• Date of Hire:  January 2009

• Married to Kenneth, two children

Lisa loves her work at RIFA. “I’m sure this is where God wants me at this time.  RIFA is staffed with great people that are dedicated to the mission of RIFA. I am always amazed and humbled to see God at work at RIFA every day.

• Date of hire:  June 2008
• B.A. Christian Studies, minor in Biblical Languages, Union University
• A.S. in Agriculture, JSCC
• Jackson native

As the Assistant Director, Shaun does an excellent job overseeing the Food Bank, Home Repair and food and furniture pickup, and coordinates volunteers. 

"At RIFA, God is allowing me to use my gifts and talents to serve and love Him and then to secondly love my neighbor.  I strive to help make RIFA the best it can be for the 'least of these'."

• Date of hire:  October 2008
• West TN native
• Elder at First Cumberland Presbyterian

Dan has a heart for missions. His love for missions extends beyond RIFA and can be witnessed through his mission work at his church. He is also a Gideon and part of the Emmaus community. Dan's favorite Bible promise is that all things work together for those who love God.

• Date of hire:  January 2009
• 3 sons

Kim is from Southern California, and moved to West Tennessee in 1991. She enjoys working at RIFA because she has a heart for those in need. Her organizational ability continues to be a valuable asset to RIFA.

• Date of hire- June 14, 2010
• B.A. Advertising, minor photojournalism, Union University

Lindsay is a native of Meridan, MS and came to Jackson to attend Union University. She came to RIFA as an AmeriCorps VISTA to help coordinate Adult Basic Education, Adult Literacy and computer programs.

"I enjoy working with the Life Enrichment ministry because I get to witness people taking the initiative to change their lives. They are making the change and coming to RIFA not only to get an education but to receive the love of Christ."

• Date of hire:  July 2007
• Relocated to Jackson as Hurrican Katrina evacuee
• Hometown - New Orlean, LA

Evelyn works with donated clothing, food, housewares, and furniture.  She is super organized and helps keep order in the warehouse.  "I've seen God at work at RIFA.  It's so amazing to know that I first came to RIFA for help  -  and now, I'm helping others."

• Date of hire:  August 2007
• Bachelors from Samford University, Birmingham, AL

• Masters of Social Work from University of Alabama

• Licensed Master Social Worker

• Married to Richard

 "I am so honored to be a part of the Lord’s work here at RIFA. My passion is helping others as they work toward their God-given potential and seeing lives transformed through the Word of the Lord. "

• Date of hire:  May 2001
• Married to Alean
• 7 children, 5 grandchildren

Kenneth picks up and delivers to RIFA food and furniture donations from the community.  Kenneth is very resourceful and always comes to the rescue when something in the RIFA building breaks down.  A man of integrity and strength of character, Kenneth represents RIFA well wherever he goes. 

“I like helping people and RIFA is a helping organization.  I like seeing the smiles on peoples’ faces after we have helped them.”

Jimmy always has a smile on his face and is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the task at hand accomplished. Whether it's accepting donations or helping an outreach client with furniture, he always works with a smile on his face.

• Date of hire:  March 2003
• Husband, Thomas
• 5 children, 4 grandchildren

Elaine is always pleasant and fun to be around.  She is efficient, dependable, and dedicated to helping those in need.

"I like working with people and working in a Christian atmosphere.  People are always so grateful when we take extra time to help them.  Often we need to take extra time to help the elderly and they are most appreciative.”

• Date of hire:  August 2005
• Husband, David.  Son, Adrian, 18
• Business degree from Lambuth University, and provides freelance interior design
• Presents free “Decorating on a Budget” classes for our clients and customers

Cheryl has transformed RIFA Thrift Store to more closely resemble a boutique and home decor store than a thrift store  -  all with donated fixtures and supplies!

“The Thrift Store is a ministry.  Whether we are providing something at no cost to someone in crisis or selling it at our low prices to someone on limited income, it’s a joy helping people who can benefit from the wide variety of things donated to RIFA.  Clients often come back later to thank us for working to put together just what they needed for their particular situation.”

• Date of hire:  April 11, 2006
• Jackson native
• Husband, Braxton, daughter Ellie
• Lambuth BA, UT of Martin, Master of Acountancy
• Experience with 3 regional CPA firms

RIFA depends on Lori's accuracy and efficiency in all financial matters.  She can squeeze a penny better than most, always making the best cost efficient, cost effective purchases.  Lori says she is not interested in working for another CPA firm.  She wants to work somewhere "where it makes a difference."  Lori IS making a difference at RIFA.

• Date of hire: September 19, 2009
• B.A. History, minor Christian Studies, Union University

Nick was raised in Corinth, MS and then came to Jackson to attend Union University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts. He came to RIFA through the AmeriCorps VISTA program to help with volunteers and grants.

“I am blessed to be a part of the work that is being done here at RIFA. I am continually amazed how people come to RIFA for help with material needs and receive not only that but a listening ear, a caring spirit, and the love of Christ being lived out daily.”