Help us Carry our Mission Forward

Giving is not just one day for us. It is our lifestyle.

At the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation, we spend the entire year pouring love into our community. This year we not only fed our local neighbors we even made an impact globally and were able to support a project to feed youth in the Philippines. We also completed another round of our Success Looks Different Fireside Chat- Workshop skill development series for a local homeless shelter, continued our support of Seniors and Veterans with our annual cookout, and created or assisted with meaningful service projects that remind people that compassion is always in season.

Every project that we complete is powered by people who believe in service and want to make an impact that lasts beyond a moment. Your generosity helps us provide meals, build supply kits, support families, and continue creating experiences that uplift our communities in Durham, Roxboro, and beyond.

If you would like to support our mission, here are ways to give:

Make a donation to help us continue feeding and supporting our neighbors. DONATE TODAY!

Volunteer at one of our upcoming service events.

Sponsor a project through your business, organization, or group.

Share our Mission with someone who believes in community care.

Thank you for standing with us this year. With your support we will keep showing up, keep serving, and keep spreading love far beyond the calendar.

Giving is who we are. And we are just getting started.

A Beautiful Day of Service: The Annual Wallace Umstead Legacy Cookout 9/12/25

The Annual Wallace Umstead Legacy Cookout was a true celebration of community, joy, and legacy. On this special day, our team, volunteers, and partners came together to honor seniors and veterans in memory of our founder’s late father, Wallace Umstead. The atmosphere was filled with love, music, laughter, and heartfelt moments that will not be forgotten.

Special Guests and Honors

We were honored to welcome the Mayor of Roxboro, who brought a special acknowledgement from her office and the City of Roxboro. In addition, we received a touching letter from Governor Josh Stein, acknowledging the event and the importance of uplifting seniors and veterans in our communities. We also welcomed a State House of Representatives Member and the new Executive Director of the facility, making the day even more memorable.

Residents’ Voices and Legacy Moments

The residents’ gratitude was the highlight of the day. Some of the newer residents expressed how thankful they were for the celebration, while others who had known Wallace Umstead shared private conversations about how deeply they miss him. One resident reminded us of the reality that seniors are often forgotten. Our response was simple but heartfelt: you are not forgotten, and you are still a shining light in this world.

Volunteers and Community Spirit

Our volunteer squad, made up of family and friends, was truly top notch. Their dedication and energy kept the event running smoothly and ensured that every resident felt valued. Our DJ kept the music flowing and the smiles wide, making the celebration feel like a true family gathering.

Gratitude to Our Sponsors

This event would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors. AuthoraCare Collective went above and beyond, not only providing immense support but also donating thoughtful door prizes for both residents and staff. Roxboro Savings Bank and UTZ Snacks also played a significant role in helping us create such a joyful and memorable event. We are so grateful for their commitment to supporting seniors and veterans.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

The Wallace Umstead Legacy Cookout is more than just an event — it is a reminder of the importance of honoring our seniors and veterans, keeping their stories alive, and making sure they always feel valued. We are proud to continue this tradition in memory of Wallace Umstead, whose legacy of love, service, and community shines through every smile and every word of gratitude shared.

At Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation, we remain committed to uplifting and serving our community, one project at a time. The cookout is a reflection of what happens when love, service, and partnership come together to create impact.

Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation x Rise Against Hunger: Join Us to Make a Global Impact!

We are thrilled to announce the first-ever collaboration between Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation and Rise Against Hunger! On May 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM, we’re coming together for a powerful mission: packaging 1,000 meals to be sent to Haiti or the Philippines—wherever the need is greatest.

This event is more than just meal-packing—it’s a chance to create change beyond our own communities. With just 10-15 volunteers, we can make a direct impact on food insecurity worldwide.

We invite you to be a part of this movement by volunteering or donating to help make this event a success. Every meal we package brings hope to those in need, and your support means everything.

Sign up or donate here: https://www.riseagainsthunger.org/register/?id=701Pj00000AEg1eIAD

For this project all donations and volunteer sign ups will be done at the link above. Address to the event: Rise Against Hunger Warehouse
3200 Wellington Court Suite 112
Raleigh, NC 27610

Let’s come together, take action, and show that giving back has no borders!

