Kenzie Rien started a non-profit at the age of eleven years old that grants wishes to military kids of wounded and fallen soldiers. Kenzie whose father was deployed to Afghanistan got the idea for the non-profit when a soldier her father was deployed with, CPT Rob Yllescas, was injured by an IED (Improvised Explosive Device). He later died, leaving behind two little girls. Kenzie knew that she wanted to do something to comfort the girls. So she jumped into action and raised money to send the girls to Disney Land. When she saw the pictures of the girls being happy and able to escape the mourning temporarily, she knew she had a purpose. Brat Pack grants wishes to military kids who have experienced these difficult situations that war can cause. This story is inspirational because it proves that we all can make an impact if we think about each other and are compassionate and empathetic. Kenzie is not even a teenager and is making a huge impact. Also, we often talk about the ultimate sacrifice that Veterans make, but what about the children they leave behind. As members of the veteran community we must constantly be on the lookout for ways we can improve the experiences of the members of the community who are suffering. Kenzie is doing this and we must follow her example. Whether it is as small as setting up a canned food drive for homeless veterans in your community or be a grand gesture such as giving Veterans preferential treatment in the hiring process. Kenzie Rien is filling a void with a much-needed service. Perhaps you see a need that you can fill in your community. Seeing such selflessness in a child should inspire you as an adult to make your effort. I challenge you to think of ways you can help Veterans this week. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture but can be something simple such as donating clothing to a Veteran Organization or volunteering your time at your local VA. Lets show the men and women who were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice that we care about their service.
You can learn more about Kenzie Rien and her non-profit at: http://www.bratpack11.com
Ryan Glover Media 