Kenzi’s Causes Van Targeted Again: A Call for Community Support

A Denver area nonprofit, Kenzi’s Causes, has faced a troubling setback as its van was intentionally damaged for the second time in less than a year. Founded by Jessica Bachus in 2007 in memory of her stillborn daughter, Kenzi, the organization has been dedicated to bringing joy to underprivileged children across Colorado. The van, which is crucial for delivering toys and school supplies, has become a target for vandalism, raising concerns about the safety and sustainability of their operations.

Key Takeaways

Kenzi’s Causes van has been vandalized twice in under a year.
The organization delivers essential supplies to disadvantaged children.
Repair costs are expected to exceed $2,000, impacting holiday donations.
Community support is crucial for the nonprofit’s continued operations.

The Importance Of The Van

The van, adorned with a bear and the nonprofit’s logo, is more than just a vehicle; it serves as a lifeline for the organization. Jessica Bachus emphasized its significance, stating, "It truly is a lifeline for our organization and for our program." Over the years, the van has facilitated the delivery of thousands of toys, school supplies, and other essential items to children in need throughout the state.

Recent Incident

Last week, an employee took the van out for a delivery. Shortly after leaving, she noticed a strong smell of gas. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the gas line had been cut, marking the second time this has occurred while the van was parked in front of the organization’s building. The first incident resulted in repair costs exceeding $2,000, and Bachus anticipates similar expenses this time around.

Financial Impact

The financial burden of the repairs is particularly concerning as it diverts funds that would typically be allocated for holiday gifts. Bachus stated, "Every dollar truly makes a difference. We’re a very small staff, so we make sure our money goes back to our programming." With the van currently out of commission, the organization is appealing for donations to help cover the repair costs and continue its mission of spreading joy to Colorado’s children.

Community Support Needed

In light of the recent vandalism, Kenzi’s Causes is reaching out to the community for support. Bachus expressed hope that they could raise enough funds to repair the van without having to dip into their toy shop budget. "It would just be awesome if we could raise enough money to fix the van and not have to pull from our toy shop funds," she said.

Since the incident, the organization has already raised a few hundred dollars, but more support is needed to ensure they can continue their vital work.

Conclusion

The repeated targeting of Kenzi’s Causes’ van highlights the challenges faced by nonprofits in maintaining their operations. As the holiday season approaches, community support will be essential in helping this organization continue its mission of bringing joy to underprivileged children in Colorado. Donations can make a significant difference, ensuring that the van can be repaired and that the organization can continue its important work without interruption.