Rooted in love, growing with purpose
Every great mission begins with a story.
OUR STORY
Turning Personal Loss Into Lasting Impact
The SpydaStrong Foundation was born from the life and legacy of Emerson “Spyda the DJ” Gibson—a beloved Barbadian DJ, mentor, and friend whose generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
After migrating from Barbados to the Washington, DC metropolitan area in 1995, Spyda became much more than one of the region’s premier Caribbean DJs. He became a trusted friend, a mentor to many, and someone who was always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether through music, community events, or quiet acts of kindness, he brought people together and made others feel seen, valued, and supported.
The Foundation was established to continue the work Spyda had already been doing throughout his life—serving others. Today, we honor his legacy by providing meaningful support to cancer patients, caregivers, and families through financial assistance, transportation services, educational resources, community outreach, and compassionate programs designed to ease the burden of cancer.
While we cannot change every diagnosis, we believe we can change how people experience the journey.
Every family we support, every caregiver we encourage, and every life we touch is a reflection of the compassion, generosity, and strength that defined Emerson “Spyda the DJ” Gibson.
2017
Founded
30+
Families Assisted
100%
Satisfaction
Our Mission
The SpydaStrong Foundation exists to improve the lives of cancer patients and their caregivers by providing practical support, financial assistance, educational resources, transportation services, and community programs that ease the burden of treatment and recovery.
Inspired by the life of Emerson “Spyda the DJ” Gibson, we are committed to ensuring that no family has to face cancer alone.
Our four core values
Compassion
We lead with empathy, treating every patient, caregiver, and family with dignity, kindness, and respect. We believe that compassion is the foundation of meaningful care.
Service
Inspired by Emerson “Spyda the DJ” Gibson’s unwavering commitment to helping others, we are dedicated to serving our community through practical support, advocacy, and acts of generosity that make a lasting difference.
Hope
Even in life’s most difficult moments, hope has the power to heal, inspire, and strengthen. We strive to provide encouragement, resources, and opportunities that help families face the future with confidence.
Community
No one should face cancer alone. We believe in the strength of community, bringing together volunteers, healthcare partners, donors, caregivers, and families to create a network of support that uplifts and empowers everyone it touches.
Meet the People Behind Spydastrong
Our dedicated team of passionate individuals helps push the dream further.
Mark Holder
Founder & Creative Director
Known affectionately as Spyda’s “Big Bro,” Mark founded the SpydaStrong Foundation to carry forward his brother’s legacy of compassion, community, and service. His vision is simple: ensure that no cancer patient or caregiver has to face the journey alone.
“I am my brother’s keeper.”
PRESIDENT
Jackie Barrow
As Spyda’s mother, she leads the Foundation with the same love, compassion, and strength that shaped Emerson’s life. She oversees outreach initiatives, ensuring families affected by cancer receive support, encouragement, and hope.
DIRECTOR
Kelvin Turner
A longtime friend and trusted confidant of Spyda, Kelvin serves with the same loyalty and compassion that defined their friendship. His commitment helps ensure that Spyda’s legacy continues through service, community outreach, and support for families facing cancer.
DIrector
Diallo Sumbry
Having worked closely with Spyda for many years, Diallo understands the importance of community, service, and lasting relationships. He is dedicated to ensuring that Spyda’s legacy continues to inspire hope and make a meaningful difference.