Welcome to Fostering Solutions, the podcast where we celebrate nonprofit leaders who

are building stronger communities through vision, resilience, and purpose. I’m your

host, Dr. Michelle Foster.

In this episode—part of our “Holding the Mission Together: Leadership in the Face of

Uncertainty” series—we’re joined by Rev. Michael Lewis Farmer, a dynamic and

dedicated leader whose work through Step by Step West Virginia has transformed

lives across our state.

Rev. Farmer serves as CEO and Executive Director of Programs for Step by Step

WV, a nonprofit that supports children, teens, and families in Lincoln, Logan, and

Kanawha Counties through 18 afterschool programs, three Family Support Centers, and

a range of workforce, college, and career readiness initiatives. Under his leadership,

Step by Step has become a trusted community anchor—helping families navigate

challenges, access resources, and build pathways to brighter futures.

He also serves as Pastor and Director of Risen City Church and the Risen City

Neighbor Center on Charleston’s West Side—an extension of his commitment to faith-

based community development. Beyond his day-to-day work, Rev. Farmer lends his

expertise to several boards including Charleston Works, Hope for Appalachia Addiction

Recovery and Children’s Resource Centers, Mountaineer Food Bank, Prestera, and KRT.

In today’s conversation, we’ll talk about what it takes to hold the mission together when

funding is uncertain and needs are great. Rev. Farmer will share how his team stayed

grounded in their values, how they innovated to meet community needs, and how hope

and partnership continue to fuel their work.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, and the power of

stepping up—step by step.