Thirst Relief is largely staffed and run by a team of committed volunteers. Below is a listing of our current staff members.
Executive Director
As Executive Director, Brent helps establish the strategic direction of the organization, ensures that staff operations effectively support both the current and future needs of the organization and acts as the key liaison with both the Thirst Relief Board of Directors and Advisory Board. Brent has a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from the University of Illinois and brings over ten years of progressive leadership experience within the healthcare industry to the organization, including financial planning and analysis, leadership development, and mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures. Brent is passionate about using his leadership, financial management, and strategic planning capabilities to support Thirst Relief International in its efforts to bring clean drinking water to those in need around the world.
Founder and President
As Founder and President, Jim serves as a visionary and is involved in multiple facets of the organization such as fundraising, business partnerships, leading teams overseas on service trips, and helping to facilitate collaborative efforts between Thirst Relief and other like-minded organizations. Jim and his wife Lara model a cause marketing partnership through their own business (www.davisphotographer.com). As a self employed photographer, Jim offers nine years of entrepreneurial experience in leading and creating his own business. In addition he brings more than 10 years of extensive travel to remote and developing nations where he has seen firsthand both the incredible need and the incredible cure for the world water crisis. As a visionary for Thirst, it is Jim's job to dream big and motivate to action those that want to make a difference in the world. It is with great passion, excitement, and hope that Jim serves as a part of this team effort to save lives and change the world.
Director of Business Relations
As Director of Business Relations, Richard focuses on building relationships with small businesses and corporations interested in partnering with Thirst Relief. Through business-friendly events and programs, as well as personal visits and speaking engagements, Richard helps to raise awareness and secure resources needed to provide safe drinking water. Richard brings 17 years of experience in sales and marketing to Thirst Relief. Richard felt called to serve the organization as a result of educating the financial advisor community about the tremendous opportunities and need for clean drinking water around the world. He holds a B.A. in Business and Economics from Wheaton College and an MBA from The University of Memphis.
Director of Communications
As Director of Communications and Development, Nathan manages the day-to-day operations of Thirst Relief staff and volunteers and co-manages the computer graphic design content for newsletters, marketing and other promotional products. He also oversees Thirst Relief’s marketing and communications efforts and builds relationships with its supporters. Nathan brings leadership experience having previously served as the Director of Communications for a non-profit while managing marketing campaigns and staff. Nathan graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Strategic Communications from The Ohio State University.
Director of Development
As Director of Operations for Thirst Relief International, Jessica ensures that adequate resources are raised to support the organization’s mission. She develops long and short-term plans and implements a yearly cycle of events and campaigns while coordinating fundraising and special events. She also prepares funding requests and reports and manages the computer graphic design content for newsletters, marketing and other promotional products. Jessica brings five years of experience in fundraising, computer graphic design and marketing to her role at Thirst Relief. Jessica studied Business Management at Cedarville University.
