Camp Centurion's mission is to provide local veterans, experiencing difficult transition from military to civilian life, with the essential secure environment, services and support they need to be able to finally "come home", regardless of the length of time since their discharge.

Join Our Community

Copyright 2023 Camp Centurion
828-726-3281
Donate Now download
MENU
About Camp Centurion

Camp Centurion, Inc is a North Carolina Tax Exempt, 501(c)(3) Charitable Corporation.

Case

Many veterans are able to make a successful transition back into the civilian world after they are discharged from military service. For these veterans, the training and experience they received, in the service, helps them excel professionally and thrive personally when they return to civilian life. However, for others, the road home can be long, difficult, and filled with problems and pitfalls. Some veterans suffer from physical disabilities or the emotional scars of war resulting in financial crises, legal problems and homelessness, which make "coming home" almost impossible.

Vision

Camp Centurion has been created to provide these local veterans with a program for becoming reintegrated into the community. The key elements of this program include: Supportive housing in a secure environment that is structured and supervised. The community nature of supportive housing will provide fellowship and the forging of bonds as the veterans help each other to achieve goals. Assistance with access to services and benefits will enable veterans to address and overcome the issues that have negatively impacted their ability to function in the civilian world. Personalized plans for individual veterans (including employment, financial, legal and emotional counseling) to enable them to achieve the goal of becoming stable and productive members of the community.

