Who We Are

In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic spread rapidly across the United States, schools closed their doors and millions of children were suddenly learning from home. Our own three-year-old, like so many others, lost the opportunity to attend preschool.

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That spring, we spent our days exploring forests, playing outdoors, and searching for meaningful ways to help children continue learning and growing despite the uncertainty. As it became clear that classrooms would not reopen anytime soon, we hoped to create joyful experiences so that childhood would not be defined by isolation.

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In July 2020, together with a group of dedicated volunteers, we founded Kai & Friends Foundation. We invited teachers and community members to lead hands-on activities, including art, crafts, poetry, writing, science experiments, cooking, and creative exploration.

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Over the following years, we witnessed how these shared experiences brought children, families, and communities together. They also inspired us to ask a bigger question:

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How can we create more opportunities for children to step away from screens, for adults to serve their communities, and for families to experience diverse cultures together?

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Today, Kai & Friends Foundation continues to build meaningful connections through creativity, community engagement, cultural exchange, and real-world experiences—helping children grow with curiosity, compassion, and confidence.