ABOUT US

ABOUT MK

MK, also known as “Mindset Kidz,” is a non-profit organization with a mission to support and educate disconnected youth in North Carolina. The organization specifically targets youth from rural communities who have faced trauma and have had experience with child welfare or the juvenile justice system. MK recognizes the unique challenges these young people face and aims to provide a platform for growth and change. Through mentorship and support, MK seeks to address issues such as unhealthy relationships, gang involvement, bullying, and poverty. Founded in 2019, MK is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of these young people, enabling them to unlock their full potential and achieve success. The work of MK is crucial in creating a brighter future for North Carolina’s youth and helping them to overcome the obstacles they face.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dominique Thompson, Board Chair

Dominique Thompson is an Information Technology (IT) Professional, high school footballcoach, and certified trainer. Dominique has worked in the IT field for 9+ years with data systems, data analytics, and reporting. Prior to a career in (IT) Dominique had an NFL career as a widereceiver. Dominique played for two teams the Saint Louis Rams and the Carolina Panthers from2005 – 2008. Dominique holds various degrees and certifications which include Education: BA Economics (2005) College of William & Mary, Masters – Business Administration (2012) Capella University. Fitness Certifications: ISSA Master Elite Trainer, IFTA Group Fitness Certification.

Dominique was born in Fort Polk, Louisiana where his father was currently stationed while serving in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne. Dominique was raised in North Carolina. Dominique learned the value of hard work at an early age growing up in Durham, NC, as the second of three children. Dominique’s entire extended family was influential throughout his childhood. His families own farmland in Bladen County, NC where Dominique spent many summers learning what hard work was by working on the farm, which taught him a great work ethic and self- respect of self and others. Dominique was blessed to have the opportunity to learn from the elders in his family on how to live and farm off the land that the Creator made for his chosen ones. Dominique has been happily married for 7 years to his beautiful wife Stacey. They have three blessed teenagers Makayla, Matthew & Amari. Besides his wife, parents, & familyDominique credits all his success in life to the Creator.

Dominique brings a unique perspective from his life experience in IT – analytics, athletics,upbringing, and fitness. Dominique is passionate and committed to helping others achieve an overall healthier lifestyle in Mind, Spirit, & Will. Dominique knows that life is a journey, not simply a destination. This perspective has inspired him to learn, seek, study, develop, motivate,and live life daily to empower those around for the greater good so we all share and achieve greater success!

Aleshea Harris, Treasurer

Aleshea Harris has over 25+ years of childcare experience and has ran, assisted or worked with 5 star centers across the state. The last 22 years she has been in the early childhood education field, in a management/supervisory role since 2003. She has worked and have relationships with the NC Food Program that will provide the food for the facility. Ms. Harris is very familiar with the importance of early childhood education and has become a key resource to child care providers all across the state.

Craig Dawson, Secretary
Craig Dawson is an Assistant Director of Admission and Head Varsity Basketball Coach at Woodberry Forest School.  Craig has been instrumental in rebuilding the Tiger basketball program and has led them to four appearances in the VISAA State Tournament and an Elite Eight finish in 2023.  In 2018, Dawson was named the Virginia Prep League Coach of the Year.  Prior to his time at WFS, Craig taught and coached at Forsyth Country Day School (NC) for eight years.  During those years, Craig coached middle school boys, JV boys, Varsity girls, and Varsity boys’ basketball.  Dawson is the only coach in FCDS program history to lead the girls’ and boys’ programs to a 20-win season, conference championship, and an NCISAA state Final Four appearance while being named PACIS Coach of the Year.   
 
Prior to his coaching career, Dawson was a four-year letterman at Wake Forest University (’02).  Dawson became the 40th Demon Deacon to join the 1,000-point club in 2002.  He left Winston-Salem with 1,342 points and also tied for the ACC record and set a WFU record with 11 three-pointers in a game his season.  He also led the ACC with a 44 percent shooting percentage on 3-pointers.  
 
At Kinston High School, Dawson’s scoring prowess had no limits.  Craig is Kinston’s all-time leading scorer with 2,182 points in only three seasons.  He also added 537 rebounds, 287 steals, and 150 steals.  He scored more than 40 points in a game 10 times and holds the KHS record for points in a game with 46.  One night, Dawson scored 28 points in the fourth quarter, the third-most points in a quarter in NCHSAA history.  He was a three-year Varsity letterman, two-time team captain, two-time Kinston-Free Press Player of the Year, two-time conference player of the year, two-time All-State, and two-time winner of the Frank Mock Award (KHS athlete of the year.  Following graduation from KHS, Daws was named the East-West All-Star Game MVP after knocking in 34 points.  That was good for second all-time only to the legend “Pistol” Pete Maravich (42 points). 
Geraldine Yancey

Geraldine Yancey’s passion for caring for seniors shines throughout the assisted living community she leads and carries beyond its doors throughout the entire community of Roxboro, NC. Serving as the Executive Director of Canterbury House Assisted Living for 22 years, Yancey has become a well-known figure in her home community.

Yancey was raised by her grandparents, who instilled in her a strong work ethic, a mindset of kindness and empathy, and a heart for caring for others.

“They taught me to helpful and kind to all people,” Yancey said of her grandparents. “They were wonderful people. As they aged, I had to help take care of them, and I learned through that, too. I realized very quick in this job that I had to be passionate about what I’m doing, about caring for seniors, and I really always have been.”

Yancey’s passion for her work carries throughout Canterbury House. She takes great pride in her work, her community, and her team of caregivers. She personally interviews each candidate who applies to work there. She is proud to guide them and help them grow in their careers, but there is one thing every applicant must have.

“You’ve got to have a genuine love for the seniors if you’re going to come here and work,” Yancey said. “This isn’t just a job. This is our residents’ home, and we are here to care for them in their home. You have to love them and love caring for them – those are the only people I’m going to have working here.”

Yancey began her senior living career 44 years ago at the age of 21. She worked as a cook at the local nursing home. She also worked as an activity director/med tech. Yancey has worked her way through the ranks and took the lead of Canterbury House in 1999 as the Executive Director. She helps other sister communities nearby with operations and leadership, and works with administrators-in-training as well.

Earl Vaughan

Earl Vaughan is a devoted father of two and a compassionate healthcare professional with over 21 years of experience as an Activity Director and PCA. Throughout his career, he has also served on the Safety Committee and Sharps Committee, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for both residents and staff. Earl has a genuine love for youth and the elderly, and for the past five years, he has proudly volunteered with the LEAD program to continue making a positive impact in his community. Outside of work, he enjoys interior decorating and thrifting, creatively transforming everyday finds into something special. Above all, family means everything to him and remains at the heart of all he does.

Kelvin M. Miles

Kelvin M. Miles is a lifelong North Carolinian with more than forty years in the Raleigh area and over three decades of dedicated service to the State of North Carolina. As an Administrative Assistant with the Department of the Secretary of State, he manages the processing and filing of notary, UCC, charitable solicitation, and trademark applications, along with state payment records. He is also licensed as a Life Insurance Producer, helping families plan for final expenses and long‑term financial security, and has served 25 years in ministry as a licensed clergy member. He currently serves as Chaplain for the Fayetteville State University Alumni Gospel Choir. Across his professional and ministry roles, Kelvin is known for his compassion, integrity, and “social worker’s heart.” He is deeply committed to uplifting others and supporting people in reaching their full potential. Kelvin strongly aligns with the mission of Mindset Kidz and would be honored to contribute his experience and dedication to its work.