JIM BALZANO
Lead Pastor
Pastor Jim graduated from Youth Challenge International Bible Institute in 1990 at which time he continued on staff as the Development Director and as a member of the faculty. In 1992, he also received his BS in Social services from Springfield College. Jim and his wife, Pennie, pioneered "The Nehemiah Project," a Christian drug and alcohol outreach in 1991 that now serves as a community redevelopment organization serving the Altoona area. Their son, Dominic, passed away in 2013. Their daughter Toni who is married to Eric Mercer. They have a granddaughter, Carsyn and a grandson, Liam.
TROY FERGUSON
Senior Associate, Worship
Troy administrates and oversees a variety of departments at Trans4mation Church including: Worship, Media Ministry and LIFEGROUPS (small groups ministry of TC.) Troy also chairs the Deacon Board and is the producer of Joy In The City Television show. Troy attended UFV and joined the staff of TC in January of 2003. Troy and his wife, Kelly, have two boys, Jaxson and Parker.
MELANIE OSBORN
Children’s Connections Pastor
Melanie Bard serves on staff at Trans4mation Church as the Children’s Connections Director. Melanie grew up in Lancaster county. She graduated from Philadelphia Masters Commission with a Bachelors Degree in Children and Youth Ministry. She also received her pastoral license through the Assemblies of God in 2020. Melanie loves being outdoors, classic cars and all things Star Wars.
MICAH MARSHALL
Youth
Micah Marshall serves as our youth director on our Trans4mation Church Staff. He founded and pioneered a non profit youth ministry called Refuge Youth Network. The Refuge Youth Network serves students grades 6th and 12th. Micah graduated from Zion Bible College in 2009 and his wife Bethany is a graduate the University of Valley Forge. Micah joined the Trans4mation Staff team in May of 2013.
JOHN GRAY
Outreach, Lead Pastor of Hope Community
John pastors Hope Community Church located at 1520 11th St in Altoona, a recent church plant in The 11th Street Project building. He attended Central Bible College and received his minister's certification through the Berean University of the Assemblies of God. John joined the staff of PVAG in September of 2003. John and Tammy have seven children, Charity, Luke, Rachael, Sarah, Thomas, James, and Olivia.
CJ Flack
Youth Assistant
CJ Flack is the Director of the Altoona Campus here at Refuge. CJ has fourteen years of ministry experience, including five years focused on discipling and mentoring young people. As the Altoona campus director for Refuge Youth Network, he is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students and helping them grow in their faith. Originally from Philadelphia, CJ attended Philly Masters Commission, where he deepened his knowledge and passion for ministry. Beyond his pastoral role, he is an outgoing, athletic individual who thrives on community and connection. A devoted husband to Kye and a proud father to Amiya, CJ brings energy, humor, and authenticity to everything he does.
