Clay McQuerry spent the first 18 years of his life in Buckner, Missouri, and graduated from Fort Osage High School in 1979.  He received a Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree and a Master of Divinity degree from Texas Christian University.

"While pastoring churches in Texas and Missouri for 16 years, I went on numerous mission trips all over the United States, Canada, and Mexico.  I enjoyed helping the less fortunate people we served, but I also yearned to help the less fortunate people who lived in my communities.  I knew the need was there, even in my own neighborhood, but I did not know how to connect with them or how to provide assistance. Thanks to Rebuilding Together, I discovered the avenue I was seeking to reach our neighbors in need.”

With the help of several community leaders, Clay started Rebuilding Together Kansas City (RTKC) in 2001.  After initially serving as the Board President for a few years, he transitioned into the Executive Director position in 2006.  In recognition of his service to others, Clay received the Martin Luther King, Jr. Outstanding Public Service Award and Sertoma’s Service to Mankind Award.  Under his leadership, RTKC was identified as having a model Safe at Home program and was given a national award for “Excellence in Programming.”  Clay retired as the Executive Director on December 31^st, 2022.