Will you join us?

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM MISSTAKENID GIVES BACK FOUNDATION!

WELCOME TO 2025!

As we step into a new year, we’re filled with gratitude for the incredible impact we’ve made together in our communities. Your support and dedication to our mission of “Empowering Communities through impactful service, one project at a time” have been truly inspiring.

This year, we’re excited to continue our meaningful work and announce a brand-new initiative that will expand our reach and impact. Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to share what’s in store!

We’re also thrilled to open individual sign-ups for our larger volunteer projects in 2025. If you’ve ever wanted to get involved and make a difference, this is your chance to join our amazing volunteer squad. Together, we can achieve even greater things this year!

Here’s to a 2025 filled with service, growth, and positive change. Thank you for being part of the Misstakenid Gives Back family. Let’s make this year one to remember!

With gratitude,
The Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation Team

Outstanding Partnership Award: A Moment of Gratitude and Impact

December 12, 2024 was a proud moment for the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation.

We were honored to receive the Outstanding Partnership Award at the Families Moving Forward Annual Gala. This recognition highlights the impact of the programs we provide to support families and individuals on their journey to rebuilding their lives.

At the heart of this work is our signature workshop series, “Success Looks Different For Everyone: The Fireside Chat.”

These workshops aim to help residents at the family shelter:

Identify their transferable skills and talents

Build connections with community members

Explore new perspectives on what success can look like for them

The feedback we’ve received from Families Moving Forward staff is super inspiring.

They shared that our workshops are a highlight for residents and among the most highly attended programs at the shelter. This speaks to the power of creating safe, intentional spaces where people can feel seen, heard, and empowered.

For me, as the founder of this organization this work is deeply personal. I believe success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept; it’s a journey that looks different for everyone. Whether it’s reigniting a passion, taking the first step toward a dream, or finding the courage to start again, every step counts.

This award is a reminder of the strength that comes from community, collaboration, and compassion. It motivates us to continue our mission of giving back and helping others see the potential within themselves.

To everyone who supports the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation—thank you for believing in this work. Together, we can continue making a difference, one step at a time.

Let’s keep showing that success truly does look different for everyone.

Stay Connected!

Follow us for updates on upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to get involved.

#MisstakenidGivesBack #FamiliesMovingForward #SuccessLooksDifferent #CommunityImpact #GivingBack

Impact of the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation Day of Service 2024

December 6 & 7, 2024, the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation held its highly anticipated Day of Service Weekend, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. With the power of community and compassion, we came together to make a tangible impact on the lives of so many. Here’s a recap of our incredible two-day event.

Friday: Feeding Our Unhoused Neighbors in Durham

We kicked off the weekend by addressing one of the most immediate needs in our community: hunger. With the help of volunteers and generous donors, we were able to serve 250 of our unhoused neighbors in Durham. Providing warm meals to those in need is one of the ways we show that every person deserves dignity and care, and the gratitude we received from those we served was truly heartwarming.

Saturday: A Day Full of Giving and Love

On Saturday, the focus shifted to preparation and distribution. Our Founder also received a proclamation from the Mayor of Durham to commemorate the occasion.

It was a whirlwind of activity as volunteers assembled and distributed various essential items for different groups within our community:

Supply Bags for Our Unhoused Neighbors: These bags were packed with snacks, toiletries, and cold-weather essentials to help those living on the streets face the winter months.

Care Packages for a Family Shelter: These packages were filled with practical and comforting items to support families in transitional housing.

500 Sandwiches for a Local Homeless Shelter: Simple but impactful, these sandwiches ensured that a local shelter could feed their guests.

Senior Love and Winter Cheer Kits: Seniors and veterans at an assisted living facility in Roxboro, NC, received personalized kits with cozy items, personal care essentials, and heartfelt messages to brighten their day.

Items for the VA Hospice and Veteran’s Pantry: We also supported veterans in hospice care and contributed to a pantry that serves those who have served our country.

Each act of service was a reminder that small, thoughtful gestures can make a world of difference.

