Earl Leake

As a key founder, Earl Leake has brought his passion for supporting others and his gift of problem-solving to Friends In Focus since its creation eight years ago. Earl also brings three decades of experience in high-level positions within finance, human resources, and organizational development. His supportive family- which includes his wife, Florence, and beloved daughter Kristen—always inspires him to continue working for positive change and amplifying others' voices. Colleagues know him as an incredible teammate to his fellow board members, proud family man, and a perfectionist at trying not to be such a perfectionist. 

Debbie Ingram

With a B.S. in Criminal Justice, and as a graduate of U.S. Air Force’s Special Investigations Course, Debbie Ingram brings empathy and toughness to her role with Friends In Focus. This combo makes her an ideal board member and fearless teammate as she can step into the shoes of others and take on challenges with exhilarating anticipation. It also makes her an effective driver-education instructor with Mecklenburg County School System and a trustworthy resource officer for students. When she’s not acting as head chef for Saturday Academy or fulfilling her essential roles with work and Friends in Focus, you’ll find her preparing homegrown vegetables from her garden or seeking out new learning opportunities.  

Florence Leake

Florence Leake is a founder of Friends In Focus with an eye for detail who enjoys finding the right pieces to tie an outfit, room, team, or project plan together. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that Florence has found success both professionally and personally. She holds a master’s degree in business administration and led an incredible career as a cost accountant for over thirty years before retirement. In everything, her main goal is to support and help others achieve their goals and realize their potential. This passion has made her an innovative and essential leader in each role she has held. The roles she is most proud of are those of “mom” to her loving daughter, and as a partner of over forty years to her husband, Earl. 

Felicia Chambers

Felicia’s personable nature has been a critical part of her success as a business administrator, specialized educator, and board member of Friends In Focus for four years. She often uses “we” when describing an issue that others are facing, which reveals her compassionate nature and community-minded spirit. Children, seniors, and students, who may not often open up to others find it easy to open up to Felicia--often seeing her as an advocate who understands the challenges they’re facing. Her ability to communicate across the board allows her to connect across the aisles and build relationships that create positive change. 

Thomas LeGrand

Thomas has faith and passion that shine through in his work with the seniors and youth supported by Friends In Focus. As a board member for seven years, he has developed an exceptional talent for jumping in where needed and supporting his fellow members at every opportunity. After an almost forty-year career with Norfolk Southern Railway, he launched into retirement, pursuing his passion for community service and effective leadership. It’s this season of service and helping others, along with an abundance of well-earned family time, that brings him the most joy. 

Gary McRae

In his roles as CEO of McRae industries and dedicated board member at Friends In Focus, Gary works to add stability and opportunities in his community. He knows the positive effects of education, experience, and positive guidance on challenging circumstances and locations. It’s why he’s passionate about working with others in devoting his time, resources, and administrative knowledge where needed. It’s a passion he shares with his family, which includes his wife Kat and their two children. He enjoys the challenge and competition of marathon running when he’s not grilling a gourmet dinner, playing golf, or reading. 

James Bowden

Helping students achieve their educational goals was a motivating factor for James when he helped found Friends In Focus. He has parented two successful sons with his wife Earlina, whom he describes as “the love of his life,” and led a decorated career in law enforcement. Following his retirement as a U.S. Army officer, he worked as a Chief Investigator for the State of Alaska Statewide Environmental Crimes unit, where his passion for the outdoors met his passion for communities. He remains an essential board member who chairs several committees that make a positive impact on local youths and seniors. He spends his spare time hunting, fishing and wood-working, flying his floatplane, and spending time with his family. 

Melvin Parker, CPA

Melvin’s personable nature has helped him find success as a business owner and community advocate. He holds a master’s degree in business administration, certified public accountant and served in the U.S. Army Reserve before joining Friends in Focus as a founding board member in 2013. He offers his skills in taxation and accounting to consistently improve lives in communities. He has a unique ability to put others at ease in his presence and is most known for his mathematical know-how and friendliness. 

Melvin finds joy in companionship and being of service to others.

Ruth Greene

Ruth has been with Friends In Focus since its founding and continues to stay passionately focused on its mission. Her faith, integrity, and commitment make her a valued board member and give her a unique ability to adapt to change. While she enjoyed professional accomplishments as an administrator, financial educator, and transportation operator, she is most proud of her personal accomplishments: her children. Her organizational skills, unmatched ability for recall, and self-reliant nature make her a pivotal force in her work with others. 

Cheryl Payne

Cheryl is a coach, mentor, teacher, and original founder of Friends In Focus. Her ability to motivate others makes her a key component of Saturday Academy’s success and effectiveness. After 45 years, Cheryl retired as a successful telecommunications manager to devote to her loving family and allowed her more time on her role as a board member. As the committee chair of the Annual Community Appreciation Gala, she consistently works to fundraise and bring awareness to community needs. She enjoys live theater, the arts, and unique fine dining experiences. 

Cheryl is also known as the spiritual leader of the group.

Jackie Lilly

As a community leader and tutor, Jackie has consistently made an impact on the youth through Friends In Focus. As an original board member since its founding, he has always pushed the goals and mission forward while giving back at every opportunity. He volunteers with several of the organization’s programs and credits his unique ability to “see things from a different perspective” for his communicative success. 

Jackie is known to be level-headed in discussions and presents a common sense approach to problem solving, which bodes well for Friends in Focus.