community engagement and youth empowerment foundation, inc.
community engagement and youth empowerment foundation, inc.
  • Home
  • About
  • Programs and Initiatives
  • Impact
  • Scholarships and Grants
  • Get Involved
  • News and Events
  • More
    • Home
    • About
    • Programs and Initiatives
    • Impact
    • Scholarships and Grants
    • Get Involved
    • News and Events

  • Home
  • About
  • Programs and Initiatives
  • Impact
  • Scholarships and Grants
  • Get Involved
  • News and Events

CEAYE Foundation Leadership

Portrait of a man in a blue suit with bow tie and glasses.

Gary G. Garner, President

 

Gary Garner is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and a respected business leader, community advocate, and design professional with a passion for empowering individuals and strengthening communities. He is currently working as a Project Engineer for the Army Corp of Engineers, at Ft. Bragg. When available, he offers his time as a Architectural Designer in the family business, Garner Design, LLC, a multidisciplinary consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, community development, design solutions, and stakeholder engagement. 

Gary is also a Co-Founder of the CEAYE Foundation, where he works to advance initiatives focused on education, leadership and youth development, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment.

Gary earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Technology from Norfolk State University and a Master of Architecture degree from Hampton University. Throughout his career, he has successfully collaborated with public, private, and nonprofit organizations to develop innovative programs, foster strategic partnerships, and create opportunities that promote economic growth and community impact.

With a commitment to excellence, service, and transformational leadership, Gary continues to leverage his professional expertise and community-focused vision to inspire positive change and help build stronger, more resilient communities.

Professional man in beige suit and dark tie against a brown background.

Carlos A. Jones, Vice President

 

Carol A. Jones is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, and a dedicated leader whose life and career have been defined by service, integrity, and commitment to community. As a retired United States Army veteran and retired civil servant, Carol brings decades of experience in leadership, operations, and public service to every endeavor.

As a Co-Founder of the CEAYE Foundation, Carol is committed to advancing the organization's mission of empowering youth, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities through education, leadership development, and entrepreneurship. His passion for mentoring and community engagement reflects a lifelong dedication to helping others achieve success and reach their full potential.

Throughout his distinguished military and civilian careers, Carol demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. Today, he continues to apply those values through his work with the CEAYE Foundation, helping to inspire positive change and build a brighter future for generations to come.

Professional man in suit and glasses posing for a formal portrait.

Bryan D. Paige, Chairman of the Board

 

Bryan D. Paige is a native of Columbus, Georgia, and a dedicated public servant whose distinguished career reflects a lifelong commitment to leadership, justice, and community service. As a retired United States Army veteran and retired civil servant, Bryan has devoted decades to serving his country and community with honor, professionalism, and integrity.

Bryan earned his degree from Georgia State University and has built a career founded on service, accountability, and a deep commitment to helping others. He currently serves as a Magistrate Judge for Cumberland County, where he plays a vital role in upholding the law, ensuring fair judicial proceedings, and serving the citizens of the community with impartiality and respect. His extensive experience in both military and civilian service has equipped him with a unique perspective on leadership, accountability, and public trust.

As the Chairman of the Board for the CEAYE Foundation, Bryan is committed to advancing initiatives that empower youth, promote leadership development, support entrepreneurship, and strengthen communities. His dedication to mentoring others and fostering opportunities for personal and professional growth aligns closely with the Foundation's mission to inspire positive change and create pathways for success.

Throughout his career, Bryan has exemplified the values of service, excellence, and civic responsibility. He continues to leverage his experience and leadership to make a meaningful impact in Fayetteville and beyond, helping to build stronger communities and brighter futures for generations to come.

About Us

We Are in the Community

Empowering Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Success.

Empowering Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Success.

 Making a difference one family, one youth, and one neighborhood at a time. Committed to creating positive change through action. 

Empowering Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Success.

Empowering Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Success.

Empowering Today's Youth for Tomorrow's Success.

Through mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities that inspire lifelong achievement.

Honoring Service. Restoring Hope. Building Futures.

Preserving Tradition. Building Opportunity: William and Mattie Carver Concession Stand Initiative.

Preserving Tradition. Building Opportunity: William and Mattie Carver Concession Stand Initiative.

 Providing affordable housing and supportive services that empower veterans to achieve stability, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Preserving Tradition. Building Opportunity: William and Mattie Carver Concession Stand Initiative.

Preserving Tradition. Building Opportunity: William and Mattie Carver Concession Stand Initiative.

Preserving Tradition. Building Opportunity: William and Mattie Carver Concession Stand Initiative.

 Together, we're creating a lasting community asset that celebrates the proud legacy of E. E. Smith High School while investing in its future. 

CEAYE Foundation Overview

Download PDF

Our Partners

Connect With Us

Copyright © 2026 CEAYE Foundation - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by

This website uses cookies.

We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.

Accept