Cameron Whitson

Description text goes hereAs a speech therapist in the public-school system, holds a master's degree in communications and dedicated twenty-eight years to serving the Greenville County School District. With a lifelong commitment to working with children, she embraces the challenge of helping them overcome disabilities. Jo, alongside her husband Maurice, is an active member of Gap Creek Baptist Church. She is acutely aware of the impact of drugs and alcohol on families, having supported two sons through alcohol and drug rehabilitation, a journey prompted by the effects of an alcoholic father.

As a lifelong resident of the Slater-Marietta community, boasts over forty years of experience in the criminal justice system. His passion lies in serving the community through involvement in recovery groups and facilitating connections to resources that empower individuals to progress in their lives. Throughout his extensive career, he has witnessed the profound effects of broken families and the generational impact of certain behaviors within the criminal justice field. Actively engaged in various capacities at Marietta First Baptist Church, Jimmy finds joy in missions, outreach efforts, both locally and globally, emphasizing his commitment to making a positive impact in diverse communities.

Maurice holds a Master of Divinity Degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate from Fuller Theological Seminary. Retired as a Baptist minister, he continues to contribute as a church growth consultant. With a pastoral history that includes 18 years at Marietta First Baptist Church and 17 years at First Baptist Indian Trail, NC, Maurice possesses a unique connection to Marietta's current families, having pastored their parents. Growing up in a substance-abusive home and losing a sister to drug abuse has fueled his passion for relational Christianity. He is deeply committed to addressing the impact of drugs on children and families, drawing from personal experience to advocate for healing and understanding within communities.

Rhonda, a lifelong resident of the Slater-Marietta community, finds joy in serving her church, family, and community. A retired elementary school teacher, she now imparts her knowledge in a women's recovery home. Rhonda wears many hats at Marietta First Baptist Church, actively participating in various roles, including facilitating addiction support groups. With a passion for missions, she believes in the inherent value of every individual and strives to empower families to reach their fullest potential. Rhonda's dedication to uplifting others and fostering community well-being reflects her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those around her.

Jo earned her degree after attending Gardner-Webb and Clemson universities and has since devoted her career to healthcare, serving as both an RN and a family nurse practitioner in the Slater-Marietta and Travelers Rest communities. Currently, she dedicates her compassionate care to Pro Medica Hospice, where she supports individuals facing the end of life and their families. Through her daily work, Jo intimately engages with families impacted by addiction, witnessing firsthand the enduring effects of this struggle. Beyond her professional endeavors, Jo has personal experiences within her own family where members have been significantly affected by substance abuse and addiction. She resides in Travelers Rest with her husband, bringing both professional expertise and personal empathy to her commitment to improving the well-being of others.

Susan obtained her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from North Greenville University and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. With 15 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she has been dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the challenges of life, fostering growth in the face of adversity. Susan has also contributed to children and family services in various capacities. Currently serving as the Executive Director for Heritage Institute, she is also the owner of Susan Tankersley Family Therapy. Through her extensive background and roles, Susan is committed to making a positive impact on the well-being of individuals, couples, and families in their journey towards growth and resilience.

Carlton Owens, a distinguished forester and wildlife biologist, holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Mississippi State University. Over the course of 45 years, he has contributed significantly to both corporate and non-profit roles in the forest sector. Formerly the VP of Forest Policy with Champion International Corp, where he held global responsibilities, Carlton retired in December 2020 after serving for 15 years as the founding president and CEO of the US Endowment for Forestry and Communities. This organization stands as North America's largest nonprofit dedicated to protecting forest and rural, forest-rich communities across Canada and the US. With extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and fundraising, Carlton brings valuable insights to his roles. Outside of his professional endeavors, he remains an active member of Gap Creek Baptist Church.