Board of Directors
Who We Are
Chaplain Tom Freborg, AIC
Executive Director
Tom is a retired firefighter and EMT who has dedicated the second half of his life to serving God and supporting fellow firefighters through chaplaincy. Tom attended Loyola University of Chicago and Walsh University. He continues to educate himself on matters of mental health as it relates to first responders. Tom is a proud father of four and grandfather of five. When he’s not serving others, he enjoys CrossFit, music, the outdoors, and cooking.
Capt. Anthony Lombardo
Exectutive Director
Anthony is a full-time fire captain and paramedic who’s passionate about helping first responders heal from PTSD and championing peer support teams. In addition to serving with two fire agencies, he also serves his community as a city councilman. Anthony is a devoted husband and father of two who treasures time with his family above all else.
Dr. Lee Kachner
Executive Director
As a pastor for over 15 years, Lee shepherds with both compassion and proficiency. His leadership at LifePointe Church and First Baptist Church reveals a heart dedicated to nurturing spiritual growth in others. Armed with extensive theological education—including a Bachelor of Science in Religion, Master of Arts in Theological Studies, Master of Divinity, and Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University—Lee brings scholarly depth to his pastoral work.
Chaplain Julia Wike
Executive Director
Julia Wike brings decades of compassionate service, clinical insight, and ministry leadership to Rise Up & Fight Ministries. With more than 25 years of experience working across mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse recovery, and pastoral care, Julia is deeply committed to walking alongside individuals and families in their most critical moments.
Julia is a Licensed Social Worker, Chaplain, and Ordained Minister. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Youngstown State University and obtained licensure through the State of Ohio Counselor and Social Work Board. She received her official ordination through the United Christian Church & Ministerial Association in January 2013.
Julia holds a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification through Ohio Chemical Dependency programs. Julia holds a Critical Incident Stress Management (C-CISM) Certification of Knowledge through the University of Maryland Department of Emergency Health Services in partnership with the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation in February 2026.
​
​
​