Founding & History
The Ktone Cares Foundation (KCF) is the philanthropic entity set up by legendary Denver DJ Kamau Martinez aka DJ Ktone to giveback to the community that has given so much to him. For many years, Ktone has provided book award scholarships to graduating high school seniors via his annual Birthday Bash. To provide more opportunities to create, develop and present activities and events which will empower, inspire and uplift the community, KCF was established in May 2021. Our Mission Statement: Ktone Cares Foundation believes in valuing and respecting all community citizens, with an emphasis focusing on empowering children from marginalized populations by uplifting their voices through community engagement and collaboration. KCF’s goal is to build bridges connecting one community to another and driving cultural change by effectively working together to promote mental health awareness, education opportunities and civic engagement.
In 2021, KCF created and successfully presented “DJ Ktone’s Neighborhood Summer Pop-Up Block Party” held on the last Saturday in the months of June thru September (four altogether). The concept was to hold these events in neighborhoods impacted by youth violence and negative imagery by collaborating with other community organizations to build a bridge between communities. The activities included a party bus with a photo booth, local food and merchandise vendors, KidZone, specifically for little ones, with face painting and arts and crafts. We also had special guests who both entertained and informed the attendees on the importance of community collaboration and civic pride. Over 2500 people cumulatively attended the Summer Pop-Ups.
Another successful event was “Neighborhood FAFSA Pop Up Block Party” in collaboration with ECMC The College Place held on November 13, 2021. KCF and ECMC presented a FAFSA Fair for students of all ages and parents to get information and assistance on the application process. State colleges/universities and multiple community organizations presented resources along with financial scholarships and prize drawings were handed out.
Year-end 2021 we held a “Fly Sweater” Fundraiser and day party at local hotspot Agave Shore that provided food, fabulous music while helping to raise money for KCF to continue to provide events and programs in 2022!