David & LaVonne Szafranski

David and LaVonne Szafranski have faithfully served in missions in Brazil since 2013. David has led over 20 mission trips and has been instrumental in welcoming supporters, donors, and trip participants into the work of Nativos. LaVonne, a retired teacher of 30 years, brings a steady heart for service and encouragement and serves as Secretary of Nativos. David is the founder and president of Edgewater Investment Group and serves as President and Chairman of Nativos, helping lead the ministry with vision, dedication, and a deep commitment to its growth and impact.

Melissa & Sagares Martins

Sagares and Melissa Martins have served as full-time missionaries and pastors for over 20 years. They were part of the first well drilling effort in 2006 and helped pioneer the endeavor that purchased the first drill rig. Fluent in Portuguese, they spent 18 years serving in Brazil before moving to Ohio, where Sagares now serves as Senior Pastor of Harvest Christian Church. As founding board members of Nativos USA, Melissa serves as Treasurer and Board Director, helping oversee donations, missionary support, and the administration of short-term mission trips. Together, they continue to lead teams, translate, encourage missionaries, and strengthen the growing work God is doing through Nativos. They are the parents of five children and remain deeply committed to the ministry’s vision and impact.

Gary & Lori Christofferson

Gary and Lori Christofferson are cherished members of the Nativos USA board, bringing wisdom, experience, and many years of connection to Brazil through both missions and family. In their retirement years, they continue to serve faithfully in a variety of ways and rarely want to miss a mission trip. Lori especially enjoys ministering to women and children, while Gary is known for teaching, encouraging, and investing in others. Their steady commitment and servant hearts are a true blessing to the work of Nativos.

Leon Martynyuk 

Leo Martinyuk is a wonderful addition to the Nativos USA board. He fell in love with the mission in 2022 and has since played an important role in bringing his church family into the work and vision of Nativos. He is a deacon at Slavic Full Gospel Church, a devoted husband and father of five, and a faithful supporter of the ministry. Leo’s heart for people, service, and the Gospel continues to strengthen the mission in meaningful ways.