We are excited to introduce our new Senior Director of Community Development, Marvin Nesbitt Jr.! Originally from South Carolina, Marvin brings decades of experience in social work and community development – including 12 years at the Atlanta Housing Authority.
“My purpose is rooted in my own life experiences, which means my entire career has been centered around helping people realize their potential. I want to see to it that individuals and families from underserved communities are able to walk a path that leads towards generational success. Over the course of my life, people saw potential in me and gave me the opportunities and support I needed to thrive. I’ve always wanted to see that the same opportunities and support are afforded to others who may share my similar life experiences,” he says.
Although Marvin has a special connection to Historic South Atlanta, he was not aware of FCS until he began researching the role he now holds.
“My nephew was a student at Carver High School, and I volunteered at the school a lot at the time,” Marvin explains. In particular, he volunteered to support the athletic teams his nephew was a part of, including getting snacks and food for them.
He recalls, “It was tricky to do, because at the time there was no grocery store nearby.”
Then one day, a grocery store showed up. Marvin says he remembers what a buzz it caused. Students started going there. He learned that there was a coffee shop next door that Carver teachers would visit regularly. Soon, Marvin started getting snacks at the store, too.
He laughs, “I never knew who owned it. I just knew it made a big difference in the lives of the kids and community members.”
Imagine his surprise when he was touring Historic South Atlanta with President Jim Wehner. They had already gone on a tour of the neighborhood highlighting the blocks of homes. Jim had told Marvin about our work in Training and Consulting and Neighborhood Engagement. Fast forward a few years. Then, they arrived at Carver Market.
Marvin was blown away. “This was you all, too? You’ve done all of this?” he exclaimed.
“At that moment, I knew I wanted to be a part of this organization. I had seen first hand the way it helps neighbors thrive.”
Now, Marvin says he’s looking forward to learning from the team of “talented individuals” who make up FCS. “I really am looking forward to working alongside them and locking arms with neighbors,” he says.
We’re so glad to welcome Marvin to the team, and we can’t wait for you to get to know him, too!
