In this episode, Erika Ahdoot, CEO of Horton’s Kids, and Rahaman “Kil” Kilpatrick, Senior Manager of Community and Family Engagement, discuss the incredible work of supporting children and families in Washington, D.C.’s Anacostia neighborhood. From pre-K through high school graduation and beyond, Horton’s Kids is committed to building trust, fostering mentorship, and creating safe spaces for kids to thrive.
Erika and Kil talk about the challenges of working in communities that have faced systemic neglect and the importance of long-term, trust-based relationships. They share powerful stories of resilience, like one young man’s journey from overcoming adversity to preparing for a future in the Marines. Kil reflects on his 12 years with the organization, emphasizing that even when an interaction doesn’t yield immediate impact, each plants seeds for the future.
Horton’s Kids is also expanding with new community resource centers that provide essential services like food and diapers alongside their educational programs. In addition, they’ve launched their own podcasts, including HK Couch, HK Confessions (a teen-led podcast), and Surface Noise, which are sparking important conversations within the community.
Join us for this conversation that highlights the power of love, trust, and commitment. Learn how long-term engagement can change lives. Don’t forget to share these powerful stories, as the impact of this work echoes for years to come.
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can watch the Horton’s Kids episode on our YouTube Channel here.
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