About the Marcus Oliver Foundation
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
The Marcus Oliver Foundation was established to honor the life, faith, and enduring legacy of Marcus J. Oliver, Sr.—a man whose compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Throughout his life, Marcus believed that every person deserves to be seen, encouraged, and given the opportunity to move forward with hope.
Today, that same spirit lives on through the Foundation.
We recognize that grief, unexpected loss, and major life transitions can leave individuals and families feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and alone. Our purpose is to come alongside those walking through these difficult seasons by providing compassionate support, practical resources, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for personal growth. We believe healing happens best when people know they are not alone.
Meet Our Founder: Stephanie Oliver
Dr. Stephanie Oliver is the Founder and Executive Director of The Marcus Oliver Foundation, a nonprofit established to honor the legacy of her late husband, Pastor Marcus Oliver. Together, Stephanie and Marcus dedicated their lives to serving others, strengthening families, and sharing the hope found in God's promise of Jeremiah 29:11—that He has plans to give us hope and a future.
With more than 25 years of leadership experience in both corporate and nonprofit organizations, Dr. Oliver has devoted her career to helping individuals and communities navigate life's challenges with faith, resilience, and purpose. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, a Master of Arts in Practical Theology, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Christian Counseling. She is also a Board Certified Mental Health Coach (BCMHC) through the American Association of Christian Counselors, a Certified Christian Life Coach, and a Lifeforming Growth Coach.
As an author, speaker, counselor, and leadership consultant, Dr. Oliver is passionate about equipping people to experience emotional, spiritual, and personal growth. Her heart for ministry has led her to serve individuals, churches, nonprofits, and businesses by providing compassionate guidance, leadership development, and Christ-centered encouragement.
Through The Marcus Oliver Foundation, Dr. Oliver's vision is to ensure that individuals and families facing grief, trauma, and life-changing circumstances have access to the support they need. The Foundation partners with counselors, churches, and community organizations to provide financial assistance for counseling and connect people with resources that foster lasting healing and hope.
Her prayer is that The Marcus Oliver Foundation will be a beacon of light for those experiencing loss, offering practical support, compassionate care, and the unwavering reminder that no one has to walk through grief alone. By continuing Marcus' legacy of love and service, Dr. Oliver hopes to inspire communities to embrace healing, strengthen relationships, and discover hope for the future through faith in Christ.
More Than a Foundation
The Marcus Oliver Foundation is more than a nonprofit organization—we are a community committed to restoring hope.
Every program, service, and initiative we offer is designed to remind people that their story is not over. Whether someone is grieving the loss of a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, navigating a significant life transition, or simply searching for guidance and encouragement, we strive to be a trusted source of support.
Our work is rooted in compassion, strengthened by faith, and driven by the belief that even life's most difficult moments can become the beginning of healing and renewed purpose.
Our Approach
We understand that every person's journey is unique. There is no single path through grief or life change, which is why we focus on caring for the whole person—not just the immediate need.
Through compassionate relationships, educational opportunities, mentoring, coaching, and practical assistance, we seek to help individuals and families regain confidence, discover hope, and build a strong foundation for the future.
Rather than offering temporary encouragement alone, we strive to equip people with the tools, resources, and support they need to move forward with strength, resilience, and purpose.
The Values That Guide Us
Compassion First
Every person deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and genuine care. We strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals and families feel supported, valued, and encouraged as they navigate life's most difficult seasons with hope and confidence.
Faith That Inspires Hope
Our foundation is rooted in faith and the belief that hope remains possible even in the midst of loss. Guided by Jeremiah 29:11, we encourage others to trust that healing, purpose, and brighter days are still ahead.
Community Matters
No one should have to face grief or life changes alone. We cultivate meaningful relationships that provide encouragement, connection, and practical support, helping individuals and families find strength through a compassionate and caring community.
Service With Purpose
Everything we do is driven by a commitment to serve others with integrity, compassion, and excellence. Through every program, partnership, and interaction, we seek to meet needs while inspiring hope, growth, and lasting transformation for all.
Lasting Impact
Our mission extends beyond providing immediate support during difficult times. We equip individuals and families with valuable resources, guidance, and encouragement that help build resilience, restore confidence, and create opportunities for lasting hope and healing.
A Legacy of Love
Every life we touch reflects the legacy of Marcus Oliver and his heart for serving others. By extending compassion, sharing hope, and investing in meaningful relationships, we continue his vision of making a lasting difference within our communities.
Looking Ahead
As the Marcus Oliver Foundation continues to grow, so does our vision. We are committed to expanding opportunities that strengthen families, encourage young people, support those experiencing grief, and create meaningful partnerships within our communities.
