About Uplift Us
Serving families with hope, dignity, and compassion for over 5 years.
“Uniting Communities, Empowering Families, Building Brighter Futures”
Our Mission
At Uplift Community Outreach, our mission is to engage, empower, and work alongside our community to improve the lives of families facing hunger, homelessness, and hardship. We believe every child and parent deserves access to the resources and support they need to rise above challenges and reach their full potential.
Our Vision
A brighter future where families thrive, communities unite, and compassion is passed on for generations to come.
Our Approach
Our approach is holistic and community-centered.
We focus on:
Education & Skills – Uplift Learning Academy for youth and adults
Nutrition & Relief – Feed the Hungry and emergency food support
Connection & Care – Uplift Connect for seniors
Celebration & Joy – Gift a Child holiday aid program
Economic Empowerment – Supplemental income opportunities through Shundra Williams Business Services
Volunteer your time and skills
Donate to support families and seniors
Join Our Board and guide our mission
How You Can Help
Our History
2018 – Founded in Tallahassee by a small group of compassionate FSU graduastes and community members.
2019–2020 – Expanded programs to include Holiday Aid program and family support services.
2021 – Launched Uplift Connect, our senior companion program.
2022 – Launched Uplift Learning Academy.
Today – Serving hundreds across the region with education, food, companionship, and hope.
Community Impact
Academic improvement in children
Increased family stability
Greater self-sufficiency among parents
Stronger, more resilient communities supporting one another
At Uplift Community Outreach, we are more than an organization—we are a family dedicated to lifting each other up and creating brighter futures. Together, we can continue to break down barriers, inspire hope, and build a legacy of compassion that will resonate for generations. Join us on this journey of transformation and be part of a movement that uplifts lives.
Meet Our Team
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![A woman with short curly hair leaning against a reflective metallic wall outdoors.]()
Samantha Parks
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![A man with a beard and sunglasses standing in a parking garage at night, wearing a black short-sleeve shirt, black pants, and a watch.]()
Derrick Williams
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![A smiling woman with shoulder-length black hair wearing a blue top, standing among green plants.]()
Liz Parker
When I first started Uplift Community Outreach over five years ago, it was born out of a simple but powerful conviction: no one should feel forgotten. I saw firsthand the struggles families faced—parents trying to put food on the table, young people searching for direction, and seniors longing for companionship.
I believed that with compassion, education, and community, we could create spaces where people didn’t just survive but truly thrived. Over the years, we’ve served families through meals, life-skills classes, senior companion calls, and holiday programs like Gift a Child. Each smile, each story, each thank-you reminded me that even small acts of service can ripple into big change.
2026 marks a new chapter for Uplift. Though this past year has been slower, we are relaunching with renewed purpose and fresh energy. My hope is that together—with volunteers, donors, and community partners—we will continue to build a future where every child, adult, and senior has the dignity, support, and opportunities they deserve.
With gratitude,
LaShundra “Shundra” Williams
Founder & Director, Uplift Community Outreach
Founder’s Note
Ready to Get Involved?
Contact Us
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