the Team
MEET The Herkos
Dennis and Mary Herko
Executive Director / Missionaries
Dennis and Mary Herko have had a unique journey together. It all began when they were born as next-door neighbors in Ellwood City, PA, and continued when they were married in 1972. After completing their studies at Cincinnati Christian University, the two embarked on a path of Christian service. Dennis became Projects Director of Teen Mission, USA in Lexington, KY from 1977 to 1985 where he initiated a short-term mission ministry, now called Mission Journeys.
Since 1977, they have been doing mission work and making a difference in people’s lives! Dennis and Mary moved to Kingston, Jamaica in 1987 along with their two children (Jason and Krista)
who were 11 years old and 7 years old, at the time.
Their first year in Jamaica, Dennis served as the Youth and Children’s Minister for the Constant Spring Church of Christ. For many years, Dennis then served as Minister with the Hopefield Church of Christ, now called Kencot Christian Fellowship.
The Herko Family (children included) has hosted 114 work teams, worked with 18 congregations island-wide, assisted and ministered to public schools, worked with 2 orphanages, and built homes for needy people (called Houses of Mercy). Dennis and Mary also started a church in Old Harbour, Jamaica. On that church grounds, they built a basketball/multi-purpose court to give young people in the community a productive activity, and built a Preschool/Kindergarten building that hosts SonShine Christian Academy. The purpose of the school is not only education, but to bring students and their parents to Jesus and to His church.
The Herkos continue to partner with SonShine Christian Academy, their main focus is a Disciple Making Ministry “to equip disciple-makers”. They are following Jesus’ command to make disciples found in Matthew 28:19-20 (Therefore go and “make disciples” of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.)
Their dedication and hard work have made an incredible impact on the lives of many people. Through it all, Dennis and Mary have never lost sight of God’s calling in their lives: to serve with love and humility. Their story is a true testimony as to what can happen when two people come together and share a passion for change.
MEET THE BOARD Officers
Christopher Ford
Chairman
Chris Ford is an ambitious, yet humble man with a remarkable story. As the Chief Engineer for Belcan Engineering Group, Inc., in Lexington, Kentucky, Chris has come from humble beginnings to lead a successful career in engineering. Not only does he have impressive accolades from his studies at the University of Kentucky – a Bachelor's and Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering – but he often uses the knowledge he's gained to help others. Since 2014, Chris has served on the Board of Directors of the Herko Family Mission, a non-profit organization dedicated to ministering to children and adults. His service to this organization truly speaks to Chris' admirable character.
Furthermore, Chris attends Southland Christian Church. There, as well as throughout his day-to-day life, Chris exhibits a lighthearted, upbeat personality that further underscores his unique character. It is no wonder that Chris has been able obtain a successful career and make a positive impact on those around him.
Bobby Livesay
Treasurer
Bobby Livesay is a living testament to what hard work and dedication can bring. After graduating from the University of Kentucky in 1995 with honors and a Bachelors degree in Accounting, Bobby quickly set his sights on success. He soon became the Managing Member of The Livesay Group PLLC, a multi-service accounting firm located in Lexington, Kentucky. But that wasn't enough for Bobby - he pushed himself further and took on the role of Managing Partner of Access Remote Technology LLC.
Bobby also finds time to give back to the community he lives in. He is an active member of Southland Christian Church and has served on the Board of Directors of the Herko Family Mission since 2005. His commitment to others and strong faith have helped him stay grounded, no matter how far he rises.
Bobby is truly an example of what you can do when you put your mind to it. He's flown high and made incredible accomplishments, all while staying true to who he is. For Bobby, there's no limit to what he can achieve.