Raised in extreme poverty, Mr. Brown endured unthinkable hardships as a child. It was only through the grace of God and the services of several amazing community organizations that he was able to make it out and become the success story that he is today. It is for that reason that Mr. Brown started Urban Awareness USA, a 501c3 nonprofit that helps other nonprofits, social impact businesses & churches secure the funding and resources needed to better serve their community.

With more than 20 years of experience in Nonprofit Management and Development, Ty is a Certified Nonprofit Consultant, holding formal degrees and training in psychology, public health, and community health education. As Chief Consultant for Urban Awareness USA, to date, Ty is responsible for well over $500 million dollars in funding awards and support from private foundations, corporate sponsors and federally recognized agencies including CDC, SAMHSA and more.

With more than 20 years of experience as a Social Impact Strategist, Tracy has deployed her unique skills and vast experience to help social entrepreneurs build and grow sustainable infrastructures. From social enterprise development, non-grant€ revenue development, staff development, and creating simple six figure fundraising campaigns, Tracy helps organizations put the pieces together to transform mere ideas into generational impact.

With more than 15 years of experience in Nonprofit Bookkeeping & Accounting, Jen holds a Bachelors Degree from Georgia State University and a MBA from South University. As the Nonprofit Bookkeeping and Accounting Expert for Urban Awareness USA, Jen helps nonprofit founders and leaders to manage their organizations finances effectively, satisfy board members and funding sources and comply with the IRS.

With over 20 years of experience in Nonprofit Fundraising, Carla is a Certified Fundraising Executive. She graduated Valedictorian from Lincoln University, holds a MBA from the University of Delaware, and has an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Hood Theological Seminary. Carla has helped raise over one billion dollars. Throughout her career, Carla has worked with celebrities, pastors & CEOs including Warren Buffet, Denzel Washington, Oprah Winfrey, Ted Turner, Patti Labelle, BET€s Bob Johnson, Quincy Jones, and many Nobel Laureates.

With 10 years of experience in Nonprofit Management and Board Development, Jaemellah holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management and a Master's Degree in Nonprofit & Association Management. As the Nonprofit Start-Up & Board Development Expert for Urban Awareness USA, Jaemellah assists aspiring and new nonprofit founders in building successful nonprofits founded on sound principles. Jaemellah also provides support services to nonprofit boards of all sizes and experience levels, helping them transition from vision to implementation to impact.

With 9 years of experience in social media marketing and branding, Majah holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from the University of Louisiana Monroe. As the Nonprofit Marketing and Branding Expert for Urban Awareness USA, Majah assists nonprofits, churches, and social impact organizations in communicating their impact and promoting their brands. This enables them to attract larger and more consistent funding to support their work.

With more than 25 years of experience practicing law, Toni is a Wealth Building Attorney and Business Strategist. She specializes in business structuring, nonprofit development, asset protection, succession planning, and IRS compliance. Serving as the Nonprofit Legal Expert for Urban Awareness USA, Toni aids organizations in implementing her 7-Figure Nonprofit Business Model. This model is utilized by some of America's wealthiest and most recognizable nonprofits, including Feeding America, The Salvation Army, the American Red Cross, and more.

As the most successful member of Urban Awareness USA, Dr. Annise Mabry has secured nearly $14 million in grant funding in just over 12 months for her nonprofit organization, the Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation.

Jermaine Lewis, Sr. serves as Director of Engagement & Entertainment for the Funding Your Mission Conference, bringing creativity, energy, and connection to the event experience. A multiple-time Amazon best-selling author, Jermaine is also founder of WeWill, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth in his community. Known for his powerful spoken word performances and dramatic presentations for churches across Hampton Roads, he blends artistry with impact. Beyond writing and speaking, Jermaine is recognized as one of the top barbers in the region, serving clients around the world. A husband and father of five, his family remains his greatest motivation.

Travoris "TC" Carnes is the Director of Urban Awareness USA, a national training and consulting network serving over 10,000 nonprofits and reaching 60,000+ subscribers. A former collegiate football standout and professional athlete, TC carried his discipline from the field into business, leadership, and ministry. He is the visionary behind the Funding Your Mission Conference and also serves as Director of Stewardship and Finance at Gethsemane Community Fellowship Baptist Church in Norfolk, VA. Known for equipping leaders to build sustainable organizations, TC lives in Carrollton, VA with his wife, Lisa, and their three children - Camren, Simone, and Austin.

