A Hand Up Founders
Gene Call
Gene was a faithful man of God who had a passion for sharing the gospel and leading others to Christ. Gene transitioned in April 2026 and is now with Jesus. During his time here, Gene worked in the areas of ministry, real estate, and construction. He communicated the Gospel of Jesus in a way that people understood that God, our Creator, wants us to live in harmony with God and each other.
To do this required a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. That relationship changed lives. He wanted people to know that the Christian life, no matter what challenges we face, results in the most satisfying life possible on earth and the only desirable opportunity for eternity.
Melanie Paul
Melanie owns a bookkeeping firm that provides funding for an outreach program to assist the homeless. Her goal is to assist others by giving them a hand up in life. She has done this over the past 17 years through assisting individuals and families in her home, through different non-profit organizations she works with, and through her business.
Deb Call
Deb has a heart for rescuing cats!
She has been working with feral cat communities in the Wendell area and has provided a safe space full of love for cats who would have otherwise been abandoned.
A Hand Up Staff
Antwoni Davis
Antwoni Davis knows firsthand what it feels like to struggle, to feel hopeless, and to wonder if life can ever change. Having overcome homelessness, addiction, and some of life’s darkest seasons, Antwoni now uses his testimony to bring hope, encouragement, and practical support to others facing difficult circumstances.
Born and raised in the Catskill Mountains of New York, Antwoni has called Raleigh, North Carolina, home for more than 20 years. Through faith, recovery, perseverance, and the grace of God, he transformed his life and discovered a calling rooted in service, compassion, and outreach.
Today, Antwoni serves as an Outreach Specialist with A Hand Up, where he works directly with individuals experiencing homelessness and hardship. He is also pursuing a degree in Business Administration at Wake Technical Community College while balancing multiple professional roles, including accounting, business ownership through Raleigh Cleaning Service, and employment at North Ridge Country Club. His journey reflects determination, resilience, and a commitment to building a better future for himself and those around him.
As a proud father and man of faith, Antwoni believes that no one is beyond redemption and that every person deserves dignity, compassion, and a second chance. His life is a testimony that healing and restoration are possible. Whether serving meals, helping connect people with resources, sharing encouragement, or simply listening without judgment, Antwoni’s heart is to meet people where they are and remind them they are not forgotten.
When he is not working, studying, or serving in the community, Antwoni enjoys spending time with family and friends, bowling, and speaking life into others through sharing his testimony. His mission is simple: to serve God, love people, and help others discover hope beyond their circumstances.