Meet Our Board
Dwight Hargrove, Chair
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Contact Information:
Email: bhargrove5675@gmail.com
Phone: 540-538-3575
Address: 9766 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, VA 22553
Dwight David Hargrove, a beacon of faith and wisdom, exemplifies the essence of a faithful and
wise steward as hailed in Luke 12:42. With a life dedicated to service, both divine and secular,
he stands as a paragon of leadership, particularly in the non-profit sector. As the Chairman of the
Board for a prominent non-profit organization, Hargrove’s journey from the pastoral ministry to
a distinguished career in computer technology and management underscores his diverse skill set
and unwavering commitment to societal upliftment.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, Hargrove’s spiritual and leadership foundations were laid early at
Trinity Baptist Church. His active involvement in various church ministries not only honed his
spiritual gifts but also instilled in him a profound sense of community service. This early
exposure paved the way for his eventual calling to the pastoral ministry at Zion Hill Baptist
Church, where he has been a guiding light, embodying the principles of holistic teaching and
preaching, with an overarching goal of winning souls to Christ without prejudice.
Hargrove’s academic and professional trajectories are equally impressive. A holder of a Master
of Divinity from the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University, and
an A.A.S degree in Electronics Engineering from Germanna Community College, he is currently
enriching his knowledge with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a minor in
Cybersecurity. His military service in the United States Marine Corps further complements his
leadership and organizational skills.
In the realm of professional endeavors, Hargrove’s over 40 years in telecommunications
operations and management, particularly within the utility sector, have been marked by
significant achievements. As a Voice Services Administrator at Rappahannock Electric
Cooperative, his strategic leadership in implementing advanced telecommunications systems has
not only enhanced operational efficiency but also substantially reduced costs, showcasing his
expertise in leveraging technology for organizational improvement.
Hargrove’s non-profit work is driven by a commitment to service, education, and community
empowerment. His roles as an adjunct professor, a pastor, and a small business owner reflect his
multifaceted approach to leadership and his dedication to fostering growth and development in
others. His vision for the non-profit sector is clear: to create sustainable, impactful initiatives that
address the holistic needs of communities, guided by the principles of integrity, compassion, and
innovation.
As the Chairman of the Board, Hargrove brings a unique blend of spiritual leadership, technical
expertise, and a heart for community service. His professional profile is a testament to his ability
to navigate and unify the worlds of technology, education, and faith-based service. Under his
guidance, the non-profit aims to expand its reach, deepen its impact, and continue serving as a
beacon of hope and transformation in the community.
Dwight D. Hargrove’s life and career are a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, as he
continues to lead with distinction, embodying the virtues of a true servant leader in every
endeavor
Thia Fox, Co-Chair
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Ms. Fox is the daughter of U.S. Army Retired Chief Warrant Officer/Master Parachutist and Red Cap Rigger – 82nd Airborne Gerald L. Fox (deceased) and Audreylee M. Fox. She is the proud Mother of a daughter, Cydney Fox (27) and currently lives in Waldorf, Maryland.
Born in Spotsylvania County, Virginia, Ms. Fox grew up there and lived with her family on various U.S. Army military bases. By seeing so much along the journey – it gave her an enormous appreciation for how others lived and worked together.
Ms. Fox’s family is deeply rooted in her home church, that was built by her family, Zion Hill Baptist Church in Spotsylvania County on the same road, also named for her family (Cooktown Road) where her family still lives. Her Grandmother, Martha Lawson, owned a bakery & restaurant and was one of a few black-owned businesses in Fredericksburg, VA in the early to late 60’s.
Ms. Fox brings to the Council over 30 years of experience working in the Federal Sector (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, HQ); Seafarers International Union (Legal); American Bankers Association (Fingerprint Division); United Way of America, HQ; Thomas Havey & Associates (Accounting); Private Family Foundation and Bombardier Aerospace (Montreal, Canada).
Laurie Strother, Secretary
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Laurie Strother, a native of Los Angeles, CA, holds an undergraduate degree in Human Development with a concentration in Education from Pacific Oaks College. She furthered her education by earning a Master’s in Human Service Counseling- Marriage and Family from Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. With over 20 years of experience as an Early Childhood and Extended Learning Teacher, Laurie’s passion for education led her to establish her own home daycare upon relocating to the Spotsylvania area.
Driven by a desire to support families beyond traditional teaching roles, Laurie transitioned into the role of a Family Support Specialist with Healthy Families Rappahannock Area (HFRA) in 2016. Through HFRA, a nationwide non-profit organization, Laurie has empowered numerous parents to confront and overcome generational trauma, nurture self-love, and strive for personal growth. Recognizing the importance of understanding one’s self-worth, Laurie firmly believes in fostering pride within individuals to positively influence their communities. Currently serving as a Supervisor at HFRA, Laurie has mentored and trained several Family Support Specialists to extend the organization’s impact within the community. Additionally, she takes joy in coordinating networking and community events for HFRA.
Excited to embark on a new chapter with C.A.R.E CDC, Laurie remains committed to her role as a supportive pillar for families in need. Beyond her professional endeavors, Laurie finds fulfillment in her roles as the wife of Min. Keith Strother and as the mother of four daughters: Shadae (28), Jada (24), Sanaia (17), and Keri (10).
Angela Woolfolk, Treasurer
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Responsible for monitoring the budget. Reports organization’s financial health.
Linda Toppin, Member
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Linda A. Toppin, is a native New Yorker who has traveled as a military wife over 20 years to many places with Fredericksburg, VA being the last stop. Preparing for the next phase of her life, she relocated to Fairburn, GA.
The proud mother of two, and Nana of five, decided to prepare for her third career in Real Estate in 2007. Linda has a heart of service. She has 19 years in Real Estate; over 30 years of Federal service, 6 years a Director for a non-profit organization assisting families in saving their homes from foreclosure, in Fredericksburg, VA.
She has assisted community members in their goal of home ownership through teaching classes in Financial Management, First Time Homebuyers, and connecting them to the lender who can assist with their desires of home ownership.
Linda is constantly learning to better serve and assist in owning homes. She holds a B.S. in
Business Management, from University of Phoenix; and is a Certified Real Estate Instructor in both Georgia and Virginia.
Christopher Stewart, Member
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Mr. Stewart is a dedicated and detailed oriented Software Engineer with 25 years of accumulated professional experience. A Youth Coach with 15 years of experience to include 8 years as President and Lead Coach of VA Truth Basketball.
He has a driven desire to utilize his professional Engineering skills to support community improvement projects. With a specific motivation in mentoring the youth.