Marvin & Karla Smith
Founders, Fired-Up!
Marvin and Karla Smith are devoted servant leaders committed to teaching, equipping, and inspiring others to live out their God-given purpose. Together, they fulfill the fivefold ministry described in Ephesians 4:11—Marvin serving as apostle, evangelist, pastor, and teacher, and Karla as prophet, pastor, and teacher.
In 1996, they founded Fired-Up!, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing and empowering servant leaders. The ministry includes a New Testament church that meets in their home, serving as a center for spiritual growth and leadership training. Operating in the gifts outlined in 1 Corinthians 12, Fired-Up! equips and sends leaders to impact their communities for Christ.
Over the years, Marvin and Karla have trained and mentored hundreds of emerging leaders who now lead ministries, nonprofits, and community initiatives across the nation. Their teaching blends spiritual insight with practical leadership strategies that help individuals grow in purpose and influence.
They are also active participants in the National Presidential Prayer Breakfast, a 70-year tradition that unites delegates from over 180 nations. Through their involvement, they help organize prayer gatherings that foster connection and unity among leaders of diverse backgrounds.
Their community work extends to education and social impact—partnering with local schools to provide mentorship, leadership development, and support for underserved youth. They also collaborate with organizations addressing poverty, inequality, and family restoration.
Recognized as influential voices in both faith-based and civic spaces, Marvin and Karla continue to inspire others through teaching, mentoring, and speaking. Their unwavering commitment to God’s call fuels their mission to raise up leaders who bring meaningful change.
Proud parents of six and “Big Daddy & Ma’Maw” to nine grandchildren, Marvin and Karla live by the Fired-Up! motto:
“If Not Us, Who? If Not Now, When?”