Mark Brooks, The Stewardship Coach, has helped churches raise over $1 billion dollars by equipping leaders to build cultures of generosity rooted in biblical stewardship. A former pastor turned national strategist, Mark is the go-to voice when offerings stall and vision needs fuel. He has worked alongside America's most influential pastors, including Joel Osteen and Ralph West, and is known for delivering sharp, practical insights that move giving from routine to transformational. Mark and his wife of 48 years, Valerie, live in Broken Arrow, OK, where they remain active in ministry and community life.

Lisa Carnes serves as Conference Director for the Funding Your Mission Conference, overseeing the on-site experience and ensuring every detail runs with excellence. A championship-winning high school track & field coach in Virginia, she has led multiple teams to state titles and is widely respected for her ability to inspire and organize. Beyond athletics, Lisa is an accomplished entrepreneur who has co-founded and managed successful businesses with her husband, Travoris "TC" Carnes. Her leadership extends into nonprofit and faith-based initiatives, where she is known for her commitment to building strong families and thriving communities. Lisa lives in Carrollton, VA with TC and their three children - Camren, Simone, and Austin.

Erika Perry is a valued member of the Urban Awareness USA team, where she works closely with coaching group members to ensure they have the tools and support needed to succeed in programs. Beyond her role in member engagement, Erika is a renowned coach in youth development and engagement within her local community. Widely loved and respected, she brings passion, care, and dedication to every relationship she builds. Erika's work reflects her commitment to empowering individuals and helping organizations thrive, making her an integral part of the Urban Awareness family.

David "Dae-Lee" Arrington is a Trust-Based Philanthropy Expert, 40 Under 40 Business Journal Honoree, GRAMMY-nominated producer, and respected community leader. His unique journey "from the corner to the cul-de-sac" fuels his passion for bridging divides and creating opportunities for authentic connection. With more than 20 years of experience leveraging the power of music to bring diverse people together, David launched Bridge Builder Consulting™ to equip leaders in cultivating genuine relationships and leveraging their influence to build unity across difference. His work inspires organizations and communities to move beyond barriers, embrace diversity, and foster lasting, meaningful impact.

Leon Anderson, Jr. plays a vital role in keeping Urban Awareness USA moving forward by supporting members and ensuring they receive the highest level of service. Known for his dedication, reliability, and "get it done" approach, Leon helps manage customer service, troubleshoot member needs, and strengthen the day-to-day operations that power Urban Awareness' impact. His commitment to excellence and support allows the organization to serve thousands of nonprofits and churches nationwide with consistency and care.

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A healthy, high-performing board doesn't happen by accident - it happens through honest conversation. In this session, you'll learn the ten critical discussions every nonprofit board must have to stay aligned, accountable, and effective. From governance and fundraising to mission clarity and leadership transitions, discover how to create a culture of trust and shared responsibility that fuels long-term success.

Discover how artificial intelligence is transforming the grant writing process for nonprofits of all sizes. In this practical, hands-on session, you'll learn how to leverage AI tools to generate strong first drafts, organize proposals, streamline research, and free up your time for strategy and relationships. Whether you're a beginner or experienced grant writer, you'll walk away with time-saving tips and proven strategies to improve your success rate while reducing stress.

Tired of complicated marketing plans that don't deliver? In this session, you'll learn clear, practical marketing strategies that actually work for nonprofits. Discover how to clarify your message, attract supporters, and build consistent engagement without wasting time or money. Perfect for small to midsize organizations ready to grow their audience and funding.

Relationships are the real currency of fundraising. In this session, you'll learn how to apply the principles of trust-based philanthropy to build genuine, lasting connections with funders. Discover how authentic leadership, transparency, and mutual respect open doors to long-term partnerships - helping your organization move from transactional fundraising to transformational relationships that sustain your mission.

Your mission deserves a financial partner who understands it. In this session, you'll learn how community banks and credit unions can offer nonprofits more personalized service, better access to capital, and deeper local relationships than traditional banks. Discover what to look for in a banking partner, how to leverage financial tools built for nonprofits, and how to make your money work harder for your mission.

Strong funding requires strong foundations. In this session, you'll learn how to build the organizational infrastructure that makes funders confident to invest. From financial systems and governance to staffing and technology, discover the behind-the-scenes essentials that drive long-term growth. Walk away with a roadmap to strengthen your operations so your mission isn't just surviving - it's built to last.

