“Thank you for this program. The legacy of your son, Dragon Kim, continues to shine. Thank you for sharing his love of learning with our children.” Emily, Parent
Story Camp would not have happened without The Dragon Kim Fellowship Program. This amazing foundation awards community service grants to help high school students make a difference in their communities. When I submitted a proposal for The Book of You Story Camp, I didn't expect to be selected. While waiting for my turn to pitch my idea, I watched other groups go in with slideshows and musical instruments. All I had was myself and an idea. But I had been volunteering in the Dragon Kim music program at my school for several months, and I felt a strong connection to their vision. When I was selected, I contact 826 National. I thought my literacy program was a good fit for them. They were super kind and generous. But they were running a summer literacy camp of their own, so we agreed to talk again in the fall. I had been a keynote speaker and mentor for the Fullerton School District, so I knew several administrators and teachers. They stepped in and helped me get everything set up—and they didn't even charge us a room rental fee! The Dragon Kim Foundation budgetd $5,000 to run the program. But their contribution goes way beyond funding. They also provided serious leadership and business training, paired me with an amazing mentor, and checked-in and helped me every step of the way. The Foundation selected 20 programs to support this summer. The photo below shows all of us at our first training weekend. I love the joy and energy in this photo. But to see what I love most you have to look in front of the people. See that shadow? The Dragon Kim Foundation is casting a tall shadow into the future. Lives are being changed. I'm honored to be a small part of that, and grateful to everyone at the Foundation for their vision and support. |
Here is the beginning of the Dragon Kim story, taken from the Foundation's website.
"In August 2015, while we were sleeping in a campground in Yosemite, a massive tree branch fell on the tent in which our beloved son, Dragon Kim, and his dear friend, Justin Lee, were sleeping. Both boys died instantly_at the age of 14. Our hearts have been forever broken. We established The Dragon Kim Foundation in our son’s honor to carry on his love of life, to make it possible for other young people to pursue interests in areas in which Dragon himself was passionate, and to help give others the access to a bright future..." VISIT THE DRAGON KIM FOUNDATION If you have a high school student who wants to make a difference, or if you're interested in donating to a cause that is changing lives, please visit now. |
“Dear Dragon Kim Foundation, I can't believe you did all this for Story Camp. You are awesome!”
Emylee, 5th Grade
“Thank you so much! Dragon Kim Foundation, you made this the BEST summer ever. Thank you!”
Jane, 5th Grade
Emylee, 5th Grade
“Thank you so much! Dragon Kim Foundation, you made this the BEST summer ever. Thank you!”
Jane, 5th Grade