Story
Kidzz Helping Kidzz is a youth-led non-profit organization committed to bringing hope and joy to children in need while fostering a culture of kindness and mutual support within our communities. The organization was founded by Zach Darner, who, at the age of 7, was driven by a deep passion to help other children. This passion began nine years ago when Zach's infant brother faced serious health challenges and was hospitalized. Inspired by this experience, Zach sought to "give back" by brightening the lives of hospitalized children with new toys placed at their bedsides.
In 2018, Kidzz Helping Kidzz established its Advisory Board, a group composed of 15 youth members ranging from 10 to 17 years old. The Advisory Board leads the organization’s initiatives and has successfully developed and executed multiple charitable programs. Since its inception in 2016, the organization’s annual toy drives have resulted in the donation of over 53,000 toys to children at St. Michael Medical Center, Seattle Children's Hospital, Swedish Medical Center, Mary Bridge Children's Hospital, and St. Anthony Hospital.
In response to the growing issue of food insecurity among youth, the Advisory Board has made this challenge a central focus of its efforts since 2018. The organization’s initiatives include packing food-filled backpacks for low-income students through the Bremerton Backpack Brigade and the Central Kitsap Backpack 4 Kids programs. Additionally, Kidzz Helping Kidzz has organized food drives to support families facing financial hardship in Kitsap County. As one Advisory Board member remarked, “Our work teaches us the importance of giving and sets a strong example for other kids about the value of giving back to our community.”