When the Cepeda family boarded a one‐way flight from Guam to Denver, they carried more than luggage.
They carried the weight of starting over—new jobs, new schools, new routines, and a new life thousands
of miles away from the small island they had always called home. The move was necessary, hopeful, and
incredibly expensive. Nearly ten thousand dollars went into getting their family of six across the ocean,
and once they arrived, the rebuilding began immediately. New cars, new clothes, new bedding, kitchen
appliances; every detail of daily life had to be purchased again. It was overwhelming, but they kept going,
determined to build a future for their children.
Their first summer in Denver brought another challenge: school supply lists. Coming from an island
where school needs were simple, the cost of supplies in Colorado was a shock. Nearly two hundred
dollars per child, not including backpacks, school clothes, or the winter gear they had never needed
before. And that year, they had three children entering school… plus a newborn baby born in mid‐May.
The financial strain was real, and the worry was constant.
But then, something shifted.
A friend who lived in Denver and followed Kenzi’s Causes invited the Cepeda family to a backpack
drive. They didn’t know what to expect. They were new to the city, new to the mainland, and still
adjusting to everything that felt unfamiliar. But that day, standing among volunteers and families,
receiving backpacks filled with supplies, they felt something they hadn’t felt in a long time: relief.
Gratitude. A sense that maybe they weren’t alone in this new place.
That backpack drive was their first introduction to Kenzi’s Causes, and it opened a door they didn’t even
know existed.
Later that year, the same friend brought them to the Christmas present event. Again, they were touched by
the generosity. Having a little extra to put under the tree meant more than anyone could see from the
outside. It wasn’t just about gifts. It was about feeling seen, supported, and cared for during a season that
can be especially hard for families starting over.
As the months went on, the Cepedas learned about the Kenzi’s sports program. With four kids wanting to
play sports, the cost was simply out of reach. They could afford one child at a time, maybe, but the idea of
choosing one and leaving the others out felt heartbreaking. So they followed the Facebook page closely,
hoping for an opening. One day, a video of Jessica sharing her story appeared, followed by a link to apply
for Kenzi’s Kidz.
They applied. They shared their story. And then they waited.

When the acceptance email arrived, the reaction was immediate and emotional.
From that moment forward, their journey with Kenzi’s Causes became something deeply meaningful.
What made them feel comfortable connecting with the organization was simple: they are parents who
work hard to give their children the best life possible, no matter how tired they are or how difficult things
get. Anything that brings joy to their kids is something they will never turn down.
Their first family photoshoot was a moment they’ll never forget. She loves taking pictures of her kids, but
having someone capture all of them together was a gift they had never experienced.
Their second event was a baseball game, their first ever. The excitement began before they even reached
the stadium. Riding the shuttle to the entrance felt like an adventure, and the kids were thrilled long
before the game even started. It was a day full of joy, new experiences, and memories they’ll carry
forever.
And they’re already looking forward to the events ahead.