Roanoke Ranch for Kids
Our Board
It takes a team of leaders
Our Clients
Our Board
It takes a team of leaders
Founder & Executive Director
Aaron Decker
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Board President
Mike Vander Ploeg
Mike Vander Ploeg is a seasoned executive and business development strategist with over 30
years of experience leading growth across industries such as consumer goods, manufacturing,
retail, and consulting. Known for launching startups and revitalizing brands, Mike brings a
results-driven, relationship-focused approach to every venture. Beyond his corporate
achievements, he’s a passionate community builder and creative force behind beloved events like
the Ada Chili & Beer Festival—the largest of its kind in the U.S.—and Bands, Brews & BBQ at BridgeFest in Lowell Township, MI.
Mike’s connection to Roanoke Ranch for Kids began through a deeply personal journey. After his wife, Danette, discovered the healing potential of equine therapy for their adopted son, Alex—who was born with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder—the family experienced firsthand the transformative impact of the Ranch. Inspired by Alex’s bond with Aaron and a horse named
Dewey, Mike stepped into leadership, serving as Board President since 2015. He now combines strategic oversight with hands-on involvement, partnering with local agencies to develop new programs and leading summer groups that empower at-risk youth through connection, care, and purpose. "Roanoke Ranch has been a true blessing for our family—a place of healing, hope, and connection. It transformed our lives, and I’m passionate about helping others experience that
same opportunity."
Treasurer
Susan Hascall
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Secretary
Casey Kuhn
Casey Kuhn is a Manager of Data & Analytics at the University of Michigan Health Regional Network, where he helps teams turn complex information into clear, actionable insights that support better decisions and outcomes. He has served on the Board of Roanoke Ranch for Kids for the past two years, bringing a steady, service-oriented approach to strategy, operations, and long-term sustainability.
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Casey’s connection to Roanoke Ranch began at the Black Tie & Blue Jeans dinner in 2020, where he witnessed the healing and restoration that takes place when children are met with consistent care, the steady presence of animals, and the beauty of the natural world. He is passionate about the Ranch’s mission to serve God’s most vulnerable and is grateful to support work that restores hope through relationship, purpose, and creation. Outside of work and the Ranch, Casey enjoys hiking, dogs, horses, kids, and time with God.
Board
Glenn Dunn
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Board
Roger Shammas
Dr. Roger Shammas is a cardiologist at Trinity Health, where he serves as a staff physician delivering compassionate, evidence-based cardiovascular care. His medical training includes undergraduate and master’s studies at Michigan State University, medical school at Wayne State University, and residency/fellowship training at the University of Minnesota.
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Dr. Shammas is deeply committed to community service and invests his time in organizations that support youth, families, and neighbors in need. He served on the Board of Directors for the Thornapple Baseball League, as a Scoutmaster with Troop 290 Boy Scouts, and supports local initiatives including God’s Kitchen and Lowell BridgeFest. Outside of medicine and volunteering, Dr. Shammas enjoys hiking, exercising, movies, boating, traveling, and spending time with his family.
Ben Mol
Casey Kuhn is a Manager of Data & Analytics at the University of Michigan Health Regional Network, where he helps teams turn complex information into clear, actionable insights that support better decisions and outcomes. He has served on the Board of Roanoke Ranch for Kids for the past two years, bringing a steady, service-oriented approach to strategy, operations, and long-term sustainability.
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Casey’s connection to Roanoke Ranch began at the Black Tie & Blue Jeans dinner in 2020, where he witnessed the healing and restoration that takes place when children are met with consistent care, the steady presence of animals, and the beauty of the natural world. He is passionate about the Ranch’s mission to serve God’s most vulnerable and is grateful to support work that restores hope through relationship, purpose, and creation. Outside of work and the Ranch, Casey enjoys hiking, dogs, horses, kids, and time with God.
Derek Russ
Derek began his career as an LMSW, supporting individuals through hard seasons of life and teens from difficult and vulnerable life circumstances. He later served as a Sales Development Director, coaching early-career professionals in personal and professional growth. Today, Derek is Director of Operations at RightOak Asset Management, where he focuses on strengthening the systems and client experience that support the firm’s advisory team.
He joined the Board of Roanoke Ranch for Kids in January 2026. The Ranch’s Christ-centered mission to invest in the lives of young people closely aligns with the values that guide Derek’s life and service.
Outside of work, Derek enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and their three children.
Roger Shammas
Dr. Roger Shammas is a cardiologist at Trinity Health, where he serves as a staff physician delivering compassionate, evidence-based cardiovascular care. His medical training includes undergraduate and master’s studies at Michigan State University, medical school at Wayne State University, and residency/fellowship training at the University of Minnesota.
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Dr. Shammas is deeply committed to community service and invests his time in organizations that support youth, families, and neighbors in need. He served on the Board of Directors for the Thornapple Baseball League, as a Scoutmaster with Troop 290 Boy Scouts, and supports local initiatives including God’s Kitchen and Lowell BridgeFest. Outside of medicine and volunteering, Dr. Shammas enjoys hiking, exercising, movies, boating, traveling, and spending time with his family.