We recently connected with TORY KEIT and have shared our conversation below.
TORY, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
Starting the Oasis Community Foundation was not just a dream; it was a leap of faith—a calculated risk taken with the hope and determination to make a tangible difference in the lives of the underprivileged and marginalized. I moved to Atlanta in 2006, fueled by a burning desire to create something monumental that would leave a lasting imprint on the world. After years of networking, learning, and laying the groundwork, I took a significant financial plunge by investing a considerable portion of my savings to establish the foundation.
Growing up as the child of a U.S. Army serviceman, I was fortunate to witness the diversity and richness of cultures, religions, and people across the globe. This unique upbringing instilled a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute positively. Inspired by my experiences and driven by a commitment to empower individuals, I embarked on a journey to create the Oasis Community Foundation—a mission-centered organization dedicated to transforming lives through education, financial literacy, and comprehensive family support.
A mix of excitement, anxiety, and self-doubt marked the early days of the foundation. The financial risk was immense, and the weight of the responsibility to the community and our early supporters was ever-present. Yet, with each child empowered, each family supported, and each successful program implemented, the doubts gradually faded, replaced by a growing sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Today, the Oasis Community Foundation is a testament to the power of taking bold risks for the greater good. We are a trusted community partner renowned for our commitment to education, financial literacy, and community support. Our programs promote diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, and our selection of natural wellness products provides a path to holistic well-being for many.
Our efforts have been challenging, but the journey has been enriching. The positive impact we have made on the lives of countless individuals and families is immeasurable. Every dollar donated translates into essential educational tools, financial literacy education, and support for black women in business. We foster positive economic growth, build enduring assets, and advance the common good.
As I reflect on the journey, I am grateful for the support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners. Together, we have created a legacy of positive change and will continue to build a brighter future for all.
Your support is critical to our continued success. Donating to the Oasis Community Foundation is investing in a better tomorrow. Every contribution fuels positive transformation and empowers individuals to reach their full potential. Together, we can make a difference.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My journey began in South Carolina, surrounded by a strong sense of community and an upbringing that was profoundly shaped by my father’s service in the US Army. Living globally, Europe exposed me to diverse cultures and realities, highlighting the glaring disparities many face. It instilled a passion for service and a resolve to address these challenges head-on.
In 2006, I moved to Atlanta, carrying a dream fueled by my experiences and a desire to make a meaningful impact. That dream materialized in 2018 when I founded the Oasis Community Foundation in Marietta, Georgia. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to transform lives through targeted community programs focusing on education, financial literacy, and comprehensive family support.
From providing essential school supplies to underprivileged children to empowering the next generation with financial literacy skills, celebrating the achievements of black women in business, and promoting holistic wellness, the Oasis Community Foundation is dedicated to fostering positive growth and creating a lasting impact.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to our core values: inclusivity, transparency, responsible stewardship, and collaboration. By working together, we can build a better future for everyone. Every dollar donated directly translates into essential tools and support that empower individuals and communities to thrive.
I am incredibly proud of our impact so far, but our work is far from over. The challenges we face are significant, but with the continued support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners, I am confident that we can overcome them and create a brighter, more inclusive future.
To our potential donors and supporters, your contribution is more than just a donation; it is an investment in the future of our community. Together, we can empower individuals to reach their full potential, support the growth and success of black women in business, and foster a sense of well-being and tranquility through holistic wellness.
I appreciate your support and for being a part of our mission to create a better tomorrow.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Building a reputation within the community was an integral part of our journey, and being physically present and actively engaged were crucial elements of that process. Being out there to help and listen gave me a deeper understanding of the community’s immediate needs, enabling us to tailor our programs more effectively.
Active participation in community events, collaborations with local organizations, and a proactive approach to addressing community needs helped establish trust and credibility. The Oasis Community Foundation became recognized as a dedicated and reliable partner committed to addressing the community’s challenges.
Moreover, our commitment to transparency and accountability in all our operations was fundamental to building a solid reputation. We ensured that every dollar donated was used efficiently and effectively to create a positive impact, and we regularly communicated our progress and achievements to our donors and partners.
Our reputation was built on genuine care for the community, active engagement, and a commitment to creating meaningful and lasting impact. By consistently delivering on our promises and being responsive to the community’s needs, we established a solid and positive reputation that we continually strive to uphold.
Contact Info:
- Website: theoasiscommunity.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasiscommunityfoundation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOasisCommunityFoundation/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oasis-community-foundation
Image Credits
Milynne Media