MEET OUT TEAM
Chaplain
Jeff Thomas
Jeff Thomas is a Fort Wayne native of 57 years. Together, Jeff and his wife have four children. From an early age it was clear that there would be many obstacles and challenges along his journey. It was through overcoming those obstacles that developed Jeff's desire to help others.
Jeff is passionate about empowering individuals and guiding them into the truth of God's unconditional love. Drawing from his own life experiences, he connects with others in a relatable and authentic way, offering dynamic teaching, training, and transformative experiences.
With a rich background in ministry, Jeff has led recovery groups, served as a jail chaplain, provided leadership and church growth training to various congregations, and pastored his own church for many years. Currently, Jeff and his wife lead Back To The Garden Ministries, located in New Haven, IN. His commitment to seeing lives changed and strengthened in faith continues to inspire and equip those he serves.
Chaplain
Mark Broom
Chaplain Mark is a Pastor and Chaplin with the Foursquare denomination. He has served in the United States Marine Corps and is a retired correctional officer from the California Department of Corrections. He has also completed the Chaplin course through Life Pacific University. He has served in various ministries and roles with the Foursquare church and with Celebrate Recovery ministry. Chaplain Mark has been married for 15 years to his wife Stephene Broom and has five children and one grandchild.
Secretary
Anita M. Payton
Born and raised in Lima, OH. Born AGAIN in May 1976 at Mt. Olivet Church of God in Christ, she answered the call to ministry as Teacher, in July 1980. Moved to Fort Wayne, IN August 1982 to attend International Business College where she earned her accounting degree. Anita has been married to Pastor Michael Payton, Sr. for 41+ years. They have 2 adult children. She co-founded Restoration Center Church of God in Christ in January 2000. She's a missionary to Fort Wayne, South and Central America.
Anita retired in May 2019, after 35+ years in corporate America and most recently as a Sr. Business Process Trainer with a focus on new hire orientations. She is the author of "The God of Restoration", released in January 2023. She is Founder/CEO of Rehoboth Outreach, Inc., a non-profit organization where essential services are provided for the homeless community. Anita serves on the board and Executive Committee of the Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce. She is a volunteer for the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, NeighborLink, and The Chaplaincy at the Allen County Jail.
Anita loves serving Christ through serving others, reading, traveling, and meeting new people.
Chaplain
Brandi Turner
Born and raised in Lima, OH. Born AGAIN in May 1976 at Mt. Olivet Church of God in Christ, she answered the call to ministry as Teacher, in July 1980. Moved to Fort Wayne, IN August 1982 to attend International Business College where she earned her accounting degree. Anita has been married to Pastor Michael Payton, Sr. for 41+ years. They have 2 adult children. She co-founded Restoration Center Church of God in Christ in January 2000. She's a missionary to Fort Wayne, South and Central America.
Anita retired in May 2019, after 35+ years in corporate America and most recently as a Sr. Business Process Trainer with a focus on new hire orientations. She is the author of "The God of Restoration", released in January 2023. She is Founder/CEO of Rehoboth Outreach, Inc., a non-profit organization where essential services are provided for the homeless community. Anita serves on the board and Executive Committee of the Fort Wayne Black Chamber of Commerce. She is a volunteer for the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, NeighborLink, and The Chaplaincy at the Allen County Jail.
Anita loves serving Christ through serving others, reading, traveling, and meeting new people.
2025 Board of Directors
John Alexander
Don Harvey
Carl Hoffman
Stephanie Lee
Bennie Lewis
Mick Lomont
Lisa Otis
Roger Reece
Bob Washburn
Everleina Wattley
Robert Wearley
Julie Wood