A New Year, a New KCT: Kids Coming Together Officially Becomes an Independent Nonprofit

A Mission Rooted in Community and Connection

For years, Kids Coming Together has fostered an environment of service and cooperation. Whether it’s by crafting cards or taking care of the environment, kids and teens can interact with the thriving, beautiful community that they are part of. Just as communities change and grow, so does KCT. With every invasive plant removed, with every pebble painted and every LEGO building created, we have expanded our involvement with the Eastside, staying true to our mission and bringing connection and joy to all.

And now, it’s time to take the next step in this expansion. Since July 1st, 2024, KCT has become a registered 501(c)(3) organization – an independent nonprofit.

From Humble Beginnings: The Founding of KCT

To understand what this means, we have to look at where KCT started. Our story began with Kimberly Freutel, who founded the organization in 2018. As the name suggests, KCT brought kids and teens together, spreading joy and understanding.

A Crucial Chapter: Our Time with the LWSF

Of course, no organization is without its challenges. A lack of infrastructure and issues with technology, as well as the need for more comprehensive insurance, were all difficulties that had to be overcome for KCT to progress. To solve these problems, Kids Coming Together transitioned to the Lake Washington Schools Foundation in 2019.

Any conversation about KCT’s beginnings must include the LWSF. Our organization as you know it would not have been possible without the Lake Washington Schools Foundation. Through insurance, funding, and a nonprofit status, the LWSF gave us the assistance and guidance we needed to prosper. For this, we are incredibly grateful to them.

Why Independence Matters for KCT’s Future

But as we’ve said, KCT is always growing. That’s why we transitioned away from the LWSF and became completely independent this July.

Being independent means we can operate outside the boundaries of the LWSF more easily, allowing us to efficiently adapt to the needs of the community.

Expanding Beyond Boundaries: Serving More of the Eastside

One big way we’ll be doing this is by expanding outside of LWSD. Right now, 30–40% of event attendees are from Issaquah or other school districts. With this change, we’ll be able to better support them. And with many events being held in areas like Issaquah, Bellevue, and the Snoqualmie Valley, kids and teens will be able to interact with a more diverse section of the Eastside community.

Guided by Passion: Leadership Behind the Transition

This transition has been headed by Deborah Carmichael (Executive Director of KCT) and Kristin Heffley (Youth Board Director at KCT). We received guidance from Laura Smith with Laura Smith Consulting and legal assistance from Monica Langfeldt with Langfeldt Law.

How You Can Get Involved and Support KCT

There are many ways that you can take part in this development. Community members can participate in fundraising initiatives and annual drives. Local businesses can support specific events throughout the year through our annual sponsorship packages and 1–month sponsorships. We also welcome all members of the community to reach out with ideas regarding partnerships and service projects.

A Thank You to Our Community

Kids Coming Together has had a long and meaningful journey. From the very beginning, our growth has been enriched by the community we’ve interacted with. We are here because of the kids and teens that pulled up invasive species with us, who joined us in painting rocks and birdhouses, who brought their creativity and friendship to our events. We are immensely thankful, not only for the organizations, but also for the people that have been with us every step of the way.

The Road Ahead: KCT’s Next Chapter

KCT’s journey as an independent nonprofit has just begun. We look forward to taking these next steps with you.