A Community United by Purpose

This weekend wasn’t just about giving back—it was about coming together as a community to create moments of hope and joy. None of this would have been possible without the amazing team of volunteers, donors, and supporters who shared our vision.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the impact of this year’s Day of Service Weekend, we are more inspired than ever to continue building bridges of kindness in Durham, Roxboro, and beyond. If you’re interested in joining us for future events or supporting our mission, we would love to hear from you! Together, we can make giving back a way of life.

Stay connected:

Follow the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation on social media and subscribe to our newsletter to learn more about upcoming service opportunities.

Let’s keep the momentum going—because when we work together, the possibilities are endless.

mini video weekend recap

PROCLAMATION

Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation Day : A Celebration of Community Service

On December 7, 2024, the City of Durham, will unite to celebrate an extraordinary milestone: The Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation Day of Service. This Day officially proclaimed by the Mayor of Durham, Leonardo Williams, honors the tireless efforts of our foundation to uplift our community through acts of service and compassion.

For years the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation, lead by founder Akeeya Umstead, has worked to create impactful programs that address pressing community needs from feeding the hungry, to providing resources to unhoused neighbors, families, and giving support to seniors and veterans. Now this special proclamation not only recognizes the work that we have done but also inspires us to go even further.

On this monumental day, we will have community members to join us in giving back. Activities will include:

Making and distributing 500 sandwiches for a local homeless shelter.

Creating care packages for families at a local family shelter.

Preparing supply packages with toiletries, snacks and warmth for unhoused neighbors.

Preparing special gift bags for seniors and veterans in Roxboro, NC.

Packaging special items from the needs list for the Veteran’s Administration Hospital Hospice and Veteran’s Pantry

This Day of Service reflects our collective commitment to building a stronger, more supportive community. We believe that when we come together, we can create real change and inspire others to embrace the power of giving.

Let’s make December 7, 2024, a day to remember. Mark you calendar, join the movement, and help us celebrate this incredible honor!

Together, we serve. Together we thrive.

The event will take place at I.R. Holmes Sr. Recreation Center at Campus Hills December, 7, 2024, starting at 10:00 am, volunteer slots have been filled.

The Spirit of Giving Tuesday with Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation

This season of giving, Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation is committed to making a difference in our community. From feeding the hungry to supporting families in need, every contribution helps us create a ripple effect of kindness and impact.

Join us in giving back and making a meaningful difference TODAY! DONATE TODAY!

Impactful Group Volunteer Opportunities at Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation

At Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation, we believe in the power of community and the impact that comes from working together. Group volunteer efforts not only help address urgent needs in our neighborhoods but also foster a sense of unity and purpose. When individuals come together to serve, they inspire each other and create lasting change.

Whether it’s organizing pop-up events, helping out with skill development workshops, packing supply bags for those in need, or participating in hunger relief projects, our group volunteer opportunities offer something for everyone.

These experiences allow teams, families, and friends to join hands and make a difference in just a few hours, with a high impact that extends far beyond the event itself.

At Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation, we are committed to educating and engaging volunteers, ensuring that every person understands the value of their contribution. Together, we can build stronger, more resilient communities.

Join us on our mission to make giving back accessible and meaningful for all.

Join our Volunteer Squad Today!!! Click this link: https://forms.gle/UFxaJ38buc3ju8cbA

For groups of over 5 people, please send an email to mgbfoundation.org@gmail.com

Thanksgiving Give Back: Adopt a Family Initiative

This Thanksgiving the Misstakenid Gives Back Foundation is ready to continue our mission of serving the community by adopting 3 families in need.

We were able to reach out to the Triangle Non Profit and Volunteer Center and join their long standing Thanksgiving Dinner Sponsor Program in partnership with Durham County Social Services.

We believe that everyone deserves to experience the warmth of the holiday season, and through this initiative, we aim to provide nourishing meals and other essentials to brighten their Thanksgiving.

Our Foundation is committed to bringing communities together and this project reflects our dedication to making an impact where it is needed most. By adopting families we are not just providing food – we’re sharing hope, gratitude, and the spirit of giving.

Stay connected with us to learn more about how you can get involved and help spread kindness this holiday season. Together, we can make Thanksgiving a time of celebration for Everyone!

To donate and help us with adopting the families click here DONATE TODAY!

We will shop for everything and make our meal deliveries by November 22, 2024, depending on the availability of the families.