For our 12 Days of KKOOM, we’re sharing the voices of our volunteers and Board members. Their reflections remind us why community matters and how meaningful moments—big and small—can transform a child’s year.
We All Just Need Love: Jack's Story
What is your favorite holiday song?
“12 Days of Christmas”
What is the most meaningful gift you’ve ever received, and why?
A hand crocheted chestnut, because it was personal and came from someone I love.
What motivated you to give your time and energy to support KKOOM’s programs?
To make children happier.
What is your favorite memory from volunteering with KKOOM?
Watching them sing at a 노래방 (karaoke).
If you met the children in person, how has meeting them impacted your perspective on KKOOM’s work? If you haven’t, how do you think KKOOM’s work makes a direct impact on the children’s homes we serve?
They’ll be more confident in themselves and not associate their situation with negativity or being inferior.
What’s one thing you’ve learned through your volunteer experience?
That the children are like everyone else and just need love like everyone else.
What’s one of your favorite holiday traditions or memories?
Chopping down a tiny pine tree in the forest with my mom.
New Opportunities: Jun's Story
What is your favorite holiday song?
“Silent Night”
What is the most meaningful gift you’ve ever received, and why?
Soccer shoes, because I love soccer and I used them very well.
What motivated you to give your time and energy to support KKOOM’s programs?
I was looking for organizations to volunteer at and someone recommended KKOOM to me. Their mission was naturally what I was inclined to as a Korean who loves children!
What is your favorite memory from volunteering with KKOOM?
My favorite moments are when the kids are able to try new activities and really enjoy them. It is such a valuable experience that KKOOM provides so that these children can be exposed to more opportunities. I particularly remember playing American Football with the children in the summer and all of them told me that they have never played before. Two of them ended up really enjoying the sport and were wanting a football for his next present!
If you met the children in person, how has meeting them impacted your perspective on KKOOM’s work? If you haven’t, how do you think KKOOM’s work makes a direct impact on the children’s homes we serve?
KKOOM obviously does good in many levels, but I find much value in hosting events where the teachers can actually meet up with the students and spend time with them. To a growing child, the presence of a healthy adult is very beneficial, and I think KKOOM does an amazing job of creating pathways for that.
What’s one thing you’ve learned through your volunteer experience?
There are many people both in and outside of Korea that have a sincere heart for these children to have a protected and good experience growing up. I was so blessed to meet them and hear stories of how being involved in these children’s homes helped their lives greatly.
What’s one of your favorite holiday traditions or memories?
Opening Christmas gifts under the tree!