MEET OUR FOUNDER

James Rice-Peña

From Foster Care to Building a Mission for Children

JAMES RICE-PEÑA

Founder and President of Unbreakable Kids

James Rice-Peña entered the foster care system at a young age after losing his biological mother to drugs and experiencing the effects of his father’s alcoholism. After being separated from his biological sister, they were eventually reunited and adopted into the same household.

James graduated from high school, moved out at 17, and has supported himself ever since. His experiences with foster care, separation, survival, and early independence became the foundation for Unbreakable Kids.

Why I Founded

Unbreakable Kids

This is my story, what shaped me, and why this mission is personal

MORE THAN SURVIVAL

James understands what it means to grow up believing that survival is your responsibility. Unbreakable Kids was created so children facing difficult circumstances can receive more than the bare minimum.

The organization helps provide essential resources, school supplies, hygiene products, community experiences, educational support, encouragement, and meaningful connections.

Being in foster care is something that happened to a child. It is not their identity, and it should never become their label.

EssentiaL Resources

A backpack matters, but so does reminding a child that they are capable

Dignity & Support

A hygiene kit matters, but so does protecting a child’s dignity.

Meaningful

EXPERIENCES

A community event matters, but so does creating a place where children feel welcomed, included, and seen

"Being unbreakable does not mean that nothing ever hurts you. It means that what happened to you does not get to decide who you become."

— James Rice-Peña

Founder

STAND WITH UNBREAKABLE KIDS

If James’ story speaks to you, we invite you to become part of what Unbreakable Kids is building.

You can volunteer your time, partner with our organization, sponsor a program, share our mission, or make a donation.

Together, we can help children receive more than essential supplies. We can give them meaningful experiences, encouragement, and the reminder that their circumstances do not determine their future.