Brave Like Me Foundation

Through our unique array of child-centered programs and services, we create moments of uninhibited joy. Whether those moments occur with a group of close-knit friends, snuggling a beloved pet, or uplifting children throughout our communities, Brave Like Me provides safe, supportive and accessible experiences for every child we serve. Our current programs are housed under our three main experiences: 1. Our Brave Friends programs provide joy-inducing, life-changing mini adventures designed around children and teens impacted by Complex Medical Conditions. 2. For children and teens experiencing extended hospital stays, being separated from their pet is especially difficult. Though there are nearly 200 children’s hospitals nationwide, only a handful possess dedicated family pet centers, where family pets can reunite safely with a hospitalized child. We are working to change that, starting with our concept for a mobile center called the Family Pet Reunion Center. 3. Our commitment to uplifting kids and creating moments of uninhibited joy spreads throughout our communities with our Brave Schools programs. Inspired by Brayden Otten’s enthusiasm and love for reading and learning, our Brayden’s Books initiative is a specially-curated collection of books that offer lessons in integrity, perseverance, curiosity and courage.

Our Foundation is in memory of Brayden Otten, who died at the age of 13 in 2022 from complications after cardiac surgery. His family and community have rallied to create the Brave Like Me Foundation in memory of Brayden. We support children with complex medical histories and offer them adventures such as rock climbing and Reds outings. We offer pet visits with hospitalized children who miss their home pets. We also offer books and other opportunities to school aged children in underserved communities. All these activities require volunteers and are ideal for the college student who wants to build relationships while serving a great cause on so many levels.