About Us
Our Mission
vision statement
vision statement
Kira’s Grace Foundation exists to empower and connect parents of children and adults with disabilities in South Central Pennsylvania by offering peer-led support, trusted resources, direct funding for essential needs, and a compassionate network that understands the journey firsthand.
vision statement
vision statement
vision statement
We envision a thriving, inclusive community where every family of a child or adult with a disability is supported, informed, and never alone. Through connection, compassion, and advocacy, we aim to bridge gaps and build lasting change for generations to come.
core values
vision statement
core values
Compassion: We understand the unique challenges families face and respond with empathy, care, and understanding.
Connection: We foster meaningful relationships between parents, caregivers, and community partners to build a strong support network.
Advocacy: We uplift the voices of families and work to remove barriers to care, inclusi
Compassion: We understand the unique challenges families face and respond with empathy, care, and understanding.
Connection: We foster meaningful relationships between parents, caregivers, and community partners to build a strong support network.
Advocacy: We uplift the voices of families and work to remove barriers to care, inclusion, and opportunity.
Equity: We believe every family deserves access to the support, information, and resources they need, regardless of circumstance.
Integrity: We are committed to transparency, accountability, and honoring the lived experiences of those we serve.
Meet the Board
Amanda west~founder & board chair
Amanda launched Kira's Grace Foundation to honor her daughter's legacy and to ensure families facing disability and medical challenges never feel alone. Her passion lies in building compassionate community connections, practical support systems, and real change for families in South Central PA.
dale welk jr~board vice-chair
As Vice Chair of Kira's Grace Foundation and proud father to Kira, Dale brings strength, compassion, and a deep committment to honoring her legacy. His role helps guide the foundation's mission with integrity, purpose, and a father's heart for supporting families.
BARBARA WISSINGER- treasurer
Barbara “Barb” Wissinger serves as Treasurer of Kira’s Grace Foundation and brings both professional experience and a deeply personal connection to the mission. Barb was a former nurse to Kira, giving her firsthand insight into the medical, emotional, and day-to-day realities faced by children with complex needs and the families who care for them. As Treasurer, she oversees the Foundation’s financial stewardship, helping ensure transparency, accountability, and responsible use of funds so that support reaches families where it is needed most.
board secretary - Vacant
Kira’s Grace Foundation is currently seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to serve as Board Secretary. This volunteer leadership role supports the organization by maintaining accurate records, documenting board meetings, assisting with governance and compliance, and helping ensure clear communication among board members. The Board Secretary plays an essential role in keeping the Foundation organized, transparent, and moving forward in service to families of children and adults with disabilities.
If you are organized, reliable, and passionate about supporting our mission, we would love to hear from you.
carie matz, bsn, rn, cpn ~ board clinical director
Carie brings both heart and expertise to her role as Board Clinical Director for Kira's Grace Foundation. A longtime supporter of Kira's journey, Carie has dedicated her nursing career to caring for children with terminal illnesses and children with special needs. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UCLA and is a Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN), currently working closely with medically complex and special needs children. Her compassionate leadership and clinical insight help guide our programs and ensure we stay grounded in the real needs of the families we serve.
kylan burden-west ~board marketing director
Kylan serves as the Board Marketing Director for Kira's Grace Foundation and is proud to carry on the legacy of his sister Kira. Currently pursuing his bachelor's degree in Marketing, Kylan brings creative vision, fresh ideas, and a deep personal commitment to the foundation's mission. As the father of a child with special needs, Kylan brings a personal understanding of the challenges families face and uses his voice to advocate for greater support and inclusion. He leads our digital outreach and marketing efforts with passion and purpose, helping connect families to the resources and community they deserve.
for kira, with love
Kira's Grace Foundation was created in loving memory of Kira Grace, who was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta and lived with many medical complexities. Kira taught us how to advocate fiercely, love deeply, and never stop seeking answers. Her life continues to inspire our mission to uplift other families walking similar paths ~ so no one ever has to feel alone in this journey.
Make a Difference Today💜
Your gift helps children and families with disabilities in South Central Pennsylvania get the support they need. 100% of donations go directly into programs and services.