Building Bridges of Hope

Rev. Elijah Shafah is a visionary leader, devoted pastor, and trailblazer whose life embodies purposeful service and transformative impact. With nearly a quarter century of stellar pastoral leadership, he has shepherded his congregation with unwavering dedication, guiding countless believers toward spiritual maturity and purposeful living. As the founder of the Flipper Foundation, he has pioneered innovative approaches to community development and empowerment, touching lives far beyond the pulpit through his commitment to holistic transformation. A man of deep faith and compassion, Rev. Shafah leads with wisdom and authenticity, inspiring others to pursue both spiritual growth and practical action. Beyond his ministerial calling, he is a dedicated husband and father who exemplifies the values of love, integrity, and resilience in every sphere of his life. His multifaceted leadership continues to forge new paths in ministry, philanthropy, and community transformation, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Dr. Jolley is the retired two-time president of Morris Brown College.  He spent 44 years in education including 6 years as the CEO of the Atlanta University Center, Inc. and 26 years as Professor, administrator and Dean at Fort Valley State College.  In addition to serving as the Flipper Foundation Board Chair, he serves as the Chair of the Council of HBCU Past Presidents in Atlanta, Steward Pro Tem and Vice Chair of the Commission on Stewardship and Finance at Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church. He is a member of the Fort Valley State University, the National Black College Alumni and the Georgia State Omega Psi Phi Organization Halls of Fame. He is  a devoted family man having been married to his queenly wife, Jimmye H. Jolley, for more than 61 years with two lovely children and four grandsons.

Gloria Roberts Matthews is a Georgia native and proud alumna of Morris Brown College who built a distinguished 45-year career with The Kroger Co. She advanced from a part-time cashier to influential leadership roles, including recruiting, selecting, training, and mentoring managerial staff for more than 180 stores across three states. Recognized among the Top Women in Grocery and featured in national publications, Gloria is also a graduate of The Executive Leadership Development Program. Deeply committed to service, she has volunteered with Special Olympics Georgia, supported the USO, participated in Susan G. Komen initiatives, and contributed to UNCF fundraising efforts for more than 14 years. At Flipper Temple AME Church, Gloria serves in multiple ministries and is instrumental in the successful operation of Flipper’s Sylvia Williams Food Pantry, which provides nutritious food to unhoused individuals, families, seniors, and children—serving more than 16,500 people annually. Devoted to her family, grounded in faith, and dedicated to uplifting others, Gloria Roberts Matthews continues to lead with compassion, service, and unwavering commitment.

Paris Brown is a native of Atlanta, Georgia and is a product of the Atlanta Public School System being a graduate of Northside High School. He holds undergraduate degrees from Georgia State University with majors in General Studies and Urban Life Government.

He completed a thirty-two career with Fulton County Government in the Human Resources Department. He served as Division Manager, Deputy Director and retired as the first African American Personnel Director of Fulton County Government. In addition, he served as a Human Resources Consultant to the Sheriff Department for over eight years.

He is also a member of the 100 Black Men Of America -South Metro Atlanta Chapter where he has served on the Executive Board. In addition, he served as Vice Chair of the Friends Council of Robert W. Woodruff Library on the AU campus. He was also appointed to the TAD Executive Committee of the BeltLine.

Mr. Brown is a lifelong member of Flipper Temple A.M.E. Church where he serves on several Boards and auxiliaries.

Billette D. Owens Ashford is an accomplished educator and community leader with over 40 years of experience in education and youth mentoring. A retired Atlanta Public Schools veteran, she now serves as an assistant professor of Kinesiology and Sports Studies at Morehouse College.

She has led and supported numerous civic and philanthropic initiatives through organizations such as the Ivy Community Foundation, Churches Homes Foundation, and Clark Atlanta University Guild. Her community partnerships include projects with the Arthur M. Blank Foundation, Jane Fonda Foundation, the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games Committee, and the NFL Foundation.

Her lifelong dedication to education and service embodies the Foundation’s mission to advance social change through collaboration, compassion, and innovation.

Mr., Edwards is a native of Savannah, Georgia.  Where he attended Public Schools of Savannah and Chatham County.

He is a graduate of Savannah State University Bachelor of Science.

Served in the United States Military Air Force with four years of active service- Ran Sergeant- Honorable Discharge Career:  Over thirty years of management experience in city, county and federal housing programs.

The Housing Authority of Savannah, Manager, Acquisitions and Relocations City of Savannah Housing Department Senior Inspector for Community and Economic Development 

The Housing Authority of Fulton 

Housing Specialist, Intake for public housing applicants and Housing Choice Voucher Programs funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Fulton County Government -Department of Housing and Community Development 

Manager, Fulton County’s Single-Family Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Programs funded by CBDG and Homes Programs.