Alabama A&M University alumnus Emondre Johnson has built two thriving community-focused ventures in Birmingham – one for families and one for their pets. Earlier this year, Johnson, a 2020 animal science graduate, opened The Bark Park, a pet-care destination offering daycare, grooming, boarding, and professional pet photography. The business reflects his lifelong love for animals and his desire to create a welcoming space where pet owners feel supported and connected.
But long before The Bark Park opened its doors, Johnson had already launched another mission-driven effort in his hometown: Eastern Toys. Founded in 2017 while he was a freshman at AAMU, Eastern Toys has grown into a citywide holiday initiative that provides Christmas gifts to children across Birmingham.
What began as a small effort has now supported more than 500 children since its founding. Each year, Eastern Toys partners with schools, churches, community leaders and donors to identify families in need. While its heart is rooted in East Lake, the organization serves families across the Birmingham area through school referrals and community partnerships…