06/15/2026
Once upon a time... the pandemic of 2020.
This is how it all started.
The first photo is very special to me. It was my very first donation request sign, asking for culturally appropriate foods to serve the Latino community in Richmond, Virginia. At the time, I had no idea where that simple request would lead us.
Back then, our community and I were not connected to influential people. We were not backed by major donors. We were simply ordinary people who wanted to help. There was no 501(c)(3), no formal organization—just people choosing kindness, compassion, and the love of God.
In these photos, you'll see families not only here in the United States, but also in other countries and rural communities receiving food during one of the most difficult times in recent history. Together, we responded to a need and learned as we went.
Three months later, we officially became Waymakers Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3).
From building a board and applying for grants to finding the right partners, collaborators, mentors, and donors, we learned together how to build an organization rooted in service. It wasn't always easy. It took time, patience, faith, and a willingness to grow. But we did it.
Looking back now, six years later, I am filled with gratitude. Since day one, we have delivered food, pilot cultural programs, touched lives, and served communities with dignity and respect. We understood that cultural appreciation matters because not everyone eats the same foods, and serving people well means honoring who they are.
What started as a simple request for culturally appropriate food became a movement of neighbors helping neighbors.
As we get closer to celebrating the closing chapter of this journey, I look back and simply say: What wonderful years of service.
I don't focus on what is ending. I focus on the lives touched, the friendships built, the lessons learned, the hope shared, and the incredible people who walked alongside us every step of the way.
To every volunteer, donor, board member, mentor, partner, collaborator, and family we served—thank you. You are part of this story. You helped turn an idea into a mission and a mission into impact.
As we prepare for our final chapter, we invite you to continue following our journey until the very end. Join us as we celebrate six years of service, memories, and community impact leading up to July 24, 2026.
With love and gratitude,
Natasha & the Waymakers Foundation Family ❤️
