About Us

Seventeen years ago, when our Ryan Kotara was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, our lives were forever changed. Faced with the reality of managing a life-altering condition, we felt the immediate drive to do something beyond our family, to turn our challenge into positive action. So, we began raising funds and rallying support for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), hoping to contribute to advancements in research and to support other families facing similar struggles.

Over the years, this mission has grown. What started as a focus on raising funds and awareness for Type 1 Diabetes grew into a larger vision. We saw a greater need within our community: families facing difficulties of all kinds, from food insecurities to educational barriers. Our foundation expanded its mission to support families facing hardship and to invest in young students’ futures.

Our foundation stands as a tribute to resilience and hope, and we are grateful for the opportunity to give back and make a difference in the lives of those around us. Together, we aim to build is stronger community, one where hope and support reach every family no matter how large or small their need may be.