Founder of the Dream Center Indianapolis and the Dream Big Network. Creator of
#NormalIsNotEnough
From dishwasher to nonprofit founder, Michael’s story is proof that where you start doesn’t decide where you land. Today he leads regional and national work to disrupt the cycle of poverty for single mothers and former foster youth.
Michael Woods is a dynamic leader in the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, bringing over 20 years of experience in business leadership and ministry to his current work. His journey started in Anderson, Indiana where he began as a dishwasher in 1999 before moving through various roles in healthcare and senior leadership.
Alongside his healthcare career, Michael served as Senior Pastor from 2007 to 2013 of a mission focused church that fed 107,000 families. From 2001 to 2015, he also served as a Director for Acquire the Fire and Teen Mania Ministries, and as project Director for Global Expeditions.
In 2021 he founded the Dream Big Network, successfully launching Dream Center Indianapolis - a campus of the Dream Big Network. Michael oversees regional and national initiatives designed to disrupt and reverse the cycle of poverty for single mothers and former Foster youth. The Dream Big Network creates synergy by leading leaders across various disciplines, including nonprofit, for-profit, media and arts, education, and community to amplify their collective impact.
In 2026, Michael also launched an investment fund pairing market-rate capital with philanthropic capital for mission-driven real estate.
Michael currently serves on the board of directors for Charitable Allies, First American Harvest, and The Renaissance Foundation.
Dream Center Indianapolis & the Dream Big Network, founded 2021, leading poverty-disruption initiatives for single mothers and former foster youth
Think like Jesus: 365 Daily Declarations, a devotional offering daily reflections rooted in scripture and practical faith.
Charitable Allies and The Renaissance Foundation.