Otis and Sandra Taylor have helped transform hundreds of volunteers, students, and nonprofit partners into everyday heroes—individuals making a real and lasting difference in South Lake and beyond.
As founder and CEO of the Give A Day Foundation (GADF), Otis has dedicated a big part of his life to building stronger communities through service, mentoring, and collaboration. Originally from Chicago and now a proud South Lake County resident, he is widely recognized for his leadership and unwavering commitment to others. Among his many honors are the South Lake Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador of the Year (2020), the Oakley Seaver Special Service Award, and the Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award. Most recently, he received a donation from the Kiwanis Club of Clermont in recognition of his impactful work.
The Give A Day Foundation (GADF) was born in 2011 as a community-driven nonprofit connecting volunteers to meaningful service opportunities across South Lake County. GADF also partners with local high schools to help students earn the volunteer hours needed for Florida’s Bright Futures Scholarship Program, giving young people the chance to contribute to their communities while preparing for the future.
Give A Day Foundation supports a wide range of causes. Volunteers might find themselves cleaning up local parks, mentoring youth, helping at community events, or lending a hand to seniors and widows. Otis’ inclusive approach welcomes anyone with a willingness to help—because, as he often says, “Everyone has something to give.”
In addition to GADF, Otis leads Champion Circle, a youth empowerment and mentoring initiative for young men ages 14 to 19. The program focuses on identity, career exploration, health, financial literacy, and service, helping young men build the tools they need for a successful future. Champion Circle combines life skills with real-world experiences, guiding participants to grow into confident, capable, and community-minded leaders.
Understanding that nonprofits are stronger together, Otis also founded the South Lake Nonprofit Think Tank—a collaborative forum for local organizations to share ideas, resources, and support. The Think Tank fosters a spirit of unity among community leaders and has become a trusted source of information for residents seeking help. It also serves as a central hub to learn what’s happening in South Lake and how to get involved.
Whether mentoring a young person, coordinating a food drive, or hosting a networking session for nonprofit leaders, Otis Taylor continues to inspire a culture of giving. His organizations are always in need of volunteers, project leaders, donations, and business partners—anyone ready to make a difference.
To learn more or get involved, visit:
www.giveadayfoundation.org
www.gadfchamp.org
www.slthinktank.org
