Mission
Our mission is to strengthen and unify our community by reshaping the lives of youth and adults through education, personal and professional development, and volunteerism.
Vision
To create a world where every student has access to the support, knowledge, and resources needed to reach their full potential and become successful members in their respective communities.
We understand that personal and professional development is crucial in unlocking one's full potential.
Darnell Taylor
Founder & Executive Director
Darnell Taylor A retired Information Technology Specialist with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is the driving force behind transformative programs designed to uplift disadvantaged children, families, and the elderly throughout Georgia.
With a Bachelor of Science in Technical Management, Darnell’s leadership journey began through her active participation in the National Society of Leadership and Success, where she honed her passion for empowering others. Her deep commitment to community service was sparked during her volunteer work with the Children's Hospital of Atlanta, where she learned a powerful lesson: true change begins within.
Today, Darnell channels this belief into her leadership at Taylor Made Foundation, where she creates and executes programs that drive positive change and foster growth.
Darnell is also an active board member across several organizations, tirelessly working to make a lasting impact and uplift the communities she serves. Her dedication to creating lasting change is evident in all she does, as she strives to inspire others to not only dream but to act on those dreams.
Greta Heard
Director of Finance
Greta Heard a resident of Covington, Georgia, is a seasoned professional with 32 years of dedicated service at Newton Federal Bank, where she currently holds the position of Senior Vice President/ Branch Sales Manager.
She is extroverted, people-oriented, and enthusiastic about leading her team.
Greta has a bachelor’s degree in business administration, specializing in Human Resources, has enhanced her leadership abilities by enabling her to provide exceptional customer service and effectively manage a high-performing team. In addition, she has obtained her Consumer Lending Certification from the Georgia Bankers Association, allowing her to assist several customers with their loan requirements. Greta is dedicated to empowering our kids to have agency in shaping their promising future.
Greta is also an enthusiastic Partner in Education Representative who wholeheartedly supports students in achieving academic achievement.
Omeika Gibbons-Paton
Secretary
Omeika Gibbons-Paton brings a rich blend of compassion and professionalism to her role as Board Secretary for our organization.
Originally from South America, Omeika has lived in the U.S. for the past 15 years, having relocated from Newark, New Jersey, and now resides in Covington, Georgia.
She holds a background in medical administration and currently works as a Health Insurance Verification Coordinator for Lifestance Health, a mental health facility.
Her deep-rooted dedication to serving others has been shaped by her extensive experience in the medical field, embodying her belief that “a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”In her personal life, Omeika finds joy in spending quality time with her family, traveling, and giving back to her community.
She is a regular volunteer at monthly bingo nights for seniors, where her kindness and generosity shine.
Omeika’s commitment to both her profession and volunteer work makes her an invaluable asset to our board.
Steffan Roberts
Member
Steffan Roberts is on a mission to help serve his community. Steffan is a native of Trinidad & Tobago and has worked in the community of Covington as Vice President of ALANHS for the last two years.
Steffan developed a strong sense of devotion for the nonprofit sector as a youth nearly 25 years ago as he worked closely with the CPA of a church. This experience gave him a deep appreciation for how nonprofits seek to improve the quality of life for our community...one program at a time.
Chanci Shy
Member
Chanci Shy is a proud Newton County native, has dedicated her life to serving her community and empowering others. A graduate of Clayton State University, Chanci first earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and Accounting.
Driven by a passion for making a tangible difference, she later pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Despite facing significant health challenges in her mid-twenties, Chanci’s commitment to service remained steadfast. From an early age, she found her calling in working with youth, particularly teenagers.
Chanci took on leadership roles in her church and various community organizations, where she spearheaded youth programs aimed at providing teens with opportunities and resources often beyond their reach. In her current role as Public Relations Manager at the Washington Street Community Center, Chanci continues to make a meaningful impact through her professional expertise and dedication.
She also serves as the Treasurer on the board of BlackButterfly Charity, a non-profit organization focused on supporting women of color with uterine fibroids. Additionally, as an active member of the Covington Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Incorporated, Chanci contributes to several boards, including those dedicated to membership, educational development, and programming.
Chanci Shy’s career and volunteer efforts reflect her unwavering commitment to her community, her dedication to nurturing young people, and her relentless pursuit of positive change.
Germaine Cato
Member
Germaine Cato is a renowned Master Herpetologist and Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator based in Snellville, Georgia.
Born and raised in Atlanta, he attended the Atlanta Public Schools, where his passion for wildlife and education first began to take root.
As an AmeriCorps Alum, Germaine has dedicated himself to service and community engagement. His commitment to making a difference has been recognized with two prestigious President's Volunteer Service Awards, highlighting his exceptional contributions to society.
In addition to his service work, Germaine's love for sports and mentorship led him to spend four years as an AAU and youth basketball coach, positively influencing the lives of countless young athletes.
In 2021, Germaine founded "8 Legged Scales," a company dedicated to providing education and entertainment through interactive experiences with reptiles, arachnids, and amphibians.
Through his company, Germaine strives to inspire curiosity and appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures while promoting environmental conservation.
With a vision to become the premier reptile edutainer, Germaine is actively working towards establishing enrichment programs in schools, aiming to revolutionize the way students learn about and interact with wildlife.
Driven by his passion for wildlife conservation and education, Germaine Cato continues to make a significant impact, empowering others to connect with nature and become stewards of the environment.
Additionally, our team may include dedicated volunteers, advisors, and community partners who contribute their time, expertise, and resources to support our mission. Together, our team at the Taylor Made Foundation Inc. works tirelessly to bring about positive change, empower individuals, and build a stronger, more vibrant community.
