Meet the People Behind the Mission
RiverCross Global is powered by a Christ-centered team working together to equip caregivers, strengthen communities, and help vulnerable children heal and thrive.
Our Team
Each member of our team brings unique gifts—whether in training, trauma care, operations, or development—but all united by one mission: equipping caregivers to treasure children and transform communities.
CINDY FINLEY
Executive Director
Cindy joined RiverCross in 2014 and became Executive Director in 2016. She leads with vision and heart, shaping the mission, building the team, and expanding RiverCross’s reach across Africa and beyond.
DAWN STRIDE
Director of Operations
A seasoned nonprofit leader with more than 25 years of experience, Dawn ensures RiverCross runs with excellence. She oversees staff, systems, and strategy execution, bringing steadiness, clarity, and alignment to the organization.
DEVON TARR
Training Director & Trauma Specialist
Devon designs and delivers RiverCross’s training and resources. Drawing on expertise in trauma care and adult education, she equips leaders and caregivers with tools that are biblically faithful and research-informed.
TINO RUSIKE
Regional Coordinator and Master Trainer
Based in Harare, Tino leads RiverCross’s work in Zimbabwe. He trains caregivers, supports local implementation, and builds partnerships that strengthen community impact and sustainability.
BRENDA FARRAND
Administrative Manager
Brenda keeps RiverCross running smoothly by managing finances, logistics, and administration. Her attention to detail and joyful spirit help the team stay focused on mission and impact.
ASHLEY BAKER
Content Creator
Ashley leads RiverCross’s newsletters and social media presence. She tells the stories of caregivers and children, inviting others to join the mission and celebrate what God is doing through RiverCross.
MADDIE GRACE WOHLSCHLEGEL
Development Assistant
Maddie Grace supports donor engagement and development efforts. She ensures generosity is stewarded well and relationships remain personal, responsive, and meaningful.
Our Board
The RiverCross Board of Directors provides governance, financial oversight, and strategic guidance to ensure the organization remains faithful to its mission and responsible with every gift. Together, these leaders bring deep experience in ministry, business, and nonprofit work—united by a shared passion for helping vulnerable children thrive.
MARILYN YOUNG
Chairman
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a private practice, Marilyn brings decades of experience in trauma care and family counseling. She holds a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and provides thoughtful leadership rooted in both faith and expertise.
JAMIE WOHLSCHLEGEL
Vice Chairman & Secretary
Jamie worked as the CEO of a software development company with operational expertise. He combines entrepreneurial insight with a heart for mission, helping RiverCross build systems that sustain long-term impact.
ROB MORRIS
Treasurer
Rob serves as a project director with Hope International, where he advances faith-based economic development initiatives. Born and raised in Africa, he brings cross-cultural wisdom and financial acumen to the RiverCross board.
CINDY FINLEY
Board Member, Ex Officio
As Executive Director of RiverCross, Cindy offers organizational insight and alignment between the staff and board. Her leadership ensures the mission remains Christ-centered and strategically focused.
DAVE KOCH
Board Member
With decades of nonprofit leadership experience, Dave has served as CEO of Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, a food bank serving seven North Carolina counties, and CEO of American Human Services, a community-based mental health treatment provider for adolescents and young adults. He also served as VP at Lutheran Family Services, overseeing child services and refugee resettlement. His heart for serving vulnerable children was shaped by years working with severely abused youth and operating community-based group homes throughout North Carolina.
SARA BETH FENTRESS
Board Member
Sara Beth Fentress is the Founder and Executive Director of 127 Worldwide, with 24 years of experience in full-time ministry and master’s degrees in Marriage and Family Counseling and Christian Education. For the past 15 years, she has led 127 to build healthy, sustainable partnerships that empower vulnerable communities. She provides expertise in cross cultural training, nonprofit leadership, and fundraising.
Check Out Our Model
Our mission helps children grow in safety, faith, and hope through our Equip → Lead → Thrive model. Learn more about how you can be part of the journey.