Mr. Wayne Abele, Sr.
4112 Oakland Dr., Morganton, NC 28655
828.430.4358
Mr. Abele holds the franchise for Abele’s restaurant and is a County Commissioner for Burke County, North Carolina. He has been a small business owner for thirty-five years. Mr. Abele was the Burke County United Way President in 2004. He serves on 18 local boards, many of which focus on youth. He serves as a member of the N. C. State Board of Tourism and Travel.

Mr. Oscar Tate
3795 St. Paul’s Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655
828.584.2775
Mr. Tate is a retired barber and a proud Vietnam veteran. In addition to his service for The Outreach Center, Mr. Tate is active with the Burke County Historical Society, prison ministry, and Caring Hearts Mission Outreach. Mr. Tate shares insight and focus regarding African American and minority issues.

Reverend Ronald Knight
205 Inglewood Dr., Morganton, NC 28655
828.437.4600
Reverend Knight is the pastor of an African Methodist Episcopal Church and has served other churches in North Carolina and Virginia. He was educated at NC A & T State University. Reverend Knight serves as a mentor in the Big Brother/ Big Sister program and leads a Bible study at an adult day care center. His quiet, dignified leadership makes him a valuable asset.

Mrs. Diann Thomas Tate
3795 St. Paul’s Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655
828.584.2775
Mrs. Tate served as the president of the local chapter of the N.A.A.C.P. for fourteen years. She holds a B.S. from Appalachian State University and has worked in library science for thirty-one years. Mrs. Tate is an advocate for minority issues. Diann has served on numerous boards in Morganton and Burke County. Her twinkling eyes and sharp wit enliven any endeavor.

Mrs. Lynne Martin
107 Woodland Place, Morganton, NC 28655
828.433.1225
Mrs. Martin is a local pottery artisan and art instructor. Her work has been displayed at numerous exhibits. She has worked at Florida Power Corporation and Henredon Furniture. Her artist’s perspective enriches our board and our organization.

Mr. Pat Messick
114 Parker Lane, Morganton, NC 28655
828.433.8673
Mr. Messick is a retired Captain with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. He has 24 years experience in law enforcement. His Bachelors Degree is in Criminal Justice from Garder-Webb University. Mr. Messick serves as the volunteer Food Distribution Program Manager for The Outreach Center and donates his time supervising community service and volunteer workers for the food program. His law enforcement experience greatly adds to the capabilities of our Advisory Board.