Who We Are
Our Strategic Frame
Commitment to Empowering People and Unlocking Their Potential
At Project REBUILD, our work is guided by a Strategic Frame that reflects our commitment to empowering people and unlocking their potential.
This frame is built on three core beliefs:
All people have untapped potential and inherent value
We believe that every person has the capacity to achieve greatness. Our programs are designed to help them discover and develop their strengths, leading to lifelong success.
Meaningful connections and experiences nurture long-term success
We understand that strong relationships and positive experiences are essential for lasting achievement. We create a supportive environment where people can grow, learn, and build a foundation for the future.
Collaborative partnerships make our work possible
We know that our impact is greater when we work together. By partnering with community organizations, employers, and educational institutions, we expand opportunities and strengthen the support systems that help our participants succeed.
Igniting Potential Everywhere
Our Purpose and Ambition
At the heart of Project REBUILD is our purpose: Our programs of self-discovery and skill development unleash the potential of people to be leaders and contributors to their teams, families, and communities. We are driven by our ambition to ignite the spark of possibility in all the lives we touch. This purpose fuels our commitment to empowering individuals and creating lasting, positive change.
Our History
A Bold Vision Realized
In 1998, Carolyn Hess took a bold step to address a critical need in our community. Troubled by high dropout rates and inspired by the potential she saw in every young person, Carolyn set out to create a program that would offer a new path to success. After learning from a similar initiative in Dayton and with the support of former Ohio First Lady Hope Taft, Carolyn founded Project REBUILD in Canton, Ohio in 1999.
Starting from her home, Carolyn laid the groundwork for what has become a dynamic organization dedicated to empowering youth through education, vocational training, and leadership development. Today, Project REBUILD continues to build on this foundation, making a lasting impact in our community.
Our Future
Expanding Our Impact
As we look to the future, Project REBUILD remains committed to our core mission of empowering young people and providing them with the tools for success. At the same time, we are exploring new types of programming to meet the needs of other community members. We believe that by expanding our reach, we can continue to make a positive impact on our community.
Our plans include developing innovative programs that address emerging needs while staying true to our values and Strategic Frame. Whether through new educational opportunities, expanded vocational training, or additional community engagement initiatives, we are dedicated to helping more people unlock their potential and achieve their goals.
Building Brighter Tomorrows
Join Us
Project REBUILD is proud of the impact we have made and excited about the future. We are committed to continuing our work of empowering youth, supporting their growth, and expanding our reach to serve more members of our community.
Join us in our mission to build a brighter future. Together, we can harness potential, foster growth, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.
Dedicated Board Leadership
Guiding Our Mission with Dedication and Vision
At Project REBUILD, our Board of Trustees plays a pivotal role in guiding our mission and shaping the future of our organization. Comprised of community leaders, professionals, and advocates who are deeply committed to our cause, the Board provides strategic oversight, ensures financial stewardship, and helps us stay true to our mission of empowering people in our community.
Project REBUILD, Inc. Board of Trustees
Beverly Long
Chairman
Jacob Martin
Vice-Chairman
Jeff Buckshaw
Treasurer
Sarah Buell
Secretary
Katie Erchick-Gilbert
Kamaran Gray
Aisha Holt
Kate Immel
Patrick King
Gabrielle Kline
Mandi Larson
Are you interested in possibly serving on our board?
The Board meets on the 3rd Wednesday of February, April, June, August, October, and December at 7:30 AM for approximately one hour. Board members serve 3-year terms, with the option to serve up to 3 terms. There are 3 standing committees: Board Development, Events Planning, and the Site Committee.
- Expectations:
- Think Strategically
- Advocate Fiercely
- Contribute Generously
- Operate Responsibly
- Ongoing Opportunities for Board Members to Support the Organization
- Attend graduation celebrations
- Co-host a Lunch & Learn
- Invite us to tour your workplace
- Mentor one of our members
- Volunteer to work community events with us
If you’re interested in learning more or speaking to our Board President, please email boardpresident@projectrebuild.org
