Leadership

Daniel Melson

FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

Daniel Melson resides in Louisville, KY with his beautiful wife Krystal. He is a missionary at heart with over 20 years of experience working with at-risk youth in various contexts. He holds a Masters Degree in Social Work and is currently finishing his second Masters in Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. Daniel is also a soon-to-be graduate from the DeVos Urban Leadership Initiative (DVULI).

Daniel, born in the heart of the inner city of Louisville, grew up surrounded by the struggles and challenges that come with such an environment. As the son of a notorious gangster, he witnessed firsthand the impact of a life entangled in crime and violence. However, through his own journey of personal experiences and eventual faith in Christ, Daniel gained a unique perspective on the complexity within the inner city and the transformative power of the Gospel. His story serves as a testament to the potential for change and redemption, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Daniel founded The Allelon Initiative based on the challenges he faced growing up in the inner city, which included exposure to drugs, gang influences, and limited access to resources. With the guidance of mentors who introduced him to his faith, Daniel overcame these obstacles. Today, through The Allelon Initiative, he aims to pay it forward by offering similar support to youth facing similar difficulties.

Krystal Melson

CO-FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

Krystal Melson, affectionately known as "Kriss Liss," is a dedicated leader and wife of founder Daniel Melson. With a strong foundation in the music industry, Krystal is celebrated for her exceptional talent and contributions as a professional audio engineer, boasting 17 years of experience in recording and producing. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Business from the University of Indiana, which has equipped her with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive field.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Krystal serves as an Account Executive for Waystar, where she leverages her expertise to build meaningful client relationships and drive strategic solutions. Her passion for the West End of Louisville runs deep, as it is her birthplace and hometown. Krystal is a staunch advocate for the belief that a person’s value is not defined by their zip code, and she is committed to uplifting her community through her work with the Allelon Initiative.

As President of the Allelon Initiative, Krystal combines her gifts and talents to support the organization’s mission of providing holistic counseling and discipleship for youth and families. Her dedication to empowering individuals and fostering community resilience is evident in her leadership and advocacy efforts. With a heart for service and a commitment to making a difference, Krystal Melson continues to inspire those around her.

Michael Barger

SECRETARY

Michael is a follower of Christ, husband to Heather and father of seven. The Bargers love the Westside of Louisvile and decided to make Portland their home since 2008- where they embraced the call to incarnational, inner-city missions, as they assisted with a church replant and remain active members.

Michael holds a Bachelor of Science in Biblical Counseling from Boyce College and a Master of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Barger is a deep reader of science fiction, fantasy and theology, having great admiration for the works of Herbert, Tolkien and the Puritans.

Currently, Michael serves at New Breed Church, is in operations management at UPS and in project management with Redemption Solar & Roofing. 

Michael excels at hospitality and networking, connecting others to the community's beauty and God's transformative work. He is passionate about evangelism, discipleship and counseling, all the while focused on empowering men for leadership, fatherhood, and faithful service in their neighborhoods and churches.

Therron (There- Ron) Cunningham is the father of 3, husband of 1, and grandfather of the most adorable grandson in the universe. I am married to the love of my life Kendra Renee Forrest Cunningham. She is my rib and the perfect support to, my calling and purpose.

In the summer of 2022, I transitioned from lead pastor to Connecting Christian Church after eight years of providing leadership. The C3 church family will forever be a part of my and my family’s lives. We cherish the years the Lord allowed us to study, share, and serve.

Currently, Therron serves as the West Louisville Area Director for Young Life, a national organization that builds bridges of authentic friendships with students and introduces them to Jesus Christ. He is the host of the podcast Hope Dealer, where he engages local grassroots leaders who pursue their passions that lead to a positive impact in the Louisville community. In addition, Therron and his wife operate Gimme Some Suga Signature Cotton Candy, a mobile small business that offers more than taste but a flavor experience.

A sought-after mentor, one of Therron’s missions is to advocate for young African-American males to help them see their value, pursue an education, and live long, fulfilling, and productive lives. Therron and his family are under the watch care of pastor Jamel Armstrong and the New Horizon Baptist Church. He earned his BA in expository preaching and pastoral leadership from Boyce College earning a Bachelor of Arts in Expository Preaching and Church Leadership with a minor in youth ministry.

“Through my preaching, leadership, and living I hope to push you to pursue your purpose, passion and platform that God has uniquely allowed you to be birthed into the world to fulfill. “

– Therron, the hope dealer

Therron Cunningham

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Chris Harper

CHAIRMAN

Dr. Chris Harper [aka Harp] is an Amillennial, Calvinistic, complementarian, disciple of JC Ryle, who loves his wife, his four children, books, basketball, and thinks Shawn Carter is a genius. King Jesus is his Savior, Andrew is his hero, and  he believes Jordan is better than Lebron.

Harp holds multiple advanced degrees and has studied at the University of Louisville, Dallas Theological Seminary, and the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Currently, Harp serves as Chief Storyteller & CEO of BetterMan, a leading men's organization that has equipped 3,000+ churches and encourages countless men around the globe.