Servant Leaders
Mary Ellen Chaco - President
Mary Ellen Chaco is the President of Eli’s Heart Foundation, a ministry providing compassionate financial and practical support to families facing life’s challenges. A mother, hospice nurse, and private caregiver, she brings empathy, advocacy, and faith-driven leadership to her work.
Mary Ellen has also volunteered extensively at Eli’s small Christian school, supporting children, families, and staff. Outside of the foundation, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring nature, and writing to inspire others, with a lifelong goal of helping families find hope, strength, and peace during difficult times.
Mike Chaco - Vice President
Michael Chaco serves as Vice President of Eli’s Heart Foundation, leading with integrity, faith, and a servant’s heart. With a background in industrial construction leadership, he brings accountability, transparency, and wise stewardship to the foundation’s work.
Rooted deeply in his faith in Christ, Michael’s commitment is shaped by his son Eli’s legacy—a life that reflected genuine Christian character and a love for others. Having personally walked through profound loss and uncertainty, Michael is devoted to transforming hardship into hope by serving families in their most difficult seasons.
Through Eli’s Heart Foundation, he is committed to ensuring every gift is used with purpose, compassion, and faithfulness—bringing tangible support while pointing hearts to the hope found in Christ.
Jamie Dickerson - Treasurer
Jamie Dickerson is a senior construction and operations leader with extensive experience in team leadership, budgeting, and organizational growth. Guided by his faith and commitment to service, he believes leadership is rooted in stewardship, integrity, and compassion. Jamie is honored to serve on the Board of Eli’s Heart Foundation Inc., supporting its mission to help individuals and families in need through responsible, faith-driven service.
Dwayne Hewett - Secretary
Dwayne Hewett has been married to his lovely wife for 39 years and is the proud father of three children and grandfather to twelve grandchildren. He came to know Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of 12 and surrendered to God’s call to preach the gospel at 16. Dwayne served in the U.S. Navy Reserves and later devoted approximately 15 years to youth ministry. He went on to serve as Senior Pastor at Ridge Road Baptist Church for 23 years. He currently serves as an elder at New Vision Baptist Church. Dwayne is honored to serve on this foundation and is passionate about keeping Eli’s memory alive while helping others.