Our Team

Founder/Executive Director

Mike leads the Foundation and is Creator-Author of the Avery and Masa® Book Series.

Mike’s background as an elementary educator, youth mentor, writer, and changemaker has prepared him to build a strong foundation for the organization. Mike has developed and executed our successful four-year Title 1 school literacy program resulting in an dynamic increase in 3rd grade literacy scores.

Mike holds a BA in Education from San Diego State University with a specialization in Children’s Literature. He lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife, Sterling and their son, Dylan.

Mike Deeney.jpg

Michael Deeney

Director of Impact Programs

Paris Harrell leads the advancement and development of the year-long Protectors Impact Programs.

For the last 8 years Paris has served as an educator within the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District, specializing in curriculum amplification, instructional design, project and event management, community and family engagement, and Title I/Testing coordination.

Paris has taught K-5th grade learners and was awarded the CMS Central I Teacher of the year in 2021. She lives in Charlotte, NC with her Husband, Avery and their son, Liam.

Paris Harrell

  • Kathleen Alcorn

    Board Member

    Advisory Board Chair

  • Catherine McKenzie

    Advisory Board Member

    Social Impact & Media

  • Principal Shanna Rae

    Advisory Board Member

    Literacy & Title 1 School Engagement

  • Matthew Leiner

    Advisory Board Member

    Director of Fundraising Concerts & Events

  • Baird Private Wealth Management

    Community Outreach Partner

    Book Clubs & Annual Fundraiser Concerts

  • Taylor Patno

    Advisory Board Member

    Children’s Theatre Program

  • Red Panda Network

    Global Partner

    Red Panda & Conservation Advisor

  • Little Fireface Project

    Global Partner

    Slow Loris & Conservation Advisor

  • Carolina Farm Trust

    Regional Partner

    Community Impact Programs

  • John Vieregg

    Advisory Board

    Business Leader Engagement

  • Cocotiv

    Community Partner

    Fundraiser Concerts

  • Helen and Jose Colton Foundation

    Community Impact Programs

    Literacy Impact Programs

Our Values

The Avery and Masa Chapter Book Series features 3 continuing adventures told through the eyes of endangered animals. Each story covers important themes such as teamwork, friendship, acceptance, bullying, safety, and self-esteem. Java Lava, Dingo Danger, and Shark Bullies.

  • High Interest Reading Engagement

  • Social Emotional Learning

  • Conservation Education