A healthy, high-performing board doesn't happen by accident - it happens through honest conversation. In this session, you'll learn the ten critical discussions every nonprofit board must have to stay aligned, accountable, and effective. From governance and fundraising to mission clarity and leadership transitions, discover how to create a culture of trust and shared responsibility that fuels long-term success.

Don't have a full HR department? No problem. This session will show you how to effectively manage human resources with limited staff or budget. Learn simple systems for hiring, onboarding, compliance, and team culture that protect your organization and empower your people. Perfect for small to midsize nonprofits and churches ready to strengthen their internal structure without adding overhead.

You can't pour from an empty cup. This session helps nonprofit and ministry leaders recharge mentally, emotionally, and physically so they can lead from a place of strength. Learn practical strategies for managing stress, maintaining balance, and building healthy habits that sustain both your personal wellbeing and your professional impact.

Young people aren't just the future - they're the key to impact right now. In this session, you'll learn practical strategies to engage youth in your programs, leadership, and community initiatives. Discover how authentic youth involvement leads to better program outcomes, stronger partnerships, and increased funding opportunities from organizations that value next-generation leadership.

Managing people doesn't have to be complicated. In this session, you'll learn the essential HR practices every nonprofit should have in place to stay compliant, reduce risk, and create a healthy workplace culture. From hiring and onboarding to documentation and policies, discover how to protect your organization while empowering your team to do their best work.

Cyber threats are real - and nonprofits are often the easiest targets. In this session, you'll learn simple, affordable steps to protect your organization's data, donors, and reputation. From password protection and phishing prevention to secure systems and staff training, discover how to build a cybersecurity plan that keeps your mission safe.

Artificial Intelligence is changing how nonprofits work - making it easier to save time, streamline tasks, and raise more money. In this session, you'll learn practical ways to use AI for grant writing, marketing, donor engagement, and program management. Walk away with the tools and tactics to get more done with less stress - and position your organization to win more funding in the year ahead.

Tax credits can be a powerful but often overlooked tool for funding community projects. In this session, you'll learn what tax credits are, how they work, and how nonprofits and faith-based organizations can leverage them to attract investors, partners, and new funding streams. Discover real-world examples of how tax credit deals have transformed neighborhoods - and how your organization can do the same.

Your message matters - and podcasting is one of the most powerful ways to share it. In this session, you'll learn how to turn your purpose into a platform by launching, growing, and monetizing your own podcast. From choosing the right format and equipment to building an audience and attracting sponsors, you'll walk away with a clear roadmap to amplify your voice and your mission.

Funding Your Mission for Nonprofits is your roadmap to sustainable growth and greater impact. This dedicated track of breakout sessions is designed to help nonprofit leaders master fundraising, marketing, grants, and organizational development. Learn proven strategies to strengthen your infrastructure, attract more funding, and accelerate your mission - all from experts who understand the unique challenges of nonprofit life.

Funding Your Mission for Churches is designed to help pastors and ministry leaders break free from financial limitations. With a dedicated track of sessions focused on stewardship, fundraising, giving, and community impact, you'll discover practical strategies to fully fund your vision and strengthen your church for the future

Grants can be a game-changer for churches, but only if you know how to find and manage them. In this session, you'll learn practical steps for identifying the right grant opportunities, crafting strong applications, and aligning your ministry vision with funder priorities. Discover how to use grants not just for one-time projects, but to grow and sustain your ministry long-term.

Fully funded churches know how to tell their story. In this session, you’ll discover the marketing and branding strategies thriving ministries use to attract new members, engage their community, and inspire generosity. Learn how to build a brand that communicates trust, vision, and impact - and see why effective marketing is a key driver of sustainable funding.

A thriving ministry requires more than vision - it requires compliance. In this session, you'll uncover the most common legal and financial compliance mistakes that can derail your church's funding potential. Learn how fully funded churches stay protected, build credibility, and avoid costly errors, so your ministry can grow with confidence and security.

Clear, accurate books are the backbone of financial confidence. In this session, you’ll learn practical steps to strengthen your church’s bookkeeping and accounting systems so funders, members, and partners can trust your financial stewardship. Discover how strong financial practices open the door to more funding, better planning, and long-term sustainability.

No youth, no future. In this session, you'll explore practical strategies to engage and empower the next generation in your church. Learn how to create meaningful programs, build authentic relationships, and inspire youth to become active participants in ministry. Discover how youth engagement not only drives growth today, but also secures long-term giving and support for tomorrow.

