking the next step in moving your nonprofit forward.
Kiara Foster
Head of Content
Kiara
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