[KKOOM] Christmas Gifts for 167 Korean Children

While KKOOM was founded in 2007, our roots began 20 years ago in 2004 with one goal in mind - to bring holiday cheer to vulnerable Korean children. 

Aimee Jachym, a Korean adoptee, was a Fulbright English Teacher in Gumi, South Korea, in 2004. Outside of her teaching duties, Aimee volunteered at the Samsungwon Children’s Home. Rallying her Fulbright friends to give back to the orphanage community, they raised $2,000 for the Christmas party in 2004. The traditions continued on, which is how KKOOM was created in 2007 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. 

Now, KKOOM raises about $10,000 every year to bring Christmas cheer to three children’s homes and provide gifts to approximately 150 children. KKOOM gives each child a gift from their wish list, an amount totaling up to $40. For some of the children, this is the only Christmas gift they receive during the holiday season. Not only providing gifts, we also provide Christmas meals, host talent shows and parties for the children to participate in traditional holiday activities, like “pin the nose on reindeer,” decorate holiday cookies, or to take a photo with Santa. 

Our history is rooted in making sure children in Korea’s social welfare system know how deeply loved they are. Keeping this tradition alive, we have provided over 1,350 Christmas gifts to hundreds of children since 2004. “Good memories is the most precious gift, anyone can gift you.” With this quote in mind, KKOOM will continue providing positive memories that will last a lifetime. 

If you would like to learn more about KKOOM’s Holiday Campaign that starts on GivingTuesday every year, we encourage you to sign up for KKOOM emails at www.kkoom.org to get our monthly newsletters. Stay tuned on how you can be a part of Celebrating 20 Years of KKOOM Holiday Cheer this November and December!