Our story
Seeking Him Outreach was founded by Tyson Whitaker, whose leadership is rooted in lived experience and a deep understanding of homelessness, recovery, and the importance of consistent human connection.
Tyson first experienced homelessness at the age of sixteen. Those early experiences shaped his understanding of what it means to go without food, stability, and support. After achieving sobriety and rebuilding his life, Tyson committed himself to giving back to the community that had once helped him survive.
Recognizing the powerful bond between people experiencing homelessness and their companion animals, Tyson founded Seeking Him Outreach to serve both — ensuring that no one is forced to choose between feeding themselves or caring for the pets who provide companionship, protection, and emotional stability.
How the work began
The organization grew from a simple act of care. One Thanksgiving, Tyson and his partner prepared extra food and distributed meals to people experiencing homelessness in downtown Santa Ana. The gratitude and connection they encountered that day made clear how much consistent presence and care could matter — especially during moments when people often feel forgotten.
That experience became the foundation for Seeking Him Outreach: showing up regularly, listening, and meeting immediate needs with dignity.
Our approach
Seeking Him Outreach focuses on relationship-centered outreach. Food and basic supplies are not endpoints — they are entry points for building trust.
By returning to the same locations, engaging without judgment, and supporting both people and their pets, Seeking Him Outreach creates reliable points of contact where trust can develop over time. This approach helps reduce isolation and strengthens community connection for individuals who are often disconnected from traditional systems of support.
Our values in practice
Our work is guided by values that shape how we show up in the community every day:
- Compassion Without Judgment
We meet people where they are, recognizing that everyone deserves care and respect. - Dignity and Respect
We serve with intention, ensuring individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. - Community Over Isolation
Outreach is relational. Trust grows through presence, familiarity, and connection. - Second Chances
We believe in recovery, resilience, and the possibility of a fresh start. - Service Through Care
Our motivation is grounded in service — showing up consistently and reliably for those in need.
Get involved
Seeking Him Outreach is sustained by community support. There are many ways to be part of this work:
- Volunteer your time through meal preparation or outreach
- Donate food, pet supplies, or financial resources
- Become a recurring supporter to help sustain consistent outreach
- Share our mission and help raise awareness
- Partner with us to strengthen community-based support
If you’re interested in getting involved, please visit our Contact page to learn more.
With support from the Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, Seeking Him Outreach
is one of three nonprofit organizations that form the Community Food Support Coalition, OC.
Three Nonprofits, One Mission