OUR WORK
In response to a fact finding trip to South Africa in November of 2006 sponsored by Lake Pointe Church in Rockwall, TX, Pastor Steve Stroope and Dallas businessman Ken Hickman were compelled to establish the THEMBA FOUNDATION. Partnerships were established between Lake Pointe Church and The Genesis Project, Port Shepstone, South Africa; Lake Pointe Church and Sophumelela Clinic Inc., East London, South Africa. Both South African partners provide compassion based support to those impacted by AIDS. Upon its creation the THEMBA FOUNDATION joined the partnerships.
The Foundation recognized that the needs of the people of South Africa are more than any one government or people group can meet. The Foundation humbly seeks to serve the people of South Africa through personal interaction, education, financial support and sharing the love of Jesus Christ.
The Team
The THEMBA Foundation benefits from the work of a motivated and highly skilled group of professionals. Each brings exceptional talents coupled with a passion to help some of the world’s most vulnerable children and adults. Our volunteer staff works together to carry out our vision.
The THEMBA Foundation’s board of directors includes members from a variety of professions and brings collective wisdom and experience drawn from many quarters. The board has provided strategic development, financial oversight, energy, and aspiration.
Ken Hickman — Chairman
Ken established THEMBA Foundation after traveling to South Africa in 2006. While there, he witnessed the HIVAIDS crisis in sub-Saharan Africa. His leadership experience comes from serving as the CEO of Highlands Residential Mortgage, LTD. He has grown the company from a small brokerage operation to a full service mortgage banker with 12 production offices and more than 180 employees in a span of six months.
Brian Starkey — Director
To ensure THEMBA Foundation operates efficiently, Brian relies on his background as founder and executive vice president of Highlands Residential Mortgage. His primary focus has been on maximizing the organization’s productivity both at Highlands and THEMBA. The Foundation also benefits from Brian’s ability to develop community relationships.
Terra Johnson — Secretary
As the vice president controller at Highlands Mortgage Team, Terra oversees the company’s financial statements, payroll and accounts payable. Her 15-year career covers both the real estate and the mortgage aspects of the home buying industry. As secretary, she assists with THEMBA’s financials.
Tanya Dalton — Treasurer
Tanya Dalton brings over 12 years of administrative experience to the table and currently serves as the Treasurer for Themba. Originally from Plano, TX, Tanya is a proud mom of three beautiful kids. She enjoys being outdoors, listening to music and having fun with her family. She’s a passionate fan of basketball and a huge Dallas Mavericks fan.