Who We Are

 The Eric B. Mays Foundations. was established in July 2025 to honor the legacy of the late councilmember Eric B. Mays. Born out of a deep commitment to serving the community, the foundation is dedicated to providing vital assistance to families facing extraordinary challenges.

Our mission is to support families affected by public health crises, cancer diagnoses, and homelessness. We strive to provide resources and compassion to those in need within our community and beyond.

Headquartered in the state of Florida, the Eric B. Mays Foundations  is committed to serving families nationwide. We believe that everyone deserves access to the support and resources they need to thrive, regardless of their location.

A message from Eric Hakeem Deontaye Mays, the founder. As the founder of the Eric B. Mays Foundations., I aim to carry on my father's legacy of service and advocacy. He loved the state of Michigan, the city of Flint, and the earth, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that everyone had access to clean water and the support they needed to thrive. Through our foundation, we aim to carry on that work and make a positive impact in communities across the country.

The Eric B. Mays Foundations  is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. We will work to provide assistance, support, and resources to families in need, and we will strive to build a stronger, more compassionate community for all. 

Eric Hakeem Deontaye Mays
President  
Carrying forward the extraordinary legacy of his father, the late Councilman Eric B. Mays  a fearless activist, devoted public servant, and champion of the people of Flint, Michigan Eric Hakeem Deontaye Mays leads the Foundation with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to justice and community empowerment.

Nickesha V Reid

 Founder &  Executive Vice President
Nickesha V. Reid is a dynamic executive, entrepreneur, and civic leader who has dedicated over 20 years of her personal and professional life to community empowerment, justice, and the advancement of underserved families across Florida and Michigan. She serves as Vice President and Co-Founder of Eric B. Mays Foundations, a community organization carrying forward the legacy of the late Councilman Eric B. Mays. Through the Foundation, Nickesha leads community events, scholarship programs, housing support initiatives, senior services, and youth development programming that create real, lasting change on the ground. Nickesha is also the owner of Reid & Saunders Enterprises, a legal courier services and process serving company in Jacksonville, Florida, where she ensures equal access to the legal process for all. She is a highly sought after civic leader, community organizer, and executive dedicated to electoral justice, civic engagement, and uplifting underserved communities across Northeast Florida. Her son, Trey Saunders, is a Political Science Pre-Law student at Florida International University, former FIU Student Senator for Housing, Resident Advisor of the Year 2025, and current Vice President of the FIU NAACP Chapter  a testament to the values of service, advocacy, and justice she lives every single day.

Board of Trustees
The dedicated professionals guiding our mission forward.

Dr. Marsha McDonald, ARNP
Director of Health & Community Wellness
Dr. Marsha McDonald is a distinguished Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner and dedicated healthcare professional committed to improving the health and wellness of underserved communities. As Director of Health & Community Wellness for Eric B. Mays Foundations, Inc., she brings her medical expertise and compassionate leadership to advancing the Foundation's mission of community care and equity.

Mrs. Donetta Halton, MEd
Board of Trustees | Director of Education
Mrs. Donetta Halton is an accomplished educator with a Master's degree in Education and a lifelong commitment to academic excellence and community development. As Director of Education for Eric B. Mays Foundations, she leads the Foundation's educational initiatives and ensures that every program reflects the highest standards of learning and leadership.

Ms. Laquetta Carter, JD
Board of Trustees

Ms. Laquetta Carter is a distinguished professional whose legal education and commitment to justice strengthen the Foundation's governance and advocacy work. Holding a Juris Doctor (JD), her legal background and counsel ensure that the Foundation operates with integrity, compliance, and a steadfast dedication to the communities it serves.

Trey Saunders

Community  Director
A rising leader in civic advocacy, Trey Saunders is a Political Science Pre-Law student at Florida International University, former FIU Student Senator for Housing, former Chair of the Student Life Academic Concerns Committee, Resident Advisor of the Year 2025, and current Vice President of the FIU NAACP Chapter. He brings a  community and youth perspective and deep commitment to justice and equity to the Foundation's advisory board.

We are proud to partner with a variety of local organizations to provide the best possible support to our clients. From food banks to healthcare providers, our partners help us extend our reach and impact in the community.