Leadership Team

BOARD MEMBER | PRESIDENT

Joe is a pastor with a Master of Divinity degree and has been teaching God’s word and leading small groups for over 25 years. He has a passion for sharing Christ’s love with others who have open and curious hearts. He is passionate about fostering groups that meet consistently together and grow deeper in God’s word.

In 2010, Joe founded Unity 4 Orphans, a nonprofit that helps orphaned and vulnerable children break the cycle of poverty through education, nutrition, counseling, and community. This holistic model has successfully changed the trajectory of children’s lives in Jesus’ name.

When he isn’t teaching others about God’s love or pursuing initiatives to help the children in U4O’s programs, Joe can be found surfing, drinking coffee and exploring other cultures.

BOARD MEMBER | EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Upon graduating college, Sam started his first young adult Bible study in Illinois and that is where he first tasted the power of Christ-centered community. After moving to San Diego to find the perfect wave in 2015, Sam deepened his leadership muscle under the discipleship of Joe Brandi. This Timothy-Paul relationship sparked an emphasis in the 242 methodology of ‘disciples raising disciples’. Concurrently, Sam led and taught the Middle School Ministry at La Jolla Christian Fellowship and started two Bible studies in the beginning of COVID. After getting married to Emily in August 2022, a new couples ministry was born with the intention of deepening the mindset of ‘spiritual family on mission’.

During the week, Sam is a Sr. Talent Acquisition Partner at Compassion International with the mission of releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name. Sam finds joy in catching waves, snowboarding down summits and quiet campfires with Emily.

BOARD MEMBER | SECRETARY

Derek has shared God's love among the marginalized, oppressed, and displaced for over 20 years. This passion has taken him all over the world which included living overseas with his family for a time serving refugees fleeing the Middle East. Derek spends his days leading a non-profit that serves refugee communities and inviting people to find and follow Jesus.

Derek has been married for over 25 years and has two beautiful daughters.

Derek loves training Jiu-Jitsu and researching how web3 / blockchain can be leveraged to help refugees rebuild their lives. He loves to travel and meet new friends from diverse cultures.

Derek’s formal eduction includes graduate degrees in theology, philosophy, and education.