about us 

OUR STORY

“MAD DADS, INC WAS FOUNDED IN MAY 1989 BY A GROUP OF CONCERNED OMAHA, NEBRASKA, AFRICAN MEN AND PARENTS WHO WERE FED UP WITH GANG VIOLENCE AND THE UNMOLESTED FLOW OF ILLEGAL DRUGS IN THEIR COMMUNITY.

MAD DADS ACTIVITIES ARE DESIGNED TO PROMOTE AND DEMONSTRATE POSITIVE IMAGES OF FATHERS ENGAGING AND PROTECTING COMMUNITY, YOUTH AND FAMILIES.”

LEADERSHIP & BOARD MEMBERS

  • Jordan borer nelson

    EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Jordan Borer Nelson was born and raised in South Minneapolis in the Powderhorn neighborhood. He became a product of his environment and fell into a life of drugs and violence that led him to serve 8 years in prison. Through that he found a faith in JESUS CHRIST that helped to transform him into a man who has a desire and a passion to serve the community and create change and equitable solutions in the present and the future. Jordan is a husband and father of 6 beautiful children as well as the founding and current lead pastor of Foundations Church that started in May 2020. 

    612-464-8977    jordanbn@maddadsminneapolis.org
    Linked in: linkedin.com/in/jordan-borer-nelson

  • CHARLES HURD

    C.O.O

    Charles Hurd, an accomplished professional with over two decades of experience in turning around and consulting companies. With a proven track record of success, Charles possesses a keen eye for identifying areas of improvement and devising strategic solutions that drive growth and profitability. His area of expertise lies in optimizing operations, streamlining processes, and fostering an innovative culture within the firms he works with.

    Charles earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of Southern California in 2006 and is a veteran of the United States Navy. Charles has held executive-level positions in several national businesses such as Chick-fil-A, Dave & Busters and Benihana. Charles harbors a deep interest in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) work.

    Charles specializes in supporting entities with annual revenues ranging from $2 million to $12 million, and he is committed to helping businesses reach their full potential while attaining sustainable success. If you are searching for an ideal partner to assist your company in thriving in today's highly competitive market. 

    612-464-8977    charlesh@minneapolismaddads.org

  • ROBERT HARPER

    BOARD TREASURER

    Robert, a South Side Chicago native, has spent over a decade uniting people to invest in marginalized communities. In response to George Floyd’s murder in 2020, he founded R.D.T.H. Consulting to strengthen relationships between organizations and the communities they serve.

    He has built strong cross-sector relationships across Minnesota, leading initiatives like Ascend Twin Cities, which brought together executives from major corporations including Target, 3M, and UnitedHealth Group. As Senior Director at MEDA, Robert helped diverse businesses access over $2M in capital and secure $500M+ in contracts.

    A first-generation college graduate, Robert holds a B.A. in Sociology and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Minnesota. He’s a committed community advocate and mentor, having supported Black and Brown youth through over a dozen local nonprofits.

  • BIANCA DAWKINS

    BOARD MEMBER

    Bianca Dawkins is the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Senior Manager at the Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx, where she is committed to driving meaningful change through inclusive leadership. Based in Minneapolis, MN, Bianca has a passion for building inclusive communities, particularly within the sports industry. With a background shaped by resilience and commitment to empowering others, she works to ensure that DEI initiatives are not just a priority but a strategic business advantage.

    A passionate advocate for inclusion beyond the traditional categories, Bianca is focused on creating spaces where people can show up as their authentic selves. She’s building a data-driven DEI strategy that not only fosters inclusivity but also drives measurable business outcomes. Throughout her career, she’s prioritized community engagement and empowerment,—to leading significant DEI initiatives in the sports industry.

    Bianca’s work matters because it challenges biases, shifts systems, and creates opportunities for those who have historically been excluded. As she continues to elevate DEI efforts, she is also focused on watching her three kids grow and turn into amazing human beings. You can follow Bianca’s journey on LinkedIn and Instagram.

    LinkedIn: (4) Bianca Monique Dawkins | LinkedIn

    Instagram: @realbiancamonique

  • Zachary Smith Sr.

    BOARD CHAIR

    Rev. Zach (a man who wears many hats) has served on the Board of Directors of Mad Dads for the last two years. He currently serves as the President and proud member of the Minnesota Gamma Theta Omega Graduate Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Incorporated.

    Zachary Owner/ Master Barber of Reflections Barbershop located on the Northside, resides in North Minneapolis with his beautiful wife Jade and their two sons. He takes delight in fishing, cooking, cigars and serving God through serving others.

    Matthew 23:11-12

  • ALEXIS ROGERS

    As a dynamic Anchor and Community Relations Manager most recently at KARE 11 News in the Twin Cities, Alexis is not just a storyteller—she’s a force of empowerment. A Murrow and Emmy Award-Winning Storyteller and Culture Connoisseur, she is also the Founder and force of Lisa’s Girls Inc, a leadership and life skills community for BIPOC girls, women and allies.

    From working in newsrooms and communities across the country to creating and hosting the acclaimed Let’s Talk Cincy on WLWT in Cincinnati and revamping an alternative news with a twist show, All Indiana in Indianapolis, she pioneers robust community initiatives, leaving an enduring imprint on city after city.

    A proud graduate of the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism, Alexis is not just a storyteller; she’s a catalyst for change. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and the National Association of Black Journalists, she personifies empowerment in action.

    Alexis doesn’t just report the news; she shapes narratives, sparks change, and inspires action. Prepare to be ignited, informed, authentically connected and empowered by the magnetic presence of Alexis—a visionary leader driving impactful conversations and fostering lasting change.

  • DAVID HAWN

    BOARD MEMBER

    David is a seasoned executive with 30+ years of leadership experience in the nonprofit, education, and financial sectors. He is the founder of DLH Pathways Consulting, where he advises organizations on strategy, leadership, and operational growth.

    David previously led Urban Ventures as President & CEO, driving major initiatives in education, vocational training, and community development. He also served as CEO of ECMC Group, overseeing a $700M organization with a $30B asset portfolio and launching a national nonprofit education network.

    Specializing in interim CEO roles and entrepreneur mentorship, David brings a deep commitment to social impact, economic mobility, and education access. He holds a BA from the University of Minnesota and certifications from the University of St. Thomas, and actively serves on community and nonprofit boards.

  • DARIO OTERO

    PROGRAM DIRECTOR

JORDAN BORER NELSON | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR