While we have an “About Us” as part of the website we thought it would nice to introduce ourselves a little further and tell you a little about how we ended up here.
Our President, Jason Kelly, visits inmates in the county jail each week, bringing the hope and healing message of the Gospel to men struggling with addiction. Through his faithful presence and witness, he reminds those who are incarcerated that they are not forgotten and that God’s mercy remains available to them.
Our Treasurer, Joe Lester, provides weekly Catholic Communion services for inmates in the county jail, offering spiritual nourishment and encouragement to those seeking a deeper relationship with Christ. In addition to his jail ministry, Joe mentors two inmates through regular online meetings, helping them grow in faith and prepare for a healthier future. Many of the men he serves find themselves incarcerated as a result of the destructive grip of addiction, making this ministry a vital source of hope and support.
Board member Margaro Lira brings a powerful testimony of redemption and transformation. A former gang member, addict, and prisoner, Margaro has maintained sobriety for more than ten years and now owns a successful construction company. Committed to helping others rebuild their lives, he actively seeks opportunities to employ men who are making a sincere effort to overcome addiction and pursue sobriety. Margaro also conducts one-on-one visits with inmates in the county jail, sharing his story and demonstrating that lasting recovery and a new life are possible through perseverance, faith, and grace.
Our Spiritual Director, Father Chris Fraser, first met Nathan Potter after Nathan had achieved sobriety following many years of alcohol abuse. Like many in recovery, Nathan believed that once he became sober, many of life’s struggles would simply disappear. He often jokes that after five years of sobriety, he still had many of the same challenges. He was simply facing them sober. This realization led Nathan on a deeper search for meaning, purpose, and lasting fulfillment. As he explored these questions, he was drawn to the Catholic faith and began a journey of spiritual transformation. Along the way, Father Chris became a trusted guide and mentor. In 2025, Father Chris had the privilege of confirming Nathan into the Catholic Church, administering his First Holy Communion, and officiating his marriage to his wife, Diane. All during what was affectionately dubbed “The Sacramental Grand Slam”. Throughout his conversion journey, Nathan often shared with Father Chris his desire to serve those struggling with addiction through a Catholic ministry. Having experienced both the challenges of recovery and the healing power of faith, he felt called to help others find the same hope he had discovered. When Father Chris introduced him to Kolbe Mission, Nathan immediately recognized an opportunity to live out that calling. He joined the organization as a volunteer and now serves as Director of Development, helping advance the mission of bringing faith, recovery, and hope to those seeking a new way of life.
Unlike many of the stories shared here, Kevin Starrs did not provide a personal account of his own journey with Kolbe Mission. In many ways, that omission speaks volumes about his character. Kevin has always been more concerned with advancing the mission than drawing attention to himself. A quality that has defined his decades of service to others. For more than 40 years, Kevin has dedicated his life to serving at-risk youth and adults through a variety of leadership and outreach roles. His work has included service with the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix Prison Ministry, the City of Chandler, and the East Valley Boys & Girls Club. Across each of these organizations, his focus has remained remarkably consistent: reaching those in need, building meaningful relationships, and providing the support necessary for lasting transformation. Kevin’s commitment to service is rooted in a deep and abiding Catholic faith. He credits his own healing and recovery to a relationship with Jesus Christ, the life of the Church, and the grace received through the sacraments. Those experiences continue to shape his ministry today, inspiring him to accompany others on their own journeys toward hope, healing, and restoration. Kolbe Mission is blessed to benefit from Kevin’s wisdom, compassion, and decades of experience. His life serves as a powerful reminder that some of the most impactful servants of God’s kingdom are those who quietly and faithfully place the needs of others before their own.