Mark Carven Olds is the visionary Founder of the Cultural Arts Rural Economics Alliance, headquartered in the picturesque township of Maury, North Carolina. Since his ordination in 1984, Mark has been a steadfast advocate for both his community nationally, addressing its challenges with compassion, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to uplift. His dynamic career as a church planter, pastor, and community leader has given him deep insights into the unspoken struggles and aspirations of those he serves.

Mark’s academic journey includes earning a Master of Nonprofit Organizations from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, where he also engaged in post-graduate studies in history. He further advanced his studies with doctoral work in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Public Policy and Health, at the Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, Ohio. Mark has completed Certificate Programs in Nonprofit Management and the Entrepreneurial Certificate Program at Case Western Reserve University and Kent State University, respectively. His scholarly pursuits are matched by his passion for practical action, as he returns to his rural roots to share his knowledge and empower others.

A prolific author, Mark has penned numerous works that reflect his life’s mission: to help individuals achieve holistic transformation—spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. His latest volume, “Poverty is a Disease that can be Cured” is a clarion call to recognize and address one of the most insidious afflictions facing humanity. Poverty is not merely a lack of material resources; it is a pervasive condition that can infiltrate every aspect of life. Like a disease, poverty can affect anyone—regardless of race, creed, or color—and its impact is devastating. It spares no one, leaving individuals in deserts of unfulfilled aspirations and communities trapped in cycles of hopelessness.