Our Team
Sam Vines
Chief Executive OfficerSam leads Elemental from the front with people-first leadership. As the beating ‘heart’ of the organization, Sam sets the pace and spirit of our team's work. Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, he studied Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where he also played football throughout his college years. In his three years with the team, Sam has risen through the ranks by pairing strong leadership skills with a deep belief in the power of conversation. He thrives on the daily challenge of engaging strangers in meaningful dialogue and connecting them to real-world issues through tangible action. Sam brings the steady presence and unwavering commitment to excellence that guides Elemental's direction and mission.
Elishia Peña
President and Chief Financial OfficerElishia Peña oversees the systems, operational structures, and training logistics that keep Elemental Fundraising moving forward. She is the ‘brain’ of the team, maintaining interdepartmental consistency by managing frameworks for tracking and accountability. Originally from Sweetwater, Tennessee, Elishia holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and human services. Elishia has been a critical part of Elemental’s journey; her passion for the work is deeply personal. As a mother (Starlie, age 2), she is driven by the belief that by helping shape a better world today, she is helping build a stronger future.
Mike Carlucci
Chief Operating OfficerMike ‘gets things done’ Carlucci is a consistent force of excellence who ensures the company’s employee processes are efficient and effective. Mike is originally from Baldwinsville, New York, and upon graduating from New York State University with a degree in human development, joined the Peace Corps, serving in Zambia. Once he returned to the States he became a high school teacher in North Carolina until meeting the Elemental team in 2023. After serving in a variety of positions with the organization from fundraiser to team lead to director, he joined the operations team in 2024. A talented fundraiser and people driven leader, Mike is a key member of the Elemental team.
Catherine Turnage
Director of OperationsCatherine is one of the oldest and fiercest members of the team. Overseeing operations, she is constantly adapting and streamlining systems and processes to drive the team to “operational excellence.” Raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Catherine attended North Carolina State University, where she met the Elemental Fundraising team as a junior. Working part time to support herself in school, she finished her bachelor's degree in social work and then returned to her Elemental family. Catherine is an incredibly talented and passionate leader who doesn’t accept mediocrity, and she is a pillar within the Elemental team.
Abraham Frazier
National TrainerMeet Abraham, our National Trainer. He has been with Elemental since May 2025. With a background in Business and Marketing from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, Abraham brings both strategic insight and real-world experience to our team. Raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, he spent five years training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, competing in multiple tournaments across the state and developing the discipline and resilience he now channels into his coaching. Beyond the gym, Abraham is passionate about giving back to the community, creating and enjoying music, and yes—mastering his skills in Mortal Kombat. We’re proud to have his leadership, energy, and competitive spirit as part of the Elemental family.
Elijah Flores
National TrainerBorn and raised in Brownsville, Texas, Elijah brings heart, purpose, and passion to everything they do. Deeply committed to human rights, they are driven by one mission: to help others live better, fuller lives. Every day, they work toward building a better world — especially for their nieces and nephews — and for the generations to come. With both a B.A. and M.A. in Philosophy, specializing in Mexican-American Studies, Elijah is passionate about education, lifelong learning, and creating meaningful human connections. Their dedication to growth — both personal and collective — is what makes them such an impactful leader.