Hunger will return, hair will grow, clothes will fade, but acts of love and encouragement create everlasting growth. - Kyle (founder)

Our Story

Make-A-Day was founded in 2018 by cousins Kyle, Alex, and Rebekah. The idea was sparked by a day spent with two unhoused neighbors, sharing a meal, shopping for clothes, and building connection, and by the example of their grandfather Ralph Emrich, who dedicated his life to service. Their first pop-up at 5th and High set the tone for MAD’s work: a place where meals, haircuts, and essentials opened the door to trust, dignity, and community.

Our Mission

At Make-A-Day, our mission is simple: to walk alongside neighbors experiencing homelessness and poverty, building dignity and opportunity through outreach, advocacy, and community care. We believe every person has goals, skills, and potential, and that with the right support, barriers can be cleared and new paths can open.

Our official mission statement:
To empower the impoverished through inclusive community events, acts of kindness, outreach, advocacy, and educational awareness.

Our Impact

Since 2018, MAD has:

• Shared 60,000+ meals with neighbors across Central Ohio

• Provided 12,000+ essentials like clothing and hygiene supplies

• Connected hundreds of guests to housing and jobs

• Engaged 500+ volunteers in building community care