MEET OUR LEADERS

Dr. David H Fitzgerald

Pastor David H. Fitzgerald, Jr. is a devoted pastor, leader, and servant of God whose life has been shaped by faith, leadership, perseverance, and a passion for people.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Pastor Fitzgerald graduated from West Catholic High School, where he later returned as a football coach. In 2011, he was part of the coaching staff that led West Catholic to its first-ever PIAA State Football Championship. His experiences in leadership and mentorship helped prepare him for his greater calling to ministry.

In November 2012, Pastor Fitzgerald launched Compelling People to Christ Worship Center with only four people. The ministry grew into Hope City Christian Church (HC3), eventually serving several hundred congregants with campuses in multiple cities. In 2021, Pastor Fitzgerald consolidated the ministry and relaunched the vision as Next Church RVA, with a renewed focus on reaching people, developing disciples, strengthening families, and helping individuals discover their God-given purpose. In 2022, Pastor Fitzgerald and his wife, Cara Mellanson, founded The North Star Foundation, further reflecting their commitment to serving and impacting their community.

At the heart of Pastor Fitzgerald's ministry is a simple mission: Obey God, love people, and make a difference. Through Next Church RVA, he continues to lead with the belief that there is always a greater purpose and a greater NEXT ahead.

First Lady Cara Fitzgerald MPA,B.S

First Lady Cara D. Mellanson is a devoted wife, leader, servant, and advocate whose life has been centered on serving others and creating meaningful change in her community.

A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Cara graduated from Deep Creek High School, where she served as Class President and was active in JROTC. She later earned her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Norfolk State University and began a career with the Virginia Department of Corrections in 2004.

During nearly 18 years with the Department of Corrections, Cara served in various roles, including Corrections Officer, Case Manager Counselor, and Probation and Parole Officer. Her work in reentry and mental health strengthened her passion for helping individuals overcome barriers and rebuild their lives, particularly those experiencing homelessness and displacement. In 2020, Cara transitioned into the mental health field, where she continued her commitment to serving vulnerable communities. She later founded Mellanson Enterprises, a mental health organization focused on connecting individuals with services and resources that support stability and well-being. In 2022, Cara and her husband, Pastor David H. Fitzgerald, Jr., founded The North Star Foundation, with a shared mission to address homelessness and reduce criminal recidivism throughout Virginia.

Cara's life and leadership are rooted in a commitment to serve people, restore lives, and create pathways to a better future. Alongside her husband, she continues to serve through Next Church RVA, believing that faith should extend beyond the church walls and make a lasting impact in the lives of others.