WELCOME
WHO WE ARE
We are a group of men and women who grew up in Canton, Ohio and went on to achieve successful careers in sports and business. Having reached personal and professional success, we are now positioned to give back to the people and community that provided the foundation for that success. Growing up, so many in Canton supported us as we gained the skills and honed the talents that propelled us to achievement. As we moved forward, the city was held back in many ways, much of which is due to shifts in labor and economic opportunity. The COVID-19 outbreak coupled with Northeast Ohio’s persistent economic challenges have elevated the need for support and assistance in this community.
About
OUR VISIONFacilitate the development of healthy futures for the underserved and disadvantaged of Canton, Ohio.OUR MISSIONTo aid underserved and disadvantaged families in Canton, Ohio through the development and
enhancement of innovative partnerships and initiatives that elevate the resources of the
community and improve the outcomes of its residents.OUR STANDARDS OF CONDUCTIntegrity – We maintain the highest standards of professional and ethical behavior, and value
transparency and honesty in our communications, relationships, and actions.
Accountability – We hold ourselves accountable for the quality and lasting results of our
efforts and for the commitments we make to our participants, partners, donors, and each other.
Respect – We value and celebrate the unique and diverse talents, experiences, and
perspectives of all people, and engage with our participants, partners, donors, and each other
using empathy and respect.
Innovation – We encourage creativity and go beyond conventional ideas and approaches so
new possibilities can emerge and flourish to ensure sustainable, tangible change.
OUR FOCUS AREAS
Basic needs
- Health and wellness
- Food insecurity
- Housing insecurity
Education
- Tech literacy
- Guidance and navigation
Employment
- Job training
- Mentorship
Financial wellness
- Literacy and management
- Skills for entrepreneurship
Executive Committee
Ray Ellis - Chief Visionary
Ray was born and raised in Canton and is a proud graduate of McKinley High School. Ray studied Communication at The Ohio State University; he was also a 4-year letterman for the Buckeyes football team as well as Co-Captain and All-Big Ten Defensive back his senior year. In the 1981 NFL draft was chosen in the 12th and final round by the Philadelphia Eagles. After playing the first 5 years of his professional career for the Eagles, Ray was released by the Eagles and chose to sign with the Cleveland Browns. Ray played the final 2 years of his career for the Browns suffering a serious neck injury in the 2nd season. Ray signed with the Colts but was released and then retired from Pro Football after discovering he had suffered a career ending neck injury.Ray started the preparation for his post football career as soon as his first NFL season. Entrepreneurship and supporting disadvantaged communities were at the top of the list of option. Ray’s first experience in business was a printing company he and two others acquired allowing them to solicit offset printing opportunities. Ray also spent time in the off season supporting the UNCF. Over the years Ray expanded his entrepreneurial experience across various business interest to include real estate, microbreweries, Information Technology, digital media and currently Esports events and tournaments.
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Our brother Warren "Speedy" Pyles - who was integral to CooC's launch - transitioned unexpectedly in 2021. In honor of his dedication and commitment to our mission, our signature program bears his name.The Warren "Speedy" Pyles food giveaway is a labor of love between CooC and many community organizations.After his school days at McKinley, while attending Ohio State University, Pyles was among the first African Americans to serve as a page in the Ohio General Assembly. He became a businessman, family man, Shiloh Baptist Church deacon and lifelong leader of the Zeta Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.Canton Outside of Canton will hand out turkeys, hams, perishable and non-perishable items, and gift cards during the giveaway. The Greater Stark County Urban League, city of Canton, Stark County Moving Forward, Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, Absolute Health Services, Aultman Health Foundation and the Hall of Fame Village are helping with event.
Contact
For more information about donations, please email info@canton-ooc.orgFor information about volunteering for the Warren Speedy Pyles Food Giveaway, please click HERE or email volunteer@canton-ooc.orgFor more information about Canton Outside of Canton, please email info@canton-ooc.org
1234 Somewhere Road
Canton, OH 44707000-000-0000
info@canton-ooc.org