About Us
Our Story
In 2012, two friends, Mobile County Juvenile Court Judge Edmond G. Naman and Dr. Norman H. McCrummen III, identified gaps in resources for at-risk children and their families within the realms of education, communication, transportation, and mentoring. They decided to join forces to be the solution. Driven by their common faith, Dr. McCrummen and Judge Naman consulted with the Children’s Policy Council and gathered concerned citizens for the cause. With the help of the local community and through inspiration of Judge Naman and his concern for the at-risk youth of Mobile, Dr. McCrummen was able to form the NEST program. NEST pairs at-risk youth with mentors to give each child who passes through their doors hope for a better life.
The Significance of the Pelican
In early Christianity, the pelican was thought to symbolize the Passion of Jesus and represented a self-sacrificing parent caring for her young. The use of a pelican feeding her young in our logo reflects God’s love for each one of us and His direction for all of us. We desire to reflect Christ in all we do.
Our Team
Executive Director
Carole Grant
Since 2016, Carole has served as the Executive Director. In this role, she oversees the NEST mission strategy, the organizational design of the mentoring program, and community collaboration. Carole considers her work particularly rewarding when reflecting on NEST’s motto, “Love Your Neighbor,” and how it comes to fruition within the program. She enjoys running, playing golf with her husband and two daughters, and everything Disney or Harry Potter.
Mental Health Consultant
Sally Teague
With a passion for creating innovative programs that tackle complex challenges, Sally Teague served on NEST’s original Board of Directors and is now our Mental Health Consultant. While focusing on addressing mental health needs, program development, and volunteer training, she finds witnessing NEST youth gain confidence and achieve their goals deeply rewarding. Sally enjoys exercising, camping, traveling, and listening to music in her free time.
Associate Director
Abbey Rogers
Drawn to NEST's meaningful impact on our community, Abbey became Associate Director in August 2024. Her role involves recruiting volunteers, promoting NEST’s mission, attending volunteer and family meetings, and assisting with the annual luncheon. She finds it so rewarding to witness diverse groups coming together to build strong connections that support children and their families. Abbey enjoys spending time with her family at the lake and playing pickleball.
Swim Instructor & Educational Coach
Lori Sharpe
Lori Sharpe, our Swim Safety Instructor and Educational Coach, recently joined NEST’s team. Through leading the swim program, she strives to reduce youth drowning risks. Additionally, she offers in-house tutoring in all subjects and study skills for grades K-12. Lori finds her work rewarding because teaching swim lessons to those who might not have the chance can make a life-saving difference. She enjoys running and leading a couple's Bible study.
Executive Committee
Mr. Todd Martin III
Chairman
Mr. Kenny Crow, Jr.
Treasurer
Dr. Norman H. McCrummen III
Founder, Chairman Emeritus
Ms. Virginia F. Guy
Advisory
Mr. Edwin "Pete" Peters, Jr.
Chairman Emeritus
Mr. Jay Ison
Advisory
Board of Directors
Ms. Kirsten Alice
Chief Lawrence L. Battiste
Mr. Steve Beatty
Mr. Knox Boteler
Chief Michael Dekle
Mr. Joseph H. L. Dzwonkowski
Mrs. Dannette L. Menaker
Mr. David C. Menaker
Mr. Michael S. McAleer
Mr. Norwood Morris
Mrs. Paige M. Oldshue
Mr. Michael O'Neill III
Mr. William W. Oppenheimer
Mr. Norman D. Pitman III
Mr. Bradley Sanders, Jr.
Mrs. Lori Ward Sharpe
Mr. Gaillard Teague
Ex-Officio
Dr. Keith J. Peevy
Dr. James "Tres" Stefurak
Mr. Andy Wynne