Tirus T. Tholen is the Founder and Director of Team Jesus Africa, where he leads the organization’s mission to empower underprivileged children and communities through education, mentorship, and faith-based outreach. With a passion for servant leadership and community transformation, Tirus is committed to creating sustainable opportunities that help individuals and families thrive.

Tirus is a U.S. Army veteran, Army Reserve Chaplain Candidate, and ministry leader with experience in pastoral care, crisis response, counseling, and leadership development. His professional background includes military leadership, case management, re-entry counseling, and ministry outreach, equipping him to serve individuals from diverse and vulnerable communities with compassion and integrity.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Criminal Justice from the University of Arizona Global Campus and a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Chaplaincy from Campbell University. Through both ministry and nonprofit leadership, Tirus has remained dedicated to supporting at-risk individuals, strengthening communities, and providing faith-centered guidance and care.

As Director of Team Jesus Africa, Tirus works to advance the organization’s vision of expanding educational access, providing spiritual encouragement, and supporting communities for children and families in Liberia and beyond.

To connect with Tirus, please email:
tholentirus1@gmail.com

Chaplain (CPT) Charles D. Chaney Jr. serves as an Army Chaplain and brings a passion for faith-based leadership, mentorship, and community outreach to Team Jesus Africa. He began his military career in 2012 as a Behavioral Health Specialist before later commissioning into the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps through the Chaplain Candidate Program.

Chaplain Chaney earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences from the University of Maryland, University College, and a Master of Divinity from Regent University. His ministry experience, combined with his military service, has equipped him to provide spiritual care, leadership development, and compassionate support to individuals and communities from diverse backgrounds.

As a board member of Team Jesus Africa, he is committed to advancing the organization’s mission of empowering and supporting students and communities through faith, education, and service.

To connect with Charles, please email: mrchaney90@gmail.com 

Creg Gillins is a U.S. Army Reserve Chaplain Candidate, ministry leader, and nonprofit servant with a passion for faith-driven community impact. 

With experience in ministry leadership, pastoral care, and organizational development, Creg brings both compassion and strategic leadership to Team Jesus Africa's mission. His military background has strengthened his leadership, discipline, and ability to serve individuals from diverse communities and backgrounds.

In addition to his nonprofit and ministry work, Creg has experience in business operations, community initiatives, strategic planning, and relationship building. He is passionate about creating sustainable opportunities that empower families and help break cycles of poverty through education, mentorship, and faith-based support.

Creg is committed to serving others with integrity and helping create lasting impact through Christ-centered leadership and community transformation.

To connect with Creg, please email:

cregg16@gmail.com

Casphina E. Sim-Tholen serves as Co-Founder and Assistant Director of Team Jesus Africa, where she helps lead the organization’s mission to empower underprivileged children and families through education, mentorship, and faith-based support. She is passionate about community service, child advocacy, and creating opportunities that strengthen families and promote long-term stability.

Casphina brings experience in early childhood education, social services, and family support. Through her Social work experience, she has gained hands-on experience in child welfare, case management, crisis response, and connecting families with critical community resources. She has also served as a Pre-Kindergarten teacher both in the United States and overseas, helping foster learning and development in diverse environments.

Currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Liberty University, Casphina is committed to compassionate leadership, community outreach, and serving others with integrity. Through Team Jesus Africa, she works to help create sustainable opportunities that positively impact children, families, and communities in Liberia and beyond.

To connect with Casphina, please email:

casphinat@gmail.com

Joe Brewer retired after a successful 38-year career in sales management, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement. He has been married for 45 years and is the proud father of two grown children and grandfather of two grandchildren.

Throughout his professional career and family life, Joe has remained deeply committed to serving his community. His leadership experience includes serving as Vice Chairman of the Lee County Board of Education, President of the Sanford Exchange Club, and Elder and Chairman of the Finance Committee at his church.

Joe is known for his problem-solving mindset, goal-oriented leadership, and passion for helping others. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, spending time with family, and traveling across the United States with his wife.

To connect with Joe, please email: brewer4@windstream.net.