Meet Evalye Alexander | CEO & Founder / Philanthropist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Evalye Alexander and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Evalye, how has your background shaped the person you are today?

I’m a true Atlantan, born and raised in the vibrant heart of Georgia. My upbringing was a crash course in kindness and empathy. Even as a young kid of 6 or 7, I vividly remember eagerly handing spare coins to the homeless, a small gesture that felt huge at the time. I’d pester my mom endlessly, hoping we could join those families supporting kids in Africa with just pocket change.

Growing older, my mom opened doors for my sister and me to volunteer at community events. Those moments were magic—each Christmas, we’d dive into this beautiful tradition, spreading joy to kids stuck in the hospital during the holidays. But the game-changer arrived in my early 20s when I volunteered with Hosea Feed the Hungry during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Picture this: the Georgia Dome, alive with hope, bustling with resources for the homeless. I was right there, jotting down names and having heartfelt conversations with those in need. The attention to detail in setting up every station, from dental care to warm clothing and showers, was incredibly touching—it breathed hope into the air!

Life, however, had its own plans. Bills, marriage, kids, jobs—the whole whirlwind. Yet, that dream of making a difference never faded. Amidst it all, I grappled with a different battle—my mental health. Depression knocked hard, dragging me into darkness, leading to two painful suicide attempts. It was after the second one, in my 30s, that a light flickered.
I embarked on a soul-searching journey, realizing my path didn’t align with who I truly was. After heartfelt prayers and candid talks with God, a calling emerged—a calling to be a voice for the voiceless. Those stuck in life’s shadows, forgotten by many, became my focus. I wanted to be there for those struggling with homelessness, financial hardship, and the indifference of society.

In 2019, the Community Outreach and Advocacy Corporation was born. More than a nonprofit, it’s a piece of my heart—a platform I envisioned for the overlooked. A safe haven where challenges are met with genuine compassion. Today, I’m on a mission fueled by the belief that everyone, no matter their struggles, deserves a fair chance at a better life.
I’m immensely proud of what our organization has achieved. We’ve extended help to over 2,000 individuals, finding creative solutions to food insecurity, unemployment, and basic needs challenges. And we’re just getting started!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Our work at Community Outreach and Advocacy Corporation isn’t just about providing aid; it’s about restoring dignity and empowering those who’ve been overlooked. What sets us apart is our holistic approach—we’re not just addressing immediate needs but striving to break cycles of hardship through comprehensive support.

I’m immensely proud of the team and the community’s resilience and compassion. The strides we’ve made in tackling issues like food insecurity, unemployment, and the lack of basic necessities fill me with hope. What excites me most is the transformative impact we’re creating in people’s lives, witnessing their resilience as they overcome challenges.
Getting here professionally wasn’t a smooth ride. There were moments of doubt, financial hurdles, and the ever-present balancing act between family and work. But every challenge was a lesson waiting to be learned. Persistence became my ally, and the setbacks became stepping stones. It was about finding strength in adversity and not letting obstacles define our journey.

The lessons along the way were numerous. I learned the power of collaboration, the importance of staying adaptable, and the necessity of self-care amidst the chaos. The biggest lesson, perhaps, was that true success isn’t just personal; it’s measured by the positive impact we have on others’ lives.

Our story is about hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every person, regardless of their circumstances, deserves a chance. It’s about amplifying voices that often go unheard and standing up for those that society often sidelines. I want the world to know that our brand isn’t just an organization—it’s a movement fueled by compassion and the unwavering belief in the inherent worth of every individual. We’re here to create a ripple effect of kindness and empowerment that extends far beyond our immediate community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is a gem; showing a friend around for a week would be a blast. Here’s my ultimate itinerary for an unforgettable week:

Day 1 – Immersive City Exploration
Morning: Start at the Atlanta BeltLine for a morning stroll, coffee in hand. It’s a great way to soak in the city’s vibe.
Lunch: Head to Ponce City Market for diverse dining options. The Central Food Hall has something for every palate.
Afternoon: Explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and take in the rich history.
Dinner: Treat them to upscale Southern cuisine at Bacchanalia.

Day 2 – Cultural Dives
Morning: Visit the High Museum of Art for an artistic immersion.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Krog Street Market, offering a variety of food stalls.
Afternoon: Explore the Atlanta History Center for a deep dive into the city’s past.
Evening: Catch a performance at the Fox Theatre, an iconic venue with stunning architecture.

Day 3 – Nature Escape
Morning: Hike the trails at Stone Mountain Park for breathtaking views.
Lunch: Enjoy a picnic at Piedmont Park, soaking in the urban greenery.
Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden for a serene stroll.
Dinner: Head to Mary Mac’s Tea Room for some classic Southern comfort food.

Day 4 – Foodie Adventure
Morning: Start with breakfast at West Egg Café for delicious Southern-style breakfast.
Lunch: Sample diverse cuisine at Buford Highway’s international eateries.
Afternoon: Take a food tour at Sweet Auburn Curb Market for local flavors.
Dinner: Enjoy fine dining at The Optimist, known for its seafood.

Day 5 – Entertainment Galore
Morning: Visit the Georgia Aquarium for a mesmerizing underwater experience.
Lunch: Try local favorites at The Varsity for a classic Atlanta meal.
Afternoon: Explore the World of Coca-Cola for a unique glimpse into the iconic brand.
Evening: Catch a Braves game at Truist Park for an authentic Atlanta sports experience.

Day 6 – Neighborhood Gems
Morning: Start with breakfast at Thumbs Up Diner for a hearty meal.
Explore: Spend the day exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, and East Atlanta Village.
Lunch: Choose from eclectic eateries in these neighborhoods for a unique dining experience.
Evening: Enjoy live music at Eddie’s Attic in Decatur.

Day 7 – Wrap-Up and Farewell
Morning: Relax at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area for a peaceful morning.
Brunch: Indulge in a leisurely brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen.
Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Zoo for some animal encounters.
Evening: Wind down at the rooftop bars in Midtown or Buckhead for stunning skyline views.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My pillars of strength and inspiration are as follows:

To my husband, the rock who’s stood by me through thick and thin, offering unwavering support and encouragement.

To my mom and dad, the original architects of my compassion, who instilled in me the values of giving back from the very beginning.

To my precious kiddos, who remind me every day of the world we’re working to build—a world of kindness and opportunity for all.

To my dynamic team—Tiffany Derricotte and Tiffany Oakley—whose dedication and hard work drive the vision of our organization forward.

To my invaluable program partner, Mia Hann, whose collaboration has enriched our impact in the community.

To our community partners, whose collaboration and shared vision have amplified our efforts.

To our dedicated volunteers, the unsung heroes whose time and commitment make our mission a reality.

And to everyone who has believed in the Community Outreach and Advocacy Corporation, your faith in our vision fuels our determination to create positive change. Each of you has played an invaluable role in our story, and your support is deeply cherished.

Website: contactus@coacservices.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coac_ga/

Other: Other Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evalye.alexander/