Our Story

Hunger will return, hair will grow, clothes will fade, but acts of love and encouragement create everlasting growth.

Make-A-Day (MAD) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rooted in the belief that everyone deserves dignity, connection, and opportunities to thrive. Founded in 2018 by cousins Kyle and Alex, MAD began with a simple yet profound day spent alongside two unhoused individuals, sharing a meal, shopping for clothes, and building genuine connection. Inspired by this experience, and by the legacy of their grandfather Ralph Emrich, who dedicated his life to community through food distribution, prison ministry, and refugee support, MAD hosted its first pop-up event at 5th and High St. Cousin Rebekah joined to offer free haircuts, adding warmth and personal care to the gathering.

Today, Make-A-Day honors Ralph’s spirit by creating spaces that spark community, joy, and mutual support for neighbors navigating hardship. Our work is about walking alongside people as they reclaim their sense of self and build on their own strengths. Through vibrant pop-up care villages, weekly street outreach, and housing resource clinics, we connect guests with practical services, trusted relationships, and pathways to long-term stability. Our work centers on partnership, meeting people where they are, and celebrating every step toward greater wellbeing and opportunity.

Our mission is to empower the impoverished through inclusive community events, acts of kindness, outreach, advocacy, and educational awareness. Guided by our core values of being human-centered, reliable, action-oriented, creative, relationship-focused, and committed to empowerment, we work to foster a supportive and uplifting environment for all, helping individuals break the cycle of poverty and homelessness while offering opportunities for personal growth and long-term success.