Rebuild the City's Board of Directors
Meet the team transforming the Atlanta urban community
Pastor Mark-Anthony Mitchell
Mark-Anthony Mitchell Sr. is the Founder and Executive Director of Rebuild the City Inc., a faith-based, volunteer-driven non-profit ministry dedicated to transforming urban communities. With over 40 years of leadership experience in ministry and community development, he has become a trusted catalyst for positive change in areas severely challenged by socioeconomic conditions.
A proud alumnus of Morehouse College and Harvard Divinity School, Mark earned his Master of Theological Studies from Harvard in 1997. His academic achievements and extensive experience have equipped him with a profound understanding of theology and social justice, which he applies to his ministry work and community initiatives.
Mark's commitment to education is not just a profession but a passion. He has served as an adjunct professor at Atlanta Metropolitan State College and as a Social Science and Special Education teacher at Redan High School. His passion for teaching, and his unwavering dedication to empowering others through knowledge and mentorship, has had a profound impact on the lives of his students and the community at large.
Previously, Mark was the lead pastor of Atlanta Urban Church from 2007 to 2011 within The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel Denomination. Under his leadership, the church became a beacon of hope in Atlanta's Lakewood district, particularly for residents re-entering society after incarceration. The church provided free preschool care, afterschool programs, mentorship, and daily meals, serving as a community hub for support and growth. Mark's work significantly improved the lives of many in the community.
Mark's service includes eight years in the U.S. Army as a non-commissioned officer and paratrooper stationed in Hanau, Germany, and at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. His military experience, which instilled discipline and a global perspective, further enriches his ministry and community development approach. This international perspective gained through his extensive travels, particularly in Africa and Europe, has inspired his work and broadened his understanding of poverty and community development.
Through Rebuild the City Inc., Mark addresses critical issues such as gangs, mass incarceration, sex trafficking, substance abuse, homelessness, and poverty in Atlanta. His personal experiences and encounters with these issues have fueled his passion and commitment to making a difference. He collaborates with non-profit organizations, corporations, foundations, and individuals worldwide to meet the spiritual and socioeconomic needs of the inner city. His vision, which includes establishing comprehensive transitional housing and discipleship programs, offers hope for a future of sustainable community transformation. Mark's goal is to create a model for community development that can be replicated in other urban areas, bringing hope to communities worldwide.
Mark's work has transformed the lives of individuals and the communities they are part of. His efforts have significantly reduced crime rates, increased access to education, and improved living conditions. His work with Rebuild the City Inc. reflects his lifelong commitment to empowering individuals to rebuild their lives through faith, education, and community support. Mark is passionate about challenging inner-city residents to embrace positive change and believe in the Gospel's transformative power. His life's work is dedicated to reaching those in the inner city and beyond with the love of Christ, establishing effective discipleship, and implementing community development programs that uplift and empower.
Sarah-Mae Amde is an award-winning CEO, author, and executive advisor with 20 years of experience leading transformative initiatives across sectors including banking, energy, government, research institutions, and non-profits. Known for driving profitability and building high-performing teams, she has successfully guided multi-million dollar projects that deliver sustainable results.
In addition to her extensive professional accomplishments, Sarah-Mae is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive cultures and empowering underrepresented groups in leadership positions. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Sarah-Mae dedicates much of her time to mentoring the next generation of leaders, offering guidance on navigating complex business landscapes and achieving long-term success. With a strategic approach to leadership and deep expertise in organizational transformation, Sarah-Mae brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her role on the Board of Directors.
Sarah-Mae Amde
Daniel Buggs
Daniel Buggs, former professional wide receiver for The New York Giants (NFL), Washington Commanders (NFL), Edmonton Eskimos (CFL), Tampa Bay Bandits (USFL), and San Antonio Gunslingers (USFL), was born in Duluth, Georgia. Mr. Buggs was an exceptional and legendary track and football star at Avondale High School, who then transitioned into a Hall of Fame (1995) collegiate player at West Virginia University, where he still holds multiple records and is beloved.
Mr. Buggs has always engaged in a life of service to others. This manifested even when he was employed in professional football by serving as a player union representative during his career. Mr. Buggs was a player in the NFL during the 1970s, in which HBCU provided 31% of the NFL's draft talent. Immediately upon his departure from professional football, he started a nonprofit organization called “The Winning Circle” in the inner city of Atlanta, offering mentoring and community outreach. He has been involved in this work for over 30 years now.
Otha Turnbough
Joyce McKibben
Joyce McKibben is a dedicated community leader and advocate, currently serving as the CEO and President of Repertoire Inc, a 501c3 non-profit organization focused on helping people in need since 2003.
Joyce served as Mayor of the city of Lithonia, and has served as a member of the Lithonia Civic League. She is currently Director of Success Mentoring, a Crime Prevention Mentorship Program in partnership with the Lithonia Police Department and the DeKalb School District. Ms. Mckibben is a Housing Commissioner for the City of Lithonia Housing Authority.
Joyce has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the community, receiving awards such as Citizen of the Year, Excellent Leadership, and Partners in Education. She is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others and is passionate about fostering a strong and supportive community for all. Her mission in life is to spread the love of God.
