A Pokémon Day Close to Our Hearts: Kayven’s Helping Hands in Derby

A Pokémon Day Close to Our Hearts: Kayven’s Helping Hands in Derby

I had so much fun joining the Pokémon tournament at Arena Hobby in Derby on September 20. I love Pokémon—I have more than 200 Pikachu plushies, lol—so getting to spend the day around other Pokémon fans was right up my alley. I was happy to be there with my friend Kassi Roberts of Opulent Events & Designs, and Derby Nutrition made the day even more fun with a special Pokémon drink menu.

   

But this event also gave me the chance to learn more about an organization that’s close to our hearts at Jupiter House: Kayven’s Helping Hands Foundation.

Keeping Kayven’s Spirit of Adventure Alive

Kayven’s Helping Hands was founded by Kayven’s parents, Kacey and Steven Hopper, to honor their son’s life and legacy. Kayven loved exploring, reading, making music, practicing martial arts, and spending time outside with friends. He approached life with curiosity and a big sense of adventure.


After Kayven died following a battle with epilepsy on November 30, 2023, his family turned their love for him into a way to help other children and families. While navigating Kayven’s diagnosis and care, they saw how hard it could be to find local resources and support. They wanted other families to have more help along the way.

Today, the foundation helps make adventures possible through three areas of work:

  • Literacy: Sharing the joy of reading and helping children access books, including through the Little Free Library.

  • Enrichment: Helping children take part in camps, clubs, and activities that support curiosity, creativity, and growth.

  • Epilepsy support: Connecting people with epilepsy and their caregivers to resources, education, and support, especially in central and rural Kansas.

Join Us in Supporting Kayven’s Helping Hands

I’m grateful I got to be part of such a fun day—and even more grateful for the chance to share Kayven’s story. His family has created something meaningful out of love and the hope that other families will feel supported.

If Kayven’s Helping Hands’ mission speaks to you, reach out to the foundation to ask about current volunteer opportunities or ways to support its programs. There are so many ways to help make a child’s next adventure possible.


At Jupiter House, we love this organization, and we’re excited to do more with Kayven’s Helping Hands! 

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