About Star Kids
For over 15 years, we've been dedicated to one mission: ensuring every child in America has the opportunity to thrive.
Our Story
Born from a
Simple Question
In 2009, a small group of parents and educators in a struggling community asked themselves: “What if every child had the support they needed to succeed?”
What started as weekend tutoring sessions in a church basement grew into something extraordinary. Families kept coming. Volunteers kept showing up. The need was so clear and the impact so immediate that we knew this had to be more than a weekend project.
Star Kids was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and we never looked back. Today, we operate six major programs across 200+ communities, reaching over 50,000 children every year. But our approach hasn't changed: we show up, we listen, and we help children shine.
Serving with Heart
Since 2009
At a Glance
Our Impact in Numbers
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To provide comprehensive, compassionate support to children across America through education, healthcare, nutrition, mentorship, and emergency aid — empowering every child to reach their fullest potential.
Our Vision
An America where every child — regardless of zip code, background, or circumstance — has access to the resources, opportunities, and encouragement they need to thrive.
What Guides Us
Our Core Values
Compassion First
Every decision we make begins with empathy. We see the child, not the circumstance, and respond with genuine care.
Unwavering Integrity
We are transparent stewards of every dollar and every promise. Our community trusts us because we earn it daily.
Bold Innovation
The problems we tackle are complex. We embrace creative solutions, measure what matters, and adapt quickly.
Inclusive Community
We serve all children regardless of background. Diversity is our strength, equity is our commitment.
Our Journey
Key Milestones
Founded
Star Kids was established by a group of parents and educators who saw a gap in support for underserved children.
First Major Expansion
Grew from 3 communities to 25, launching the Star Scholars tutoring program.
National Recognition
Received Charity Navigator 4-star rating. Launched Star Wellness and Star Plates programs.
100 Communities
Reached the milestone of serving 100 communities. Introduced the Star Guides mentorship program.
Pandemic Response
Mobilized Star Response to deliver emergency aid, virtual tutoring, and meal kits to 30,000 families.
Stronger Than Ever
Now serving 50,000+ children across 200+ communities with six comprehensive programs.
The Team
Our Leadership
Sarah Mitchell
Executive Director
20+ years in nonprofit leadership. Former director at United Way. Passionate about systemic change for children.
David Okafor
Director of Programs
Education policy expert and former school principal. Designs and oversees all Star Kids programming.
Dr. Lisa Chen
Director of Health Initiatives
Pediatrician turned public health advocate. Leads our wellness and nutrition programs nationwide.
Marcus Rivera
Director of Community Engagement
Community organizer with deep roots in grassroots mobilization. Builds the bridges that connect families to resources.
Jennifer Blackwood
Chief Financial Officer
CPA with 15 years in nonprofit finance. Ensures every dollar creates maximum impact for children.
Robert Nguyen
Director of Volunteer Operations
Former AmeriCorps leader who has recruited and trained thousands of volunteers across the country.
Want to Be Part of
Our Story?
There are many ways to join the Star Kids family. Find the one that fits you.
Get Involved