Board of Directors and Staff

Kenneth Heavner
President
Ken entered the North Carolina Army National Guard as a Traditional Guardsman at the age of 17 as a Junior at West Lincoln High School in May of 2000. He served in the Active Guard Reserves of the North Carolina Army National Guard for the past 21 years as an Enlisted Soldier and an Armor Officer, Infantry Officer, Adjutant General Officer, and Field Artillery Officer until his recent retirement in 2023. Ken has a Bachelor's Degree in Human Development from Amridge University, a Master's Degree in Leadership and Management, and a Dual Master's Degree in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from Amridge University. Ken served as the Director of Camp Centurion July of 2023 to June of 2024. Ken currently serves Gaston County as the Veterans Treatment Court Manager.
Tommy Hughes
Vice President
Tommy Hughes began his military career in Charlotte, North Carolina, serving in the 1-113 Field Artillery before transitioning to Cyber Command in 2013. Over 19 years, he has been deployed to the Middle East three times, demonstrating adaptability in field artillery and cyber roles. Outside the military, Tommy is the Director of Recruiting and Marketing at Waffle House Inc. in Charlotte, where he leads brand and college engagement, manages recruitment, and offers career counseling. He plans to use his experiences to support fellow veterans through the Centurion Veterans Organization, aiding their transition to civilian careers.
Adam Sides
Treasurer
Adam Sides began his career in the North Carolina Army National Guard in 1999 as a Field Artilleryman. In 2006, he transitioned to an Information Technology Specialist, establishing two new units providing Wide Area Networks and communications support. By 2012, Adam joined the Engineer Corps, excelling in leadership roles such as First Sergeant and Senior Operations NCO. His career highlights include orchestrating successful disaster responses for Hurricanes Matthew and Florence, and leading key operations during OPERATION SPARTAN SHIELD. Adam holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Columbia Southern University and an Associate's Degree in Applied Science Networking Technology from Catawba Valley Community College. Currently, Adam is the Interim Director of Operations at HKY4VETS, where he supports transitioning military personnel and their families in the Hickory Metro region. His dedication to service and extensive experience drive his commitment to positively impacting his community.
Cory Hinkle
Secretary
Cory's distinguished 21-year military career began in 2002 as an engineer and a human resources specialist. He deployed to Iraq in 2005 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, focusing on route clearance and crater repair, and again in 2011, working in Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Qatar with a brigade personnel office. Retiring in June 2023, Cory owns King's Legacy Transport, a nationwide company specializing in time-sensitive and specialized loads. He lives in Cliffside, NC, with his wife, Rachel, and their two daughters, Stella and Lyla.
Daniel Little
Director
US Army Veteran, enlisted as 13B Cannon Crew member. I carry a state certification as a peer support specialist with a military designation. I've enjoyed being of service to my community as a volunteer firefighter. I am an active advocate for veterans, mental health, and child welfare. I have a beautiful and supportive family. Our faith is a strong guide for all that we pursue. My goal is to use my dedication and passion for others to elevate veterans, providing strong support to finally come home.
Ivan "Bud" Strope
Chaplain
Bud joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1965 and served in Vietnam, as a rifle squad leader, in 1966 and 1967. Bud returned to Parris Island where he served as a rifle coach and as NCO in charge of the BOQ. He was honorably discharged in 1969 with the rank of Sergeant. Bud worked in the field of combustion engineering and traveled extensively engaged in international sales. He retired, from an engineering consulting firm, in 2013 and became active as a veterans' advocate. Bud is currently Pastor of Veterans Ministry at Journey Fellowship. Bud is a life member of the VFW, American Legion, Marine Corps League, Disabled American Veterans and Mensa.
Andrew Sopala
Board Member
Andrew joined the North Carolina Army National Guard in 1995 as a 13B Cannon Crewmember. Andrew deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004 and 2009 and deployed in 2019 in support of Operation Spartan Shield. Andrew joined the Active Guard Reserve program in 2006 as a Human Resources NCO and retired in June 2023. with over 28 years of service. Andrew currently serves as an Executive Assistant with Purple Heart Homes based out of Statesville where he assists veterans nationwide.
Michael Meeks Sr.
Board Member
Mike entered the U.S. Army in 1969 and served at Ft. Knox, KY and Bamberg, Germany before being honorably discharged in 1971. Mike is very active in local civic affairs and is Chairman of the Gaston Veterans Council, President of Bessemer City Crisis Center, Board Member of Bessemer City Boys & Girls Club, past President and board member of the BC Chamber of Commerce, Vice President of BC Weekend Backpack Program, past member of BC Economic Development, member of the Bessemer City ABC Board, BC Hope 4 Gaston volunteer, BC Delivery Meal on Wheels, member of Gaston County Honor Guard, member of the CaroMont Hospital Advisory Committee, the CaroMont Transition Committee, CaroMont Veterans Committee and CaroMont Faith and Health Ministry. Mike has received the Humanitarian Award from Purple Heart Homes, the BC 2013 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and the 2015 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Legacy Award.
Evan Leonard
Board Member
Dr. Evan Leonard, a clinical anatomist with a doctorate in medical science from Lincoln Memorial University, has academic degrees in biology, anatomy, and medical science from the University of Miami, Barry University, and Nova Southeastern University, respectively. A former Marine Corps reservist, Dr. Leonard has practiced internal and emergency medicine at the University of Florida and published peer-reviewed research. He continues to teach as a professor at various universities.
Greg Dimmer
Board Member
Greg Dimmer, a dedicated general contractor and community advocate, founded Dimmer & Sons Construction, Inc. in 1995. After serving in the Marine Corps from 1989 to 1994, he channeled his discipline and leadership into building a reputable construction firm. Greg is married to Shelli Dimmer and extends his commitment to community service through significant contributions. He has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity in Gaston County, building homes and serving on its board. Additionally, Greg has held positions on the Belmont YMCA board and the Gaston County Home Builders Board, underscoring his dedication to community development and support.
Laura Hamilton
Board Member
Laura spent 7 years in the Marine Corps in the late 80s and early 90s in the aviation side of the Corps. She then worked for Gaston County for 30 years. She likes to hang out with other veterans and wants to help them as she is able to. She is part of the Marine Corps League, Gaston County Honor Guard, and now with Camp Centurion.
Aaron Belk
Board Member
Aaron enlisted into the North Carolina Army National Guard in 2005. Throughout his career, he has held multiple Field Artillery MOS's and is currently serving as a Battalion Senior Supply NCO for 1st Battalion, 113th Field Artillery. He deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2009 and to Kuwait in 2019 in support of Operation Spartan Shield. Aaron also spent a lot of time in his early years as a volunteer for groups such as the Knights of Columbus and coaching with the Special Olympics. His love for volunteer work and his dedication to fellow veterans will continue to fuel his support of Camp Centurion. He lives in Charlotte, NC and has a 12 year old daughter named Bella.
Ricky Dukes Jr.
Board Member
Ricky Dukes Jr. is a family-oriented individual based in Charlotte, NC. He and his wife, Melissa, are dedicated parents to their six children, creating a lively and loving home that reflects their shared values of integrity, growth, and faith. Outside of his professional pursuits, Ricky enjoys activities that bring his family together, whether it's through sports, outdoor adventures, or quiet time that strengthens their bond. Professionally, Ricky has nearly 15 years of experience in financial services and insurance, currently serving as the owner of The Legacy Financial Group. He's known for his educational approach, helping clients from various backgrounds to understand core financial concepts like budgeting and saving. His passion for empowering clients through financial literacy is a key part of his mission, but it always comes second to the devotion he has for his family.
Michael Howard
Board Member
Entered NC Army National Guard January 1988 in the aviation branch and after a break in service, reentered the NC Army Guard 1997, trained as a 13F (artillery forward observer), then serving the remainder as an Army medic with HHB 1/113th FA, deployed with the 30th Brigade to OIF 2 from 2003 to 2005 at Camp Caldwell and Forward Operating Base Bernstein as a line medic with Troop E 196 Cav and awarded the Combat Action Badge. Later progressing in ranks and assignments from section leader, medical instructor to 1SG with the 1/113th FA, 163 Area Support Medical Company twice E-5 and as last 1SG in 2016, 113 Sustainment Brigade, 139th Regional Training Institute, Joint Force HQ, and deployed with the 449th Combat Aviation Brigade to Kuwait 2017-18 as brigade medical NCO. Finishing Army career in the Army Reserve Individual Augmentee Program from 2019-2025 serving on active duty from 2020-2024 as the senior medical noncommissioned officer at 5th BN (psyop school), 1st Special Warfare Training Group at Fort Bragg/Liberty. Became jump qualified at age 50 in 2021 and has 20 jumps as of December 2023. Served 30 years as a civilian paramedic with a bachelor's in emergency medical care with a concentration in wilderness medicine.Highest rank held: 1SG, retiring as MSG in April 2025.