About Us

Personal Verse I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Management Embry Riddle Aeronautical University As the leader of Live Oaks Ministries, Michael Oaks brings over four decades of distinguished management and technical operations experience including a 27-year career with the United States Air Force. His expertise is the driving force behind the organization's mission to provide educational supplies and support to impoverished children in Barranquilla, Colombia. Mr. Oaks’ academic foundation, combined with his extensive hands-on experience, has equipped him with a unique skill set for managing complex operations with maximum efficiency. During his military service, and subsequent civilian career, he specialized in Flight Simulation and Computer Communications, overseeing sophisticated training systems for critical aircraft, including the Air Force's E-3A, F-4E/G, and F-16C, as well as the US Coast Guard's HH-65 and HU-25. His career was defined by the successful management of large-scale, long-term training systems maintenance contracts and short-term construction and development projects. This experience demanded meticulous planning, strict budget adherence, and the ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure—skills he now applies directly to his leadership at Live Oaks Ministries. At the core of his leadership philosophy is a commitment to operational excellence and fiscal responsibility. Mr. Oaks leverages his background in managing multi-million-dollar contracts to ensure that Live Oaks Ministries operates with unparalleled efficiency. His strategic guidance guarantees that every donated dollar is utilized to its maximum potential, directly translating into greater assistance and more opportunities for the children the organization serves. His technical acumen and proven leadership provide the solid foundation upon which Live Oaks Ministries builds its future and expands its impact.

Personal Verse I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and justice for the poor. Psalm 140:12 University of the Atlantic Bachelor in Education, Modern Languages program/Specialty Spanish-English University of the North Master in Education and Cognition Berenice Pereira serves as the Director of Student Programs for Live Oaks Ministries, where she leads the organization's on-the-ground efforts to support children's education in Barranquilla, Colombia. As a dedicated English teacher at IED Nuestra Senora del Rosario school, she brings invaluable firsthand experience and deep community connections to her role. In her capacity as Director of Student Programs, Berenice Pereira is instrumental in identifying students with the most critical needs and developing tailored support strategies for the children we serve. She oversees the assessment and distribution of educational supplies, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. Her daily presence at the school allows her to provide continuous guidance, mentorship, and emotional support to the children, creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Berenice Pereira combines her professional expertise as an educator with her passion for community service, making her uniquely qualified to bridge the gap between Live Oaks Ministries mission and the real-world needs of Colombian children. Her intimate understanding of the local educational landscape and her genuine commitment to student success have been essential to the organization's impact. As a member of the board of directors, she contributes strategic insights while maintaining her hands-on approach to program implementation, ensuring that Live Oaks Ministries initiatives remain grounded in the actual needs of the community we serve.

Sam Houston State University Bachelor of Science in Education Lamar University Master of Education in Administration Mitzi is a dedicated member of the Live Oaks Ministries Board of Directors, bringing nearly two decades of experience in educational leadership and a profound commitment to Christian ministerial service. With a Master of Education in Administration and a Bachelor of Science, she combines professional expertise with a heart for Christian ministry. Her career includes 12 years in professional education, where she spent five years traveling nationally to train and inspire fellow educators, demonstrating her ability to lead programs for transformative change. For over 15 years, Mitzi has volunteered in children's ministry, now focusing her efforts on family ministry—helping parents and children discover spiritual growth and peace in Christ through life's challenges. Mitzi's unique blend of educational leadership and ministry experience, as well as her extensive experience working with children and families, makes her an invaluable asset to the Live Oaks Ministries Board of Directors, where she contributes strategic insight and compassionate guidance to further the organization's mission.