Devote[D] Foundation Inside Scoop

November 8, 2017

Below is a list of FAQs that I typically receive about Devoted Foundation. I hope that my answers help you to understand the passion behind the creation of the organization along with why the brackets are included in the logo. If you have additional questions after reading answers below, would like to join the cause or donate to Devoted Foundation please email me at info@DesireeDLindsey.com or visit DevotedFoundation.org.

Why did you start Devoted Foundation?

The goal of Devoted Foundation is to devote time and love to individuals who may not have someone in their corner to call on. To create a sense of family or community.

Growing up, I was always confused when I’d see someone on the street who wasn’t just waiting on the bus or walking to their next destination. It was something that I truly didn’t understand, and when I asked my mom why were they out there she told me that they were homeless. That was so weird to me. I was raised in a single parent household, but my dad was in my life and believe me I had my struggles, but I couldn’t understand how someone could allow their family member to go without.

How could someone end up homeless? My mom told me that they may have just lost their job, or had an addiction to drugs, or a number of things could have led to them being homeless I heard her, but it still didn’t add up. That information was something that I literally took personal, especially at such a young age. I was determined from that moment on to make sure that I did my part in coming up with a plan to make sure lives were changed and that individuals who were homeless had the opportunity to turn their lives around. I didn’t want to just offer them food, clothing, and shelter but I wanted to walk them through the process of re-entering society and no longer living life on the streets.

As years progressed I dealt with more trials more tribulations and decided that if I was going to have a non-profit I wanted to offer services for single moms and students who come from low income communities as well. It only made sense to help those who I believe need help as well as those who grew up facing some of the same challenges that I faced growing up. My heart is with the homeless absolutely, but the sky is definitely the limit.

Why did you name your non-profit Devote[D] Foundation? 

I’m not the most creative person around, that’s for sure, lol! Devote[D] Foundation is a name that can carry value with or without being explained. Which was the goal. I’ve written the name this way for three reasons:

1) I couldn’t pick between Devoted or Devote

2) I didn’t want to make it too long

3) The D is personal 

According to google dictionary devote means give all or a large part of one’s time or resources to (a person, activity, or cause) and devoted means very loving or loyal. So, when I put the two together I came up with Devote[D] which means give all of your time backed by love and loyalty. Simple right.

What is the hardest part of having a non-profit Foundation? 

Listen, having a non-profit is HARD!!! Having the vision and the heart for something DOES NOT mean you have the tools to move forward. If you really want it you’ll have to fight for it. It will not be a walk in the park, but what is? Before starting I thought I had solid and committed board members because we’d worked together before. I was wrong!

Just because you’ve worked with someone and it went well doesn’t mean they belong on your board. If everyone isn’t passionate about the cause the way that you are it can go south very fast. Some will commit either because they think it’s a good cause or to support you but will they stick around? Not to mention devote tireless hours required to fight the battles that come with starting and maintaining a non-profit.

Make sure you know where to find help! You can’t do it on your own AT ALL! It’s possible to maintain your organization alone. But moving forward will be hard if you plan to also work, explore business ventures, and have a social life. Overall, get help and be willing to do a ton of research.

Why do you annually host FALL FOR THE HOMELESS?

FALL FOR THE HOMELESS is a time for Devoted Foundation to love on our friends, especially during the holidays. We provide them with delicious snacks and items that will make the fall and winter months a little more bearable. Holidays are a major time of giving and I wanted to make sure that everyone was remembered during this time.

You can learn more about our first Fall for the Homeless experience here. It was amazing!!