Who We Are, Our History

In 2017, Greater Second Baptist Church received a generous land donation from Lake Liquors, thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Jason Polk. Tired of paying taxes and maintaining the property, they decided to give it to the church across the street. Initially, Mr. Polk thought that Geyer Springs Baptist Church still occupied 5615 Geyer Springs Road, but he soon learned that it was now the home of Greater Second Baptist Church. Realizing the old church was no longer there, he informed his wife, and they agreed to donate the property at 5816 Geyer Springs Road to the new congregation.

In 2019, GSBC established the nonprofit Southwest Housing Association, Inc., led by Pastor David Featherstone, Mr. Kenneth Wade, Reverend Jason Ridout, and Administrator Marvin Jarrett. After registering with the state, progress was hindered by the passing of Mr. Wade in 2020 and the onset of the pandemic. Undeterred, Pastor Featherstone gathered the first Board of Directors, which included Senator Linda Chesterfield and Rev. Dr. Charlie (CE) Edward McAdoo. The Board and GSBC decided to appoint a new Executive Director, electing Mrs. Wonder Lowe to the position on May 25, 2024. Under her guidance, the organization has achieved federal tax-exempt status and is focused on securing funding and completing predevelopment for Curtis Ridout Manor. The Board has also expanded to include Mrs. Janet Johnson and Mrs. Rona Moody.

Curtis Ridout, who dedicated 46 years of service to GSBC and was known for his commitment to the community, especially the elderly, will be honored through the planned affordable housing development for seniors and veterans named after him. Once completed, Curtis Ridout Manor will feature 72 one-bedroom units, accommodating up to 144 residents.