We recently connected with Tameka Simmons and have shared our conversation below.

Tameka, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

One of the kindest things anyone has ever done for me was when Ms. Leda Young reached out to invite me to speak about my experience as a caregiver and advocate for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. She asked me to share my story with the Greenville Civitan Club, which opened a door I never expected. That speech led to me being nominated for and receiving the International Servant’s Heart Award. During the awards banquet, I shared my vision for Through Evely’s Eyes, and that moment was the catalyst for receiving seed money to officially establish it as a 501(c)(3). Ms. Young saw something in me, gave me the opportunity to share my story, and ultimately helped bring my vision to life. That single act of kindness changed everything and I’m forever grateful.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Tameka, and I’m the founder of *Through Evely’s Eyes*, a nonprofit organization inspired by my daughter Evely, who lives with rare physical and intellectual disabilities. My journey into advocacy and nonprofit work began from a deeply personal place—navigating the world of rare diseases, medical complexities, and disabilities as a mother and caregiver. Being a full-time caregiver, advocate, and homeschooling teacher to my children, I saw firsthand the gaps in resources and support for families like ours. That’s what led me to create a space where those who often feel overlooked can find connection, community, and resources.

Through Evely’s Eyes focuses on supporting families of children with rare diseases and disabilities by offering education, resources, advocacy, and community-building opportunities. We aim to raise awareness around the needs of medically complex children, while also encouraging the importance of caregiver well-being. We host events like our *ImmUnity Play Circle* that create safe, inclusive spaces for children with disabilities, especially those who are immunocompromised. We also offer educational opportunities and volunteerism, empowering families to advocate for themselves and others in their communities.

What sets us apart is that we understand the emotional, physical, and mental toll this journey can take on caregivers. We’re not just addressing medical needs—we’re deeply invested in fostering holistic well-being, creating community, and providing emotional support. I believe in the power of personal stories to create change, and that’s why I make sure that our work centers around real-life experiences, including my own, to inspire and bring visibility to issues that affect families like ours.

One of the things I’m most proud of is how *Through Evely’s Eyes* has grown from a vision into a tangible organization making real impact. For example, being exhibitors at the first Disability Resource Expo in the Upstate and gaining new subscribers to our community was a major milestone. We started with just an idea, and now we’re reaching more families, caregivers, and advocates than I ever imagined possible.

What I want potential clients and supporters to know is that we are a community-driven organization that truly understands what it’s like to navigate life with a medically complex child. We see you. We hear you. And we are here to support you on this journey. I am most passionate about building a future where our children are seen, heard, and included in every aspect of society, and where caregivers feel supported and empowered. That’s the heartbeat of Through Evely’s Eyes—creating a world that is more inclusive, understanding, and compassionate.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My journey has been one of resilience, especially as a single mother who homeschools three kids while also serving families that face the same challenges mine does. On top of being a caregiver, I’ve had to navigate the nonprofit world, which has been full of late nights and early mornings. Whether it’s learning how to write grants or create budgets for our programs, I’ve had to push through exhaustion and self-doubt to make sure I’m doing the best for my family and the families I serve. It’s been tough, but it’s all worth it when I see the impact Through Evely’s Eyes has on the community.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I built my audience on social media by being open, transparent, and informative about our journey as a family navigating life with a medically complex child. I’ve always made it a point to share both the highs and the lows—the milestones and the struggles—because I believe that authenticity resonates with people. Our story is unique, but so many parents, caregivers, and advocates can relate to aspects of our experience, and that connection has been key to building our community.

For anyone just starting to build a social media presence, my advice is to stay true to your story and your message. Be consistent in showing up, even when things aren’t perfect, and create content that adds value for your audience—whether that’s education, inspiration, or simply offering a place where others feel seen and understood. Engage with your followers authentically, build relationships, and trust that your community will grow as you continue to share your unique voice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.throughevelyseyes.org
• Instagram: @thediazgirls @throughevelyseyes
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThroughEvelysEyes

Image Credits

Omni Productions