Nia Bonaparte, a senior at Cheltenham High School and a student in Eastern Center for Arts and Technology’s (EASTERN) Allied Health program, has been actively involved in running her family-operated non-profit organization, Kingdom Keepers Outreach Ministry (KKOM), since the age of 10. Founded in 2017, KKOM is dedicated to serving the Philadelphia community through acts of kindness and support for those in need. Twice a month, Nia, her parents, and a team of dedicated volunteers visit the Ben Franklin Parkway to distribute food and hygiene items to individuals facing hardship. During the winter months, they provide soups, stews, hot chocolate, and tea, while in the summer, they offer hamburgers, hot dogs, Gatorade, and water. Their consistent efforts, combined with Nia’s parents’ gift for cooking, have made a significant impact on the lives of many.
As the holiday season approaches, KKOM is preparing for its annual Christmas Day event, aiming to expand its outreach and bring joy and relief to even more people in need. This year, KKOM has partnered with local vendors to provide free blankets, clothing, hygiene items, and a festive holiday feast featuring turkey, mac and cheese, and collard greens. The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. on December 25, 2024.
Nia’s parents serve as the presidents of the organization. “I have been taught to treat others as we would want to be treated,” said Nia. “KKOM has given me a deeper sense of empathy. Helping others is a core part of who we are as a family. I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces when we can help—whether they are teenage parents, immigrants seeking refuge, or individuals experiencing tough times. They especially enjoy my mom’s cooking and sometimes even ask for her recipes!” Nia feels that KKOM gives her a profound sense of purpose. She shared that the organization has ambitious goals, including acquiring a portable shower, building tiny houses for the homeless, and helping individuals experiencing homelessness find employment.
Nia loves science and chose Allied Health at EASTERN to help her solidify her career goals as a Pediatric Neurosurgeon. She is also interested in cancer research. “I knew that enrolling in Allied Health would help me to make sure this was the field I wanted to enter,” said Nia. “Over the years, my career goals have changed, but they have always involved science.”
Nia cites her parents as her greatest source of inspiration. “They always encourage me to move forward,” said Nia. “My name means ‘purpose.’ My mom had a difficult childhood and worked hard to ensure I had the best opportunities. That’s why they chose the Cheltenham School District—for me to receive a good education and grow as a person. They have so much confidence in my dream of becoming a doctor, which I love. My dad calls me ‘Dr. Nia,’ and my mom even adds ‘MD’ after my name. I am also inspired by my church family. Knowing that I love to sketch, my pastors often ask me about my drawings, which motivates me to keep creating. I truly believe in the importance of balance—working hard while also setting aside time for yourself.”
Nia was recently accepted into Rutgers University but is still waiting to hear back from a few more colleges before making her final decision. Her plans and goals include becoming a neurosurgeon and establishing her own research lab. After retiring from neurosurgery, she hopes to teach and inspire the younger generation, helping them realize that they can achieve what once seemed impossible.
For more information on KKOM, please visit https://www.kingdomkeepersoutreach.org/.