My Bio

Barbara Lewis, Officer, Refuge Community Development Inc. (RCDC), Born in Colón, Panama, Barbara Lewis is a dynamic leader with a passion for community empowerment and outreach. A graduate of Purdue University School of Engineering, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. After completing her degree, Barbara relocated to Louisville, Kentucky, where she became an active member of Refuge In Kentucky Church, pastored by Apostle Raymond J. Keith, Jr.

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Barbara’s professional career spans over 30 years at United Parcel Service (UPS) in engineering, where she contributed to operational excellence until 2015, when health challenges led her to transition from her corporate role. She remains deeply engaged in health advocacy as a member of the Norton Neuroscience Institute for Multiple Sclerosis and the Kentucky Society for African Americans Against Cancer.

Her commitment to service has been instrumental in initiating community outreach programs at her local church, designed to support families from diverse cultures and demographics. These grassroots efforts laid the foundation for establishing Refuge Community Development Corporation (RCDC) as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Today, Barbara serves as Executive Director of RCDC, a Trustee Board Member, and Executive Assistant to Apostle Keith, continuing her mission to foster growth, inclusion, and opportunity within the community.