GUIDING EYES OUTDOORS - Key Persons
Drew Blake - Founder, President
Drew embodies the outdoor spirit, graduating from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Technology and Management, and a minor in Environmental Science. He honed his skills on family land, hunting a variety of game from a young age with his father, and exploring both freshwater and saltwater fishing. When he's not outdoors, he spends his time gardening and with his wife, Sarah, and his sons, Colt and Jamison. As President, Drew is the driving force behind GEO's strategic vision and business decisions, guiding the organization towards growth while meeting financial expectations and fundraising needs. His leadership style is collaborative, working closely with the leadership team and Board
Job Titles:
- Outreach & Event Support Specialist
Originally from Virginia, Eli now resides in North Carolina with his wife but has lived all over the U.S., including OH, IN, TX, IL, and MA. Eli loves to travel and some of his recent adventures include relaxing in St. Lucia and backpacking in Patagonia. Eli is an avid outdoorsman who loves hiking, backpacking, camping, fishing, and hunting. He is passionate about the environment and participated in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's oyster conservation program, growing oysters to be placed on conservation reefs. Eli has long supported differently abled groups and grew up working with special needs organizations serving those with Autism. GEO is an incredible combination of his passions that intertwines his love of the outdoors with his desire to support others. Eli brings not only his enthusiasm for the outdoors, but also his years of out-bound sales experience, marketing acumen, and project management knowledge to the organization. He looks forward to driving forth the mission and vision of GEO and continuing to expand all individuals' access to the outdoors.
James was born and raised on a tobacco and cattle farm in Southwest Virginia. Growing up, he learned the value of hard work and determination. In high school, James excelled as an athlete and earned a baseball scholarship to Virginia Intermont College. After playing for three years, he relocated to North Carolina and became a skilled trim carpenter, specializing in custom cabinets. Despite his busy schedule, James remained passionate about baseball and became an assistant coach in a little league team. When the housing market declined in 2008, James changed his career path and joined Southern States, expanding his knowledge in seeds, fertilizers, and feed supplements. After nine years, he returned to his carpentry roots. In 2017, James found love and happiness when he met Tracie, and they got married in 2019. Together, they have five children and a lively household with their two mini dachshunds and two cats. In 2021, James ventured into hog raising and started his own garden. In his free time, he enjoys watching college football and cheering for the Tennessee Volunteers.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Program Director
As Programs Director, Jim oversees the following aspects of GEOs organization: Veteran and First Responder Mentor Program; Blind/Visually Impaired Program & the Children's Program. Jim's responsibilities include: Initiates and sets goals for programs based on the organization's strategic objectives. Plan programs from start to finish, including identifying processes, deadlines and milestones. Develops and implements all training programs for mentors and mentees Oversees the recruitment of program participants Assists in event planning and scheduling as it relates to mentors and mentee groups Develops and oversees budgets for the mentor and training programs Oversees and supports staff at field events
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder
- Fundraising Director
Michael, a combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan and an active law enforcement officer, resides in Lawndale, NC. He is an avid hunter, pursuing species like whitetail deer, waterfowl, dove, and Eastern wild turkey. Michael often travels from western North Carolina to the swamps and marshes of the east, targeting waterfowl during their winter migration. He has successfully hunted waterfowl in both the Carolinas and Arkansas, while also pursuing whitetail deer and eastern wild turkey throughout the region. When he's not outdoors or on patrol, Michael cherishes quality time with his loved ones, especially his son Colton. In his role as Fundraising Director, Michael is responsible for developing strategies to meet fundraising goals and ensure sustainable revenue for GEO. He plans fundraising events, approaches potential new donors for support, and fosters strong relationships with current donors, particularly those who may provide major gifts or donations. Michael oversees various aspects of GEO's organization, including prospect development from foundations, corporations, and individuals, recruitment of major donors, corporate fundraising programs, direct-donor campaigns, fundraiser event opportunities, and donor recognition initiatives.