About GBP
Here at Giving Backpack we see the value in every person. We want to be a catalyst for positive change in the homeless community, and since our beginnings in 2013, we’ve been driven by giving back to those in need. We initially founded our Christian Organization upon: Unity, Joy and Peace! Dealing with the challenges of today requires problem-solvers, who bring different perspectives and are willing to take risks. We took that risk by giving what we had from our hearts and salaries to put it into making bags.
Our Goal is to help those in need with basic toiletries and non perishable items in a convenient backpack, to equip and prepare them with hopes for a better tomorrow. We believe in the JOY of helping people where they are no matter there situation or circumstance.We strive to be so much more then just bags of toiletries.
The Giving Backpack is looking to integrate the ability to provide PEACE, showers, mentors, food pantries, medical support and so much more. We as people have the ability in ourselves to be able to help others. We just want to bring that goodness within us out, as a UNIT of people, lets Help changes lives! Together we can make a difference in the world today.
This is a Non-Profit Organization. ALL of the proceeds help support our mission.
KJV 2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
The Vision
This is our vision for the giving backpack mission in 3 phases
Phase I – Gifting Backpacks
Placing bags in the hands of the less fortunate during a time of transition. Placing a bag in the back seats of everyday Indi duals to hand out to those less fortunate.
Phase II – Portable Showers
Creating a place to spruce up! Having dedicated individuals to go to those in transition to give them an opportunity to feel good about themselves.
Phase III – Tiny Housing Community
Providing shelter to help eliminate homelessness around the world. Creating a safe space with a tiny place to call home until there transition takes them to the next level.
Our World Wide Growing Team!
Mary Esan: Nigeria, Africa
Esan Mary Imoleayo is a builder of businesses (business administrator). She loves helping people and businesses. My undergraduate project topic was on the effect of social entrepreneurship reduction in Kwara State, which sparked a passion in me to help alleviate poverty in the society. Volunteering at the Giving Back Foundation allows me to put theory into practice. By working alongside dedicated individuals, it’s always a fulfilling experience that reinforces my belief in the power of togetherness and its effect on social impact.
Doulgue Clemence Koloaide: Ghana, Africa
Growing up, I always believed in the power of kindness and the impact small actions can have on someone’s life. Joining Giving Back Pack was my way of turning that belief into action.
The mission of Giving Back Pack—providing essentials to those in need—resonated deeply with me. It reminded me of how a simple gesture, like sharing school supplies or a warm meal, can light up someone’s world.
Through volunteering, I’ll have the privilege to meet incredible people and witness firsthand the smiles of children receiving their backpacks filled with hope. It’s not just about the items we distribute—it’s about the message of care and support we carry to communities.
Volunteering with Giving Back Pack is more than a role for me; it’s a way to give back, connect, and inspire. Together, we’re proving that even the smallest contributions can create lasting change.
Keisha J. Jones: USA
Keisha J Jones is a leader who thrives in connection. A pioneer in remote work and community organizing, she brings people together with precision and heart. From grassroots advocacy to managing teams, her 20 years of experience has built bridges, empowered voices, and transformed visions into action, leaving a legacy of growth and innovation wherever she went.
Dawn Geren: Post Falls, Idaho
I’m smart, nice and polite. I love animals and nature. I rescued dogs and like taking care of them. I’m looking for another job, one isn’t enough for me. I like reading, volunteering, donating my stuff and taking care of my puppy in my free time.
Maria Vacal: Cebu City, Philippines
My family and I were among the many who were blessed to survive when Super Typhoon Haiyan devastated the Philippines in 2013. The memories of that tragedy remain vivid—a time when countless people lost their homes, livelihoods, loved ones, and a sense of normalcy. Nobody deserves, under any circumstances, to endure such unimaginable loss, trauma, and years of struggle, pleading for help just to rebuild our lives. It breaks my heart to see families, especially young children and babies, left without homes, without food, and without the basic necessities we often take for granted. This pain has driven me to do all I can to help. I’ve joined The Giving BackPack Foundation, where we work tirelessly to provide assistance to those in need. Through initiatives like creating flyers to raise awareness and spreading the word about the urgent need for aid, I hope to inspire others to join in this mission of compassion and kindness. Nobody plans or deserves to go through what my family and I experienced. But together, with collective efforts and open hearts, we can bring hope, relief, and a chance for a better tomorrow to those who need it most.
Jared Butts: Norfolk, Virginia
I go by Jay, the co-founder and president of The Giving Backpack Foundation. My journey to giving back started years ago when I saw the genuine compassion my mother showed to others. Watching her volunteer and witnessing the joy she brought to people’s faces deeply moved me. That experience sparked something inside me. During my time in school, I began mentoring young men, and once again, I saw that same joy and gratitude on their faces—the same expression I had seen in the people my mother helped. It was in those moments that I realized how powerful giving could be. That’s when my passion for helping others truly began. Life hasn’t always been easy. After going through a marriage, a divorce, and even experiencing homelessness—sleeping in my car, office, anyplace I could lay my head—I learned that adversity doesn’t define us. In fact, it fueled my drive to help others. I understand firsthand how challenging life can be, and sometimes it isn’t money that makes a difference. Often, it’s just the words of someone who believes in you, reminding you that you can bounce back and turn things around. That’s why I encourage anyone who wants to help to do so simply by being themselves. You don’t need to have everything figured out or resources to give; just your belief and support can change someone’s life.
Together, we can make an impact.
Aleta Butts: Vero Beach, Florida
I stand before you today, reflecting on a vision that began many years ago—a vision that was not just a fleeting thought, but one that planted the seed for a journey of service, compassion, and helping those in need. In 1989, I had a vision. It was simple, yet profound. I saw people, people who were struggling, people in need. I saw a kitchen, food being prepared with care, and clothes being given to those who had none. It was a clear message to me: help, give, and serve. Years went by, and life took its course, but that vision stayed with me, growing stronger as I realized that it wasn’t just a fleeting thought; it was a calling. In 2013, my son and I took a step forward. We were sitting in our living room, working together to make bags—simple, everyday items—but in those bags, I saw the beginning of something bigger. It was the start of a commitment to give back, to contribute in whatever way we could, and to help others. Then, in 2021, another pivotal moment came. My son and I came together once again, this time with a shared vision, a renewed sense of purpose. We were able to partner with a local church and provide showers to the homeless community. That simple act of offering cleanliness, dignity, and care to those who had been neglected or forgotten—was more than just a service. It was a chance to show compassion, to let people know they matter, and to help them reclaim their sense of humanity.
This journey—this vision—has not been easy, but it has been worth it. It has been a reminder that no act of kindness is too small, and that when we come together, we can make a real difference in the lives of others. Today, as I reflect on these moments, I realize that the vision I had in 1989 wasn’t just a glimpse of the future. It was the foundation of something much greater than myself. It was a reminder that, no matter how long it takes, every step forward counts. And so, I stand here today, committed to continuing this work, to continuing to help those in need, and to keep that vision alive. Because, as I’ve learned over the years, no matter how many years pass, it’s never too late to make a difference.
Thank you.