Rising Lions Announces Board of Advisors

Mike Ingram

Board of Advisors

Mike is a retired EMT and firefighter whose life has been deeply shaped by a calling to serve others — especially those who have experienced trauma, tragedy, and loss. After years of responding to emergencies and witnessing people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, his commitment to helping others continues long beyond retirement. His Christian faith is the foundation of who he is and how he serves. He believes every person has value, dignity, and a story worth hearing, regardless of the circumstances they may be facing. His years in emergency services exposed him to many forms of trauma, suffering, and death — and taught him that helping people is about more than providing medical care or responding to a crisis. Sometimes the greatest thing we can offer is a listening ear, a compassionate heart, a steady presence, and the reassurance that no one has to face their darkest moments alone. Although retired from active duty, Mike remains dedicated to serving others in whatever capacity God places before him — using the lessons, experiences, and compassion gained throughout his career to encourage, support, and help those navigating trauma, grief, and difficult circumstances. He believes his purpose is not defined by a uniform or a title, but by a willingness to serve.

Jody Chatham

Board of Advisors

Jody Chatham is a husband, father, Christian, law enforcement leader, and lifelong servant of his community. With more than three decades in law enforcement, Jody has dedicated his career to helping others, leading with integrity, and making a difference in the lives of the people he serves. Outside of his career, faith is a central part of his life — he is active in his church, teaches adult Sunday school, and enjoys encouraging others in their walk with Christ. For Jody, life is about faith, family, service, and leaving things — and people — a little better than he found them.

Matt Ridings

Board of Advisors

Matt Ridings is a Christian, father, law enforcement leader, and mentor who believes that life is about more than simply getting through the day. His faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of how he lives, leads, and serves others. Throughout his career, Matt has learned that strength isn't just physical — it takes courage to face difficult things, humility to admit you don't have all the answers, and willingness to stand beside people when they need someone most. He is passionate about helping others grow stronger physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally, and believes that every person has value, every struggle matters, and no one should have to walk through the darkness alone.

Marcus Allred

Board of Advisors

Raised on the mission field, Marcus developed a lifelong foundation of faith, service, and cross-cultural connection. He attended Pensacola Christian College, earning a degree in Criminal Justice, and has served alongside his wife Peggy in their church as a Sunday School teacher while supporting missions throughout their adult lives. Professionally, Marcus spent over 10 years with the Winston-Salem Police Department as a 911 police and fire dispatcher, followed by 13 years with a public safety software company. In 2025, he answered God's calling into full-time ministry with Mission First Alliance as Alliance Coordinator, and shortly after became involved with Rising Lions and one of its local First Responder Bible studies. Today, Marcus serves by connecting with first responders locally and nationally — pointing them to Christ, helping believing first responders understand their identity in Him, and strengthening the leaders on the front lines who reach first responders and their families with the Gospel.

"These men don't just advise Rising Lions. They live the mission."

We are grateful for their wisdom, their service, and their willingness to stand with us as we serve the men and women who run toward the call.