Staff
Rev. Derek Isaksen – Founder/Executive Director
Rev. Derek Isaksen has served The Free Methodist Denomination since 1991 in various capacities including vision casting, ministry development, church planting, and church health consulting. Using transferable methodology, and a passion for community, Rev. Isaksen successfully implemented a turn-around strategy in a notorious apartment community improving safety, appearance, profitability, and community pride. Rev. Isaksen is also employed by EAH Housing (a non-profit developer and manager of affordable housing) as Central Valley Business Development Manager and Property Supervisor.
Rev. Kathy Isaksen – Co-Founder/Program Director
Rev. Kathy Isaksen has served the Free Methodist Denomination since 1996 as a teacher, speaker, and organizer of ministry and programs. Her former roles as Care Fresno Director (a program of the Fresno Police Department) and Southeast Fresno Weed & Seed Coordinator (a program of the Department of Justice) have given Rev. Isaksen unique experience and expertise in working in high-crime and poverty-stricken neighborhoods.
Pastor Kevin Williams – Youth Pastor
Pastor Kevin Williams bears the distinction of embodying the fruition of Light & Life Urban Ministries’ mission. Having grown up in one the communities served, Pastor Kevin was called to minister back in the community in which he was saved. A third year student at California Christian College, Kevin is moving forward in the ordination process of the Free Methodist Denomination.
Valerie Smith – SLT Coordinator
Valerie Smith began serving as an intern with Light & Life Urban Ministries in 2006. Upon her graduation from Fresno Pacific University, Valerie responded to the call to continue to serve as a full-time staff in 2008. Valerie is the Student Leadership Team Coordinator, developing the ministry leaders of tomorrow.