Made for Teachers
A Legacy of Love and Learning
My name is Yolanda Thomas, and I was raised in Ocala, Florida. As the oldest granddaughter of Mary F. Tindal, I spent much of my childhood by her side especially during my early school years at Madison Street School of Basic Plus, when I had the joy of riding with her to work in the mornings.
My grandmother was more than a teacher, she was a quiet force of love, grace, and wisdom in our community. She served Marion and Levy County schools for 34 years and became the first Black woman in the Marion County to receive the prestigious Golden Apple Award. A proud graduate of Bethune-Cookman University, she poured herself into her students' lives both inside and outside the classroom tutoring after hours, offering guidance, and cheering on every small victory.
At home, she was the heart of our family. Her biscuits and peach cobbler are still unmatched, and her presence made every room warmer. In fact, 20 years ago, my husband and I got married in her front yard, a moment I’ll cherish forever.
Her belief in me never wavered. She encouraged me to pursue higher education while working full-time in higher ed myself. With her support, I earned two degrees, started a family, and built a career helping others.
In 2017, I had my first child and told my grandmother we would one day move back home so she could be close to her great-grandchild. Sadly, we lost her in 2019. But in 2022, my husband, our three-year-old son, and I made the move back to Ocala, just like I’d promised.
When I returned, I felt a deep sadness from her absence. But I also felt something greater: a calling. I realized I could carry on the legacy she left behind-one rooted in kindness, encouragement, education, and community. That’s when Made for Teachers was born.
As a new mom and someone who has worked in education for over 20 years, I know firsthand how much teachers pour into others and how rarely they are poured into themselves. This mission gives me the opportunity to give back, reconnect with my community, and honor the woman who helped shape who I am.
Thank you for reading my story. It means the world to me.
Yolanda Thomas, Founder of Made for Teachers
💫 Our Values
At Made for Teachers, we believe that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. These core values guide everything we do from delivering supplies to hosting appreciation events, and remind us why teachers deserve to feel seen, valued, and supported.
💛 Gratitude
We believe that a sincere "thank you" can make all the difference. We express appreciation loudly, often, and with heart.
👥 Community
We build strong connections between schools, businesses, families, and supporters to remind teachers they’re never alone.
🎓 Respect for Educators
We honor the hard work, sacrifice, and passion that teachers bring to their classrooms every day. Their calling deserves to be celebrated.
🛠️ Service
We show up. Whether it’s dropping off supplies or simply listening, we are committed to being of service to those who serve others.
🌱 Upliftment
We create meaningful moments that raise morale and renew purpose because empowered teachers create empowered students.
🕊️ Legacy
We are rooted in the belief that one person can inspire many. We carry forward the love and legacy of Mary F. Tindal by supporting those who shape the future.
Made for Teachers Inc. is an organization that values diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential to our mission.
Development. Retention. Success
The Development, Retention, and Success of teachers are crucial aspects to ensure a quality education.
Our support framework centers on:
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Development – Providing tools and opportunities to grow
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Retention – Creating experiences that boost morale and connection
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Success – Celebrating the wins, big and small, in every classroom
