Kids for the O is a nonprofit organization founded and run by young students in the Orlando area. Established in the summer of 2024, the organization has made a tangible impact on the lives of many families and children across the city. Founded by President Marley Kotroba, alongside the support of the executive board, the organization has grown to include over 40 active members who work together each day to make the Orlando community a better place.
Primarily, Kids for the O focuses on supporting underserved youth in Orlando by providing resources and opportunities that help level the playing field for children from less fortunate backgrounds.
Most notably, the organization hosted a festive toy drive in December 2024, raising over $7,000 to purchase presents for children during the holiday season. The team not only collected and distributed more than 1,000 toys, but also created a joyful, personalized experience for each family they served. Volunteers dressed as elves and helped children choose their gifts, filling the room with laughter and gratitude. In addition to toys, families received free haircuts, balloon art, Christmas dinners, and lively music. The event not only brought smiles to countless faces but also embodied the true spirit of giving—uniting the community through love and holiday cheer.
This past summer, the organization raised over $1,000 to assemble and distribute more than 150 school bags for underprivileged children in the Dominican Republic. Members of Kids for the O traveled there to hand-deliver the bags and spend time with local families. Through this mission experience, volunteers gained valuable perspective and gratitude while witnessing firsthand the positive impact of their work.
Kids for the O has touched the hearts of many—volunteers and families alike. The nonprofit provides Orlando teens with a platform to give back, channeling their energy and opportunities toward meaningful change. As the organization continues to grow in the coming years, it aims to expand its reach and deepen its impact, uplifting even more members of the community.
For more details and to follow their ongoing progress, visit www.kidsfortheo.org
Instagram: @kidsfortheo
By Isabella Noguera