Funding your church shouldn't mean constant pressure or fatigue. In this session, you’ll learn proven strategies to grow giving, inspire generosity, and sustain ministry without guilt-driven appeals or burnout. Discover practical systems that help pastors and leaders cultivate cheerful givers, manage finances wisely, and build long-term stability - so you can focus on ministry, not money stress.

Imagine ministry without financial stress. In this session, you'll learn practical strategies to fully fund your church's vision in 2026 and beyond. From cultivating a culture of generosity to designing seasonal stewardship campaigns that inspire consistent giving, you'll discover proven approaches to sustain ministry, expand outreach, and release your church from the constant worry of "how will we pay for it?"

No youth, no future. In this session, you'll explore practical strategies to engage and empower the next generation in your church. Learn how to create meaningful programs, build authentic relationships, and inspire youth to take ownership of ministry. Discover how intentional youth engagement drives church growth, strengthens giving, and ensures long-term support for your vision.

Financial integrity builds trust - and trust attracts funding. In this session, you'll learn how to strengthen your church's bookkeeping and accounting systems so funders, members, and partners can have full confidence in your stewardship. Discover simple, practical steps to organize your finances, avoid costly mistakes, and position your ministry for growth and greater giving.

Fully funded churches know how to tell their story. In this session, you'll uncover the marketing and branding principles thriving ministries use to attract new members, engage their community, and inspire generosity. Learn how to clarify your message, strengthen your visual identity, and communicate your mission with excellence - so your church stands out for all the right reasons.

A strong church isn't just funded - it's protected. In this session, you'll uncover the most common legal and compliance mistakes that can jeopardize your church's growth and funding. Learn how to safeguard your ministry, stay IRS-compliant, and strengthen the trust that keeps donors, members, and partners confident in your leadership.

Grants aren't just for nonprofits — they can fuel ministry too. In this session, you'll learn how churches can identify, apply for, and manage grants that align with their mission. Discover how to position your church as a trusted community partner, build relationships with funders, and use grant funding to expand programs, serve more people, and strengthen your financial foundation.

Stop spending hours searching for grants — let AI do the heavy lifting. In this session, you’ll learn how to use artificial intelligence tools to identify the right funders faster, analyze opportunities more effectively, and uncover matches that align perfectly with your mission. Discover how to save time, reduce research fatigue, and build a smarter, more strategic funding pipeline

Cletus Kassady is one of the most dynamic clean comedians in America — full of energy, insight, and heart. Known for his role as Deacon Charles on the hit BET+ series Churchy, Cletus has entertained audiences nationwide with his sharp wit and relatable humor. From churches and colleges to corporate events and comedy tours, his comedy bridges faith, family, and real-life moments that keep audiences laughing nonstop. Cletus has shared stages with legends like Mike Epps, KevOnStage, Tony Baker, D.L. Hughley, and Jonathan McReynolds — and continues to prove that clean comedy can still bring the house down.

A powerhouse performer with undeniable stage presence, Anguz Black has been setting audiences on fire across the country. Featured on Martin Lawrence Presents: 1st Amendment Stand-Up and seen alongside top talents like Kevin Hart, Cedric the Entertainer, Sommore, and Mo’Nique, Anguz blends raw humor, real stories, and charisma that commands the room. He’s also toured with icons in music including T.I., Rick Ross, and New Edition, showing his crossover appeal and star power. Whether he’s making you laugh, think, or both, Anguz Black delivers a show that leaves a mark long after the mic drops.

Slater Joel is a Hampton Roads native whose gift for music and ministry has taken him around the world. A Stellar Award-winning worship leader and recording artist, Slater has shared the stage with gospel greats including Michael W. Smith and Earl Bynum. Known for his soulful voice and authentic worship, he brings passion, purpose, and praise to every platform. When he’s not touring internationally, Slater pours into worship and arts ministries across Hampton Roads — leading others into powerful encounters through music that moves both hearts and heaven.

Part comedian, part poet, and 100% truth-teller — Jermaine Lewis is a master storyteller who brings humor, honesty, and heart to the stage. A proud Hampton native, Jermaine’s unique blend of stand-up and spoken word captures life’s real moments with laughter and depth. A Norfolk State University graduate, former teacher, and now one of the area’s most sought-after barbers, Jermaine draws from his life as a husband, father of five, and community leader to deliver stories that hit home. His words paint vivid pictures — sometimes funny, sometimes moving — but always unforgettable.