The Blended Family Foundation supports students, families, and communities by combining practical resources with skills that strengthen emotional wellness, decision-making, and personal responsibility.

Our Mission

In 2016, our son Kalen passed away after being hit by a car while crossing the street to catch his school bus. Despite our heartache, we remained faithful and drew inspiration from Kalen's own words, which ultimately became the driving force behind the Blended Family Foundation.

Our Services

The Blended Family Foundation supports students, families, and communities by combining practical resources with skills that strengthen emotional wellness, decision-making, and personal responsibility.

School-Based Emergency Closets

We create and maintain emergency closets in Polk County schools to ensure students have immediate access to essential resources when unexpected needs arise. These closets remove barriers that can interfere with learning and well-being.

Impact

  • Reduced stress and distraction

  • Improved attendance and focus

  • Dignified, confidential support

Personal Authority Education – Students

Our student programs teach emotional awareness, stress regulation, and responsible decision-making. Students learn how emotions influence behavior and how to respond thoughtfully to everyday challenges.

Students Gain

  • Better emotional regulation

  • Stronger decision-making skills

  • Increased confidence and accountability

  • Fewer behavioral disruptions

Personal Authority Education – Families

We offer workshops for individuals and groups that focus on effective communication, boundaries, and leadership within the home. These sessions support stability and consistency for both adults and children.

Families Gain

  • Improved communication

  • Reduced emotional reactivity

  • Clearer boundaries

  • Stronger family relationships

Educator & Staff Support

Professional development sessions equip educators with practical tools for managing stress, supporting the student and the teacher, and maintaining calm, consistent environments.

Educators Gain

  • Effective de-escalation strategies

  • Improved classroom climate

  • Reduced burnout

  • Increased confidence

Community Workshops

We partner with community organizations to deliver workshops that promote emotional wellness and responsible decision-making.

Communities Gain

  • Stronger resilience

  • Healthier relationships

  • Increased stability and engagement

Educator & Staff Support

Professional development sessions equip educators with practical tools for managing stress, supporting the student and the teacher, and maintaining calm, consistent environments.

Educators Gain

  • Effective de-escalation strategies

  • Improved classroom climate

  • Reduced burnout

  • Increased confidence

Community Workshops

We partner with community organizations to deliver workshops that promote emotional wellness and responsible decision-making.

Communities Gain

  • Stronger resilience

  • Healthier relationships

  • Increased stability and engagement

As part of our mission to uplift and empower families, the Blended Family Foundation hosts two annual fundraisers in Lakeland: the Sneakers Ball and the Swan City Jazz Festival. These events bring together members of the community and raise funds for our outreach programs, allowing us to continue making a positive impact on the lives of families in need.

We are honored to carry on Kalen's legacy and help others in his memory. Thank you for supporting our cause and joining us in our mission to strengthen families.

OUR WHY

UPCOMING BFF EVENTS