Every life we touch represents another opportunity to continue Marcus Oliver's legacy of compassion, leadership, and service. Together with our volunteers, supporters, and community partners, we are building a future where no one has to face loss or life's challenges without hope.
We invite you to become part of that mission. Whether you volunteer, partner with us, support our programs, or simply share our story, you help extend a legacy of healing that reaches far beyond today.
Our Board Members
Dr. Stephanie Oliver
Founder & CEO
Dr. Oliver started the Marcus Oliver Foundation as a way to carry on the legacy of her late husband Pastor Marcus Oliver. She and Pastor Marcus devoted their lives to loving people and helping others live the truth of Jeremiah 29:11. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marketing, a Master of Arts in Practical Theology, and a PhD in Clinical Christian Counseling. She has served as an organizational leader and consultant in corporate and non-profit environments.
Her prayer is that the Marcus Oliver Foundation will become a beacon of light to those that are in need of encouragement and support, and that the programs and partnerships that come out of this effort helps communities, families, and individuals navigate transition and change with hope.
Jimmy D. Christian
Board Member
Jimmy D. Christian serves as Partner and COO at Kazi Ventures, LLC, where he plays a pivotal role in overseeing company operations and project management, while also cultivating and maintaining client relationships. His career began after graduating from the University of Louisiana, Monroe, where he embarked on a successful path in automotive operations.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Jimmy is dedicated to his community and faith. He became an ordained deacon at his church in Novi, Michigan, and remains an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, contributing as a past chapter chaplain. Family holds a central place in Jimmy's life; he takes joy in his marriage, two children, and seven grandchildren.
During his leisure time, Jimmy enjoys playing golf. He finds personal resonance in the mission of The Marcus Oliver Foundation, which mirrors his commitment to supporting others in their times of need.
Dr. Noёl Pretila
Board Member
Noël, most aptly known as Marcus's roommate at Oral Roberts University, pursued his passion for business with a degree in International Business ('95) from ORU and an MBA in Marketing ('97) from Texas Christian University. After several years in pharmaceutical sales, he felt called to theological studies, earning a Master of Theology (Th.M) in Historical Theology ('06) from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Ph.D. in Historical Theology ('12) from Saint Louis University.
Currently, Noël serves as a dedicated high school Theology teacher and Department Chair at Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis, MO. His decision to join The Marcus Oliver Foundation stems from his deep respect for Marcus's vision of unlocking greatness in others.
Carolyn Oliver
Board Member
Carolyn Oliver is a member of the Oliver Family and is deeply committed to the mission of The Marcus Oliver Foundation. Carolyn holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Biochemistry from Oral Roberts University. Currently, she serves the community as a health external in preparation for her career as a Physician's Assistant.
She is grateful for the opportunity to serve on the board and looks forward to contributing to the continuation of her father's legacy through the organization's mission and vision.
Christopher Blue
Board Member
Christopher Blue is an experienced educator with a passion for teaching, having dedicated his career to enriching the minds of students in Gwinnett County Public Schools since 2002. Beyond the classroom, Christopher finds joy in exploring new destinations through travel and immersing himself in the world of entertainment, particularly enjoying movies and theater productions. Additionally, he is heavily involved in his local church, where he has faithfully served for over a decade, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth.
Christopher is deeply drawn to The Marcus Oliver Foundation's mission of providing comprehensive support to individuals and families navigating sudden loss or life changes. He is eager to contribute his skills and experiences to the board, helping to shape programs that provide not only practical support but also the emotional and spiritual encouragement needed to move forward. This opportunity represents Christopher's commitment to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.
Kimberly Blue
Board Member
Kimberly Blue, based in Atlanta, GA, is a dedicated music educator with 18 years of experience teaching all grade levels. She holds a Bachelor's of Music from Spelman College (1999) and a Bachelor's of Music Therapy and Certificate in Music Education from Georgia College & State University (2009). A professional singer, Kimberly has performed with esteemed groups such as the Atlanta Opera, Capital City Opera, Opera Comique, Americolor Opera, and the Trey Clegg Singers. With a robust career spanning 20 years, she has graced stages across America and Europe with her opera performances.
In addition to her musical endeavors, Kimberly was ordained in ministry in 2009 at the Straight Life Church of God, Inc., where she has served as an organist and minister of music for over a decade, and also spent a year as a youth minister. Her multifaceted talents and commitment to both music and ministry make her a valuable asset to The Marcus Oliver Foundation. Kimberly chose to serve on the board of The Marcus Oliver Foundation because of her deep commitment to the cause and mission of the foundation.