The Kids First Initiative (KFI) was created out of necessity, after Richard Bell was teaching and coaching at Abraham Lincoln Middle School. KFI was founded in 2006 when Richard Bell and other teaching staff members realized there were students without coats and warm clothing to withstand the brutal Michigan winters. Mr. Bell and the coaching staff would donate their own personal coats and other warm clothes to those students in need.  Mr. Bell took it a step further, by purchasing coats for a group of students.  After receiving an abundance of positive feedback, Mr. Bell started to think of solutions to help the underserved kids in his community.  

 

As a result of his passion, to change the lives of the underserved youth, KFI was born with the focus of  “Always Putting Kids First.” The organization has evolved from being a grassroots effort, to viable pillar in the communities, in which it serves.  

 

KFI is laser-focused on ensuring that student participants that embrace the various programs, are on track to secure employment opportunities within their chosen career path. Since KFI’s inception, many have been served.  

 

Our impact has been felt across many communities, which consist of 3 countries, 1 U.S. Territory, 21 states, and 35 cities, and we are just getting started!