Team Member

Meet Our Team Member

Shawn Kennedy

Board Chair

Shawn is the thought leader behind the Meck Investment Company (MiCo) and the Impact Camp. Shawn’s extensive network and thought leadership was the driving force behind the formation of the MiCo team and his activist mentality is accelerating the execution of the Meck Company vision.

Chris Jenkins

Board Chair

As the Chief Executive Officer of Northside Hurricanes Academic & Athletics Association, established in 2009, I bring over twenty years of dedicated service to the community. I am committed to empowering young girls and boys by positively impacting their attitudes, lifestyles, and self-esteem through academics, athletics, and mentorship. I have built strong, lasting relationships with youth and families through leadership, community engagement, and program development. I bring a strong understanding of strategy development, effective communication, and comprehensive program management, all focused on fostering long-term personal and academic success.

Dr. John T. Crawford

Board member

Civic leader and founder of the Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund (CHASF) that to date has awarded over $2M in scholarships to over 500 students in public housing. John has served the Charlotte community for over 60 years and the Renaissance Community Center was dedicated in his name in 2016. John is an MIT scholar and received an honorary doctorate from UNCC for his stellar service and dedication to the city of Charlotte.

Marcus Kornegay

Board member

A technologist, inventor, and business leader actively involved in driving measurable change in the Charlotte Community. Marcus is committed to the Charlotte Housing Authority Scholarship Fund and advisory boards for organizations in Charlotte that have a focus on social impacts.

Ian Bridgers

Board member

Ian received his Undergraduate Degree from North Carolina A&T State University and his MBA from Elon University. As a board member of this organization, Ian is dedicated to working with, mentoring, and developing the youth of Charlotte in order to provide better overall outcomes for the children of OUR community.

Thomas E.

Chair Member

Thomas E. Underwood brings over 25 years of experience in human services and counseling to his real estate practice, building every client relationship on trust, compassion, and integrity. He earned his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Simmons College in Boston and spent years supporting families as a School Counselor and Athletic Director. Thomas transitioned into real estate, carrying the same calm, client-centered approach into every transaction. Now an accomplished Broker and Owner of Underwood Properties 2, LLC, he is known for his strong communication, attention to detail, and steady guidance. Based in the Lake Norman area, Thomas proudly serves the greater Mecklenburg County region, helping clients navigate buying and selling with confidence.

Cynthia Smith-Perkins (1) (1)

Cynthia Smith-Perkins

Chair Member

Cynthia Smith-Perkins is a Recreation Specialist with the Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Department in Charlotte, NC. She was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and attended Tennessee State University with a graduated B.S. Degree in Health, Physical Education & Recreation. Cynthia's other post-graduate studies include Johnson C. Smith University and University of North Carolina at Charlotte Certification Program. She is a certified personal and biker trainer, meeting and event planner, and a Level 1 USATF Certified Track & Field Official, and the co-founder of the Charlotte Flights and Carolina Swift Track & Field Club. Cynthia is a community volunteer that includes the Hidden Valley Optimist Club, Delta Kapp, and Feeding Charlotte Non-Profit Program.