The PAKA PIK UP Foundation:
Through its programs and events, the PAKA PIK UP Foundation hopes to make a lasting impact on youth by addressing both their academic and emotional needs, encouraging them to strive for excellence and contribute positively to their communities.
About PAKA PIK UP FOUNDATION
Our Mission
The PAKA PIK UP Foundation is committed to honoring the legacy of Samuel Calvin by promoting literacy, community development, and personal growth in underserved communities. Inspired by his unwavering dedication to education, mentorship, and service, our foundation seeks to empower youth through initiatives like the annual "Every Mikkle Mek A Mukkle" event. We provide essential resources such as school supplies, mentorship, and scholarships while instilling the values of education, cultural heritage, and excellence. Our mission is to continuously expand our programs, introducing new elements and events that foster skills-building in areas such as sports, the arts, and academic support. By engaging youth in meaningful, productive activities, we aim to keep them connected to their community and help them realize their full potential. Through these efforts, we strive to continue Samuel Calvin’s work in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow and strengthening the fabric of our community.
Our Goals
The PAKA PIK UP Foundation is driven by a commitment to empower youth and strengthen communities through education, mentorship, and the promotion of cultural heritage. In alignment with our mission and vision, the objective of the organization is to provide underserved communities with the resources, support, and opportunities needed to thrive.
Our objectives are to:
- Support Educational Achievement: By providing school supplies, scholarships, and mentorship, we ensure that youth have the necessary resources to pursue academic excellence and realize their full potential.
- Promote Holistic Development: We focus on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of youth, offering workshops on resilience, stress management, and personal growth to foster balanced, well-rounded individuals.
- Strengthen Community Connections: By engaging local leaders, mentors, and organizations, we create a collaborative environment that supports youth, celebrates culture, and builds a sense of belonging and pride.
- Inspire Leadership and Service: In honoring the legacy of Samuel Calvin, we encourage young people to not only pursue academic success but to also contribute to their communities, becoming the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Ultimately, the PAKA PIK UP Foundation seeks to create sustainable, positive change by equipping youth with the tools they need to succeed, instilling values of integrity, excellence, and service, and continuously expanding programs that foster lifelong growth. By doing so, we aspire to honor Samuel Calvin’s legacy and contribute to the development of strong, thriving communities.
Our History
The PAKA PIK UP Foundation was established in 2021 to honor the legacy, teachings, and memory of Samuel Calvin, a beloved community leader who dedicated his life to service, mentorship, and the advancement of youth in underserved communities. Founded by Samuel’s three children—Duran Calvin, Toshami Calvin, and Samoya Calvin—the organization continues Samuel's work, providing support, guidance, and empowerment to young people in their community.
Samuel Calvin's life was a reflection of his values: integrity, service, and the belief that education was the key to unlocking opportunities for personal growth and community development. As a father, mentor, and active member of the Bath community, Samuel devoted himself to uplifting others. He served as a member of the Bath Sports Club, coached the local football team, and was a consistent source of support for youth. His commitment to community service was grounded in the principle that every small act of kindness can create lasting change and that it is crucial to “never forget where you come from.”
After Samuel’s passing in 2010, his children—who were still young at the time—were raised by their mother and the larger Bath community. Though each child held unique memories of their father, they shared a deep desire to carry on his legacy. With this shared vision, they founded the PAKA PIK UP Foundation, naming it as a tribute to their father’s commitment to giving back. The foundation’s name reflects their collective determination to “pick up where he left off,” continuing his work as pillars in the community.
Today, the children of Samuel Calvin—Duran, Toshami, and Samoya—have each followed their own paths of personal achievement, and through the foundation, they aim to share their success and resources with the next generation.
- Duran Calvin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology and currently works as a Senior Information Technology Production Support for a leading investment bank. Duran is passionate about technology and is committed to using his expertise to drive innovation and support youth education through the Foundation. He is married to Tamare Calvin, a scientist in the medical device industry, and together, they share a dedication to advancing both technology and health sciences within their community.
- Toshami Calvin served as Miss Universe Jamaica 2022 and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science from the University of Central Florida. Toshami is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis while working as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and Behavior Analyst Intern. She is dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental and behavioral challenges, making a difference in the lives of those she serves. Her passion for mental health and development aligns with the Foundation’s goal of nurturing the holistic well-being of youth.
- Samoya Calvin, a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sport and Exercise Science from The Florida State University. Currently serving in the United States Peace Corps in Ghana, Samoya continues her lifelong commitment to community development and youth empowerment. Her work in Ghana allows her to support international communities in similar ways to her father’s community work, bridging the gap between global and local development initiatives.
Together, as a family, they are dedicated to preserving their father’s legacy by providing essential educational resources, mentorship, and community support to underserved youth. The PAKA PIK UP Foundation aims to foster an environment where young people are equipped to thrive—both academically and personally—just as Samuel Calvin once nurtured and empowered countless youth in his community.
The PAKA PIK UP Foundation continues to build upon Samuel Calvin’s mantra: “Never forget where you come from.” It is this guiding principle that drives the organization’s mission to empower youth, celebrate cultural heritage, and ensure that the spirit of community service remains alive for generations to come.