When Todd Elementary’s K-Kids (Kiwanis) Club heard about a local teacher who lost his home in the Eaton Canyon wildfire earlier this year, they didn’t ask “Do we know him?” They asked “How can we help?”

The students raised more than $900 for Johnny Zakarian, a teacher at Centennial High School, after learning about the loss of his home in the Eaton Fire. What makes their act especially powerful is that none of the students had ever met him- they were moved purely by compassion.

Their efforts extended beyond school walls, as all fundraising activities took place off-campus and outside of the normal school hours.

“These fundraisers had to be done outside of the school day, requiring even more time and dedication from the teachers and students,” said Todd Elementary Principal, Amy Shainman.

The K-Kids Club, led by fourth grade teacher Elsa Salgado in partnership with Kiwanis and retiree George Corwin, raised funds for Mr. Zakarian by selling Valentines grams and hosting a bake sale during a local baseball league’s opening day. With their support, students spent their own free time coordinating fundraising efforts, proof that leadership can happen at any age.

Their donation to Mr. Zakarian was accompanied by handmade cards and artwork containing heartfelt messages of encouragement and support. This made the gesture especially meaningful to Mr. and Mrs. Zakarian.

“I was moved to tears, and when I shared everything with my wife later that day, she was emotional as well,” shared Mr. Zakarian.

This gesture shows the profound impact that even the youngest students can make in their community. Through service, empathy, and compassion, Todd Elementary’s K-Kids Club demonstrated how leadership and kindness can transcend school campuses and touch lives in meaningful ways.