Ninos Matter About

About Us

Niños Matter, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, is dedicated to creating a legacy of lasting change. Our mission is to inspire and uplift children, unlock their potential, and pave pathways toward a brighter future. Through impactful projects and unwavering support, we equip children worldwide with the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive and uplift their communities.

OUR VALUES

Education

We believe that education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. We provide educational resources and tutoring programs to ensure that children have equal access to quality education. We also work closely with schools and educators to identify and address the unique needs of each child.

Connection

We believe in the importance of connection as a foundation for growth and resilience. By investing time in building relationships and supporting one another, we foster a nurturing environment where every child feels valued and empowered to pursue their dreams.

Empowerment

We believe in the transformative power of play and creative expression to foster confidence and empower children to grow. Through diverse activities and opportunities, we cultivate an environment where every child can discover their unique talents, build self-esteem, and develop essential life skills.

Our Story

On a family trip to the Dominican Republic in 2014, the founders of Niños Matter were inspired to make a difference. They brought a small but heartfelt gift—suitcases full of hair bows—to share with the children at a local orphanage. Witnessing the joy in each child’s face, they felt a powerful drive to do more than just provide a single moment of happiness. Seeing their needs firsthand, they became committed to helping these children achieve self-sufficiency and lasting growth. And so, Niños Matter was officially born, dedicated to supporting children in reaching their full potential.

Meet our visionaries

Misty Kirby combines her passion for creativity with a deep commitment to helping children through Niños Matter. With a vision rooted in uplifting youth, she believes in the transformative power of support and kindness. Her leadership inspires others to engage in meaningful ways, fostering a brighter future for all children. For Misty, it’s not just about beautifying the world; it's about creating lasting change in the lives of those who need it most.

Misty Kirby

Trent Kirby is an inspirational leader who embraces the endless possibilities of tomorrow. He is dedicated to challenging the status quo and reimagining what is possible for children and their futures. With a commitment to identifying true needs, Trent strives to transform lives and create impactful change through his work with Niños Matter. His passion for empowering youth drives him to envision a world where every child can thrive.

Trent Kirby

Embracing her inner teacher, Chani Reeve recognizes the value in every lesson life offers. Whether facing inconveniences or significant challenges, she inspires those around her to realize that their greatest resource is their own passion and resilience. Through her guidance, Chani fosters an environment where empowerment and personal growth thrive, reminding everyone that they possess the tools needed for transformative change.

Chani Reeve

A man of thoughtful intentions, Ryan Reeve is dedicated to turning plans into action. With a keen eye for detail, he ensures that nothing slips through the cracks, focusing on what truly matters for the children. His technical expertise and commitment to encouragement empower each child, fostering an environment where they can thrive. Ryan’s efforts are driven by a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in their lives.

Ryan Reeve

A leader in the technology sector for over 15 years, Jared Spataro has spent his career shaping the future of AI—helping organizations innovate, grow, and solve complex challenges. After visiting orphanages in the Dominican Republic, he saw the dreams of the children firsthand and felt called to do more. Guided by his faith, family, and belief in the power of community, Jared is committed to building a future where every child has the chance to succeed. His leadership reflects his mission: to transform lives, break cycles of poverty, and inspire hope—one child at a time.

Jared Spataro

As a dedicated architect, Shawn Patten has always been passionate about building more than just structures—he is committed to building brighter futures. After visiting the Dominican Republic and directly contributing to essential projects, he felt a calling to make a lasting impact. With years of experience designing and implementing projects that serve communities, Shawn's vision is to provide nurturing environments where children can learn and thrive; and through Niños Matter, he is dedicated to making that belief a reality.

